Plant a food garden inspired by travel

Do you have a green thumb AND the travel bug? Why not give your garden a passport? Plant a garden inspired by popular vacation spots. Here are some destination-specific plants you should consider. Mix and match as you wish, just make sure that the plants you select will thrive in the climate in which you live. (Check this zone map to find your area)

9 Ways to Plant a Garden Inspired by Travel

China – Meyer Lemon

Think lemon that’s less acidic and sweeter. You could eat it raw, actually! It’s a sun worshiper and can thrive in the ground for YEARS. Alternatively, grow it in a pot, if in a less than ideal (cold, windy) climate or space is limited. Originally native to China, nowadays, many types of citrus is also grown throughout Europe for decorative and culinary purposes – think Lemoncello in Italy! 🍋).

Africa – Blue Basil

 Not the traditional basil you might think of – the kind that would go with the tomatoes. Its life span is longer, it’s prettier and edible. It will appear as a perennial if there’s no exposure to frost.

China – Rhubarb

The stalks are the bounty and are typically put in desserts. It’s a slow grower and harvested in the spring. But it’s a long game here. A season without harvest is encouraged the first year so the plant has time to establish. Sunny is ideal, but not too hot! A partially shaded patch might be perfect!

France – Thyme

A culinary herb with over 800 varieties, this plant grows easily and will likely return each spring! One of the main ingredients is the popular Herbs de Provence blend. My personal favorite is Lemon-Tyme.

England – Lavender

It sure looks pretty and smells divine. Bloom will take place between June and August, depending on where you are in the US. Cut a spring for a bouquet, as it’s this variety that’ll thrive in that state.

Italy – Cucurbita

Also known as Italian squash, there are two varieties – winter and summer (zucchini and zucca). A yummy addition to any garden, give these plants room to spread out and allow the fruit to hang. And don’t forget the blossoms are edible too!

India – Cucumbers

Who knew cucumbers are native to India? They need space for the plant to spread, horizontally or vertically and sun is key. Growth is quick and harvested as early as 50 days after planting.

England – Roses

Quintessential across the pond, and available all over the USA. Enjoy their beauty in many ways – planted in the ground, planted in a container, and the array of colors is endless. But, beware, these beauties grow quickly! Candy the petals with sugar and you have a quick and elegant decoration for desserts.

Italy – San Marzano Tomatoes

Seeds are easy to find and grow at home. Summer and sunshine help them thrive, as long as the exposure is constant. Be sure to freeze or can extra tomatoes for a fresh taste of summer in the cold winter months.

So why not plant a garden inspired by travel? Are you up for the challenge? Let me know which plants above would be included! There are plenty missing from this list as well, so let me know what you’d add!

Ready to see the destinations that inspired this global garden? I’d love to help you plan the perfect vacation (garden visits and food markets included). Just send me a quick email to jennifer@gourmetadventurestravel.com or set up a free quick chat to talk about your travel wishlist CLICK HERE.