The Multilayer Garden 

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Plant Hardiness and
Seed Treatment Information

Our nursery species are categorized by their physical niche within a temperate forest ecosystem. The forest ecosystem can be divided into seven layers. A forest garden takes advantage of each of these layers. When planted appropriately, a forest garden allows for a greater density of resources and a largely self-maintained and healthy ecosystem.

The Upper Canopy includes both pioneer and slow-growth species.  The fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing, pioneer species quickly dominate the upper canopy while providing soil fertility, water retention, wildlife habitat, and eventually timber. The slow-growth species include a variety of late-succession nut and timber trees.

The Lower Canopy includes fruit trees and nectary species ideal for bee-keeping. Many of these species are also long-term timber resources and provide excellent wildlife habitat.

The Vertical Layer includes many food-bearing species. However, these vigorous climbing plants can negatively impact the growth and yield of other species. Therefore, additional care must be taken when designing the vertical layer of a forest ecosystem.

The Shrub Layer features shade-tolerant species with edible berries and fruits. These plants also provide a valuable source of biomass which helps to maintain soil fertility.

The Herb Layer is most abundant in the early stages of succession. They provide many edible and medicinal resources for humans, while providing rich habitat for pollinators and pest predators.

The Ground Cover species protect the soil from erosion and reduce the need for mulch as a forest garden develops. Many of these plants provide edible and medicinal resources.

The Rhizome Layer provides an excellent source of nutritious, winter foods. Many of these plants penetrate the subsoil in search of minerals, nutrients, and water which enriches the soil for plants with less vigorous rooting systems. Fungi are also included in this layer and play a critical role decomposing and recycling nutrients within the forest ecosystem.