Second to May, June is a fine month for flowers in the woods and garden. Now that we are finally done tiptoeing through the tulips, let’s dive into the iris; a plant that comes in many shapes, colors and sizes and is not only native to our region, but to many other parts of the world.

In the Muslim world, it was the symbol of grief and was planted in and around grave sites. In French art, the white iris represented virginity. For centuries, it was part of England’s royal emblem. Native Americans used iris as a food, a pharmaceutical, and a perfume.

Iris flowers are loaded with pollen and are a favorite this time of year for honey bees and other pollinating insects. One outstanding native iris to our region is Iris cristata or Crested Iris. This small iris makes a beautiful ground cover type plant that comes in white and shades of lavender. This plant prefers shady, wet, rather than sunny, dry, conditions. Iris verna ,a Dwarf Violet Iris or Vernal Iris, is a small. clear lavender-blue native iris that tolerates sunnier and drier conditions; a must for the perennial border. Iris versicolor or Northern Flag Iris is a tall, blue-violet to purple flower. This plant thrives in shallow standing water and is great for marshy areas, pond edges and wetter than drier spots in the garden.

June is also a time for strawberries; one of my favorite fruits. I use strawberries as a ground cover in my garden which is one example of the many changes I’m making in my garden this year. By removing unwanted plants and replacing them with edible alternatives, we create gardens with dual functions.

Edible landscapes are becoming popular and a definite trend. It was only a generation ago that our grandparents and great-grandparents ventured into the yard for dinner. Herbs, vegetables, and fruits were picked daily. Today, as food prices continue to rise, the economy continues to flounder, and costs to maintain our lawns and landscapes escalate, we should begin to use the land surrounding our homes as an extension to our pantry. Rather than planting a Calary Pear for flower only, consider planting a McIntosh Apple for flower and fruit.

Designing an edible landscape around our home is not much different than planting a traditional landscape. An edible landscape combines fruit and nut producing trees, berry bushes, herbs, and vegetables to take the place of ornamental trees, shrubs and perennials.

There are many different directions to go with an edible landscape. Next time, I’ll detail a wide variety of edible plants and how to get started. For now, let your nose guide your next walk.