Not ready to plow under the yard for an edible landscape? Try a CSA

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Vicki and Chris Hertel are part owners of Sun Gold Farm near Forest Grove. The fifth-generation family farm has recently switched from dairy to vegetables and share the wealth with others through Community Supported Agriculture subscriptions. (Dean Baker/Hillsboro Argus)

There has been quite a bit of attention given to edible landscaping in the past decade. The term generally refers to homeowners (and sometimes municipalities) choosing to plant shrubs, annuals and perennials based on the plant providing some type of caloric benefit.

Walking through the neighborhoods of western Washington County, signs of edible landscaping are visible nearly everywhere, and often the edible components clearly pre-date the trend. Fruit trees, blueberries and other cane berries, and well-tended garden plots are abundant.

Still, many homeowners dont have the space, time or desire to turn under the flowers for the kale and carrots. There are, however, an abundance of small farmers in the area able and willing to share the abundance of their labors with the neighbors. A relatively small fee, usually paid at the beginning of the season to the farmer, will provide a family with fresh, seasonal produce throughout the summer and into the fall.

Its called Community Supported Agriculture. And here are a few farms practicing it in this region:

Banks/Buxton

Dairy Creek Farm & Produce

23295 NW Highway 47

Buxton

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Not ready to plow under the yard for an edible landscape? Try a CSA