Plant a Native Food Forest - Here’s How!
A native food forest is a win-win for you and the environment! By combining native plants with food-producing species, you can create a thriving ecosystem that feeds your family while supporting local wildlife. And guess what? Bare root trees and shrubs are the perfect foundation for your forest garden. They’re cost-effective, easy to plant, and adapt quickly to their new home. Let's dive in which food forest plants to use.
Why Bare Roots for Your Food Forest Plants?
Bare root plants are dormant, which means they establish faster, have less transplant shock, and are easier to transport and plant. Plus, they’re more affordable and eco-friendly, reducing waste and packaging.
Step-by-Step: Start Your Food Forest
-
Plan Your Layers
- A food forest has multiple layers: canopy, understory, shrubs, herbaceous plants, groundcovers, vines, and root crops. Choose species that provide food for you and habitat for pollinators and other beneficial wildlife.
-
Select Your Plants
- Start with keystone species. For example, fruit and nut trees form the canopy, while nitrogen-fixing shrubs improve soil health.
-
Prep Your Soil
- Add organic amendments, compost, or mulch to ensure your plants have a nutrient-rich foundation.
-
Plant Your Bare Roots
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the roots but no deeper than their length. Spread the roots, backfill with soil, and water deeply.
-
Care & Maintain
- Mulch around your plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Water regularly until they’re established.
Native Bare Roots We Offer
Here at The Farm Connection, we’ve curated an amazing selection of bare root trees and shrubs, perfect for your food forest.
- Bare Root Fruit Trees – Apples, pears, and plums that are suited to our region and thrive when planted alongside native companions.
- Bare Root Shrubs – Blueberries, elderberries, and serviceberries to attract pollinators and provide delicious harvests.
- Bare Root Nut Trees – Add diversity with hazelnuts or chestnuts—great for wildlife and your pantry.
👉 Explore Our Bare Root Collection Here!
Creating a native food forest is a beautiful way to reconnect with nature, grow your own food, and give back to the ecosystem with environmentally friendly gardening. Let us help you make it happen with high-quality bare root plants and expert advice! 🌱