Growing vegetables in layers just as nature intended is called Forest gardening.

It’s also a clever way to add more veggies, salads, herbs and fruit to any size plot by growing a diverse range of fruit, flowers, leaves and seeds to create a natural landscape, which looks appealing and suits you and your family.

Using small trees, shrubs, herbaceous perennials and climbing vines will add interest and variety covering every available space with maximum potential.

It is possible to create a similar effect with containers by either planting different layers in one large pot or using separate pots, grouping them together at varying heights, ideal for a balcony.

Growing mostly perennial crops and planting in layers will keep the soil covered and undisturbed , avoiding any digging which causes weeds to germinate. The key to retaining moisture is to reduce soil disturbance, allowing organic matter, like leaves and roots, to decompose, to be mixed into the soil by worms creating organic matter which holds moisture during drought.

Ideally there are 7 plant forms that create a layered forest garden, the choice of plants can be whatever suits personal taste. Try experimenting with different varieties keeping to the basic plant forms.