Drive one hour away from Melbourne and discover an Edible Forest, filled with over 300 species of plants, herbs, flowers, trees and shrubs. In this one acre forest, everything is either medicinal or edible. The garden is split into six areas, focusing on categories like tea, bush tucker, edible flowers and more. You’ll find the Edible Forest located on the grounds of Yarra Valley Estate.
Edible Forest
This tranquil space first began in 2015 when Louise Ward, owner of Yarra Valley Estate, wanted to grow seasonal vegetables to use in the menus for functions held on-site, such as weddings. But soon after, the veggie garden wasn’t enough to sustain the needs of the estate, and it grew into the Edible Forest that you can visit today.
Taste your way through the netted garden by joining a Tour, Taste and Educate experience. Roam through the forest and learn all about the health benefits of the edible and medicinal plants. This tour takes about 45 minutes, and you can taste as you go. This particular tour is currently available at 2pm on Fridays, but you can also arrange an appointment for a private tour.
Feeling inspired to try this at home? Pop by the nursery after the tour and find your own plants to begin your edible gardening journey. The nursery also has a range of preserves made from the garden harvest, as well as sustainable products and worm ‘tea’ fertilising liquid.
You’re also welcome to pre-order a picnic lunch hamper, so you can graze on something delicious on the 120-acre estate.
This Edible Garden is perfect for day trips, but if you’re keen to stay a little longer and explore the area, Yarra Valley Estate also has accommodation.