Let this sampling of ideas from the book inspire you tothink beyond the vegetable bed.

Launch a Fruitful Endeavor

This stunningly landscaped backyard bears a sweet secretit’s full of fruit to harvest.

Around the stepping stones, he also snuck in herbs like thyme, marjoram, and oregano.

Christian Douglass Vegetable Garden

Credit:Sasha Gulish

Frame a Patio

Entertaining space or edible garden?

You don’t actually have to choose, as this small suburban backyard proves.

Douglas frameda lounge area on the patiowith raised beds full of herbs, plus anespalier lemon-and-lime hedge.

Christian Douglass backyard with guest house

Credit:Sasha Gulish

Step It Up

“We’re always looking forways to blend hardscapeedibles,” writes Douglas.

Douglas encourages new gardeners to start small.

Patio with lounge area and raised beds

Credit:Sasha Gulish

Steps planted with culinary herbs

Credit:Sasha Gulish

Kids running by raised beds and pool

Credit:Sasha Gulish

Raised beds with seating area

Credit:Sasha Gulish

Herb containers on outdoor table

Credit:Sasha Gulish

Christian Douglass raised beds by pergola

Credit:Sasha Gulish