The idea of a food forest, an edible forest garden, is becoming increasingly popular, not least because of its ecological benefits and the sustainable food production it enables. For those who want to delve deeper into this fascinating topic, there is plenty of literature out there that offers valuable insights and practical tips. In this blog post, we present four books that will help you expand your knowledge of food forests, agroforestry and edible plants.
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“Creating a Forest Garden” by Martin Crawford
Martin Crawford is a pioneer in the field of forest gardens. In his book ‘Creating a Forest Garden, working with nature to grow edible crops’ he introduces the reader to the art and science of forest gardening. The book contains a comprehensive guide to planning, planting and maintaining a forest garden. It shows how to create a sustainable and productive environment by taking advantage of perennial plants and a multi-layered arrangement of vegetation. Crawford emphasises biodiversity and the natural symbiosis between plant species.
The German edition ‘Einen Waldgarten erschaffen. Mit der Natur arbeien, um essbare Pflanzen anzubauen´, was translated by Jörn Müller.
“Dynamischer Agroforst: Fruchtbare Böden, gesunde Umwelt, reiche Ernte” by Noemi Stadler-Kaulich
In her book ‘Dynamic Agroforestry’, Noemi Stadler-Kaulich presents a similar approach to syntropic agroforestry. The book is a good guide for anyone interested in combining agriculture and forestry. It provides detailed information on restoring fertile soils and clearly explains how dynamic agroforestry systems can promote a rich harvest. Stadler-Kaulich shows how these systems can not only increase yields but also regenerate the environment.
“Restoration Agriculture” by Mark Shepard
Mark Shepard’s ‘Restoration Agriculture’ combines the principles of permaculture with the requirements of modern agriculture. Shepard shows how agriculture can be practised without disturbing or exploiting the natural environment. The book also discusses how agricultural practices can be implemented that are both environmentally friendly and economically viable. Shepard backs up his arguments with practical examples and case studies that inspire thought and action. The aim of the book is not only to eliminate bad practices, but also to develop good practices. This is to be achieved by recognising and producing more staple foods, i.e. foods with a high calorie, carbohydrate, protein and oil content, such as rice, maize and lentils. Nutrition and good food are important! To summarise, this book is about: Staple foods, sustainable and ecological systems that do not harm the environment, soil building and all independent of fossil fuels.
“Essbare Wildpflanzen” by Steffen Guido Fleischhauer und Kollegen
If you want to find out more about the plants that can also grow in a food forest, the book ‘Edible Wild Plants’ by Steffen Guido Fleischhauer and co-authors is an excellent source. The book lists the 200 most important edible wild plants that occur in Central European latitudes and are suitable for human consumption. A must for anyone who wants to utilise nature’s valuable resources without endangering the balance of ecosystems.
