Self-seeding edible annuals

Jaimie Sweetman is Head Gardener of the Edible Forest located on the Yarra Valley Estate in Dixons Creek. There are regular tours of the Edible Forest, often led by Jaimie – read more and book your place on a future tour.

In the Edible Forest, we have many self-seeding plants, each with its own purpose. They include:

• Angelica (beneficial bugs, clay breaker and medicinal).
• Calendula (medicinal).
• Corn flowers (for tea).
• Nigella (edible seeds).
• Perennial sweet peas.
• Violas (edible flowers).
• Yam daisies (edible tubers).

Some we have only started with one plant and over the years this has multiplied to as many as we want.

None of these plants are hard to remove.

Also, letting plants self seed means the garden is always looking different. While it’s not for some as it creates a more wild aesthetic, it certainly makes gardening easier. And it’s a way to work with nature instead of against it.