The Seven Layers of a Food Forest: Create a Thriving Backyard Ecosystem

Lessons From 13+ Years Of Growing A Food Forest

Imagine a garden that grows more food each year, supports pollinators, and practically takes care of itself. That’s the magic of a food forest! Inspired by nature’s design, a food forest uses the concept of seven layers to create a sustainable, productive ecosystem in your backyard.

After years of trial and error in my own food forest, I’ve seen firsthand how these layers work together to maximize space, improve biodiversity, and ensure long-term health. In this guide, we’ll break down each layer and show you how to create your own thriving food forest.

What Are the Seven Layers of a Food Forest?

A food forest mimics a natural forest, where every plant has a purpose and supports the ecosystem. By layering plants from the tallest tree to the smallest ground cover, you can grow more food in less space while improving soil health and reducing pests.

Here are the seven layers of a food forest:

1. The Canopy Layer

The canopy is the tallest layer, made up of large, productive trees. These trees provide shade, wind protection, and a long-term food source.

Canopy Examples:

• Fruit trees: Cherry, Pears, Plum
• Nut trees: Walnuts, Chestnuts, Hazelnuts

Pro Tip:

Space your canopy trees to allow sunlight to filter down to the lower layers. Choose disease-resistant varieties suited to your local climate for less maintenance.

2. The Understory Layer

Beneath the canopy, the understory consists of smaller trees that thrive in partial shade. This layer diversifies your harvest and fills in vertical space.

Understory Examples:

• Dwarf fruit trees: Citrus, Apple, Peach
• Native fruits: Mulberries, Paw Paw

3. The Shrub Layer

The shrub layer includes berry bushes and other mid-sized plants that are perfect for attracting pollinators and providing food.

Shrub Example:

• Blueberries, Raspberries, Currants
• Medicinal shrubs: Elderberry

James’s Tip:

Raspberry is one of my favorites—not only is it low-maintenance, but it also attracts beneficial insects while providing immune-boosting berries.

4. The Herbaceous Layer

This layer includes non-woody plants like vegetables, herbs, and flowers. These plants support pollinators, suppress weeds, and can even repel pests.

Herbaceous Examples:

• Vegetables: Kale, Chard, Parsley
• Herbs: Holy Basil, Comfrey, Dill, Basil
• Flowers: Marigolds, Calendula, Zinnias

Pro Tip:

Use plants like holy basil, it is prolific, can reseed itself, is used as a medicinal herb, and its flowers attract bees like magnets.

5. The Ground Cover Layer

Low-growing plants in this layer protect the soil, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. Ground covers are vital for soil health and erosion control.

Ground Cover Examples:

• Strawberries
• Creeping thyme
• Clover

James’s Experience:

I planted strawberries as a ground cover in my food forest, and now I enjoy a steady supply of fruit while improving my soil. Plant them around your trees and they will expand overtime.

6. The Vine Layer

The vine layer maximizes vertical space by climbing trees, trellises, or arbors. These plants add beauty and productivity without taking up much ground space.

Vine Examples:

• Grapes
• Kiwis
• Peas

Team Grow Tip:

Install a sturdy Arched trellis for climbers like grapes or kiwi. Not only does it look beautiful, but it also creates a shaded walkway where you can harvest fresh fruit overhead.

7. The Root Layer

The root layer includes underground crops that improve soil structure, aeration, and fertility. These plants make your food forest more resilient.

Root Examples:

• Carrots, beets, radishes
• Garlic, onions

Pro Tip:

Incorporate nitrogen-fixing root plants like peas or beans to naturally enrich your soil.

How to Plan Your Food Forest

1. Start Small: Begin with a few layers and expand over time as you learn what works in your space.
2. Choose Plants Wisely: Focus on plants suited to your climate, soil type, and sunlight conditions.
3. Use Companion Planting: Pair plants that support each other, like clover under fruit trees or marigolds near vegetables.
4. Layer Thoughtfully: Space plants to ensure each layer gets enough sunlight and airflow.

Why Food Forest Layers Matter

The seven layers of a food forest create a resilient ecosystem where every plant serves a purpose:

• Maximize Space: Grow vertically and horizontally for higher yields.
• Improve Biodiversity: Support pollinators, beneficial insects, and birds.
• Reduce Maintenance: Layers naturally control pests, weeds, and soil health, meaning less work for you.

Build Your Food Forest Today

The seven layers of a food forest are the key to creating a sustainable, productive garden that thrives with minimal effort. Whether you’re planting fruit trees, strawberries, or climbing vines, every layer works together to produce more food while supporting the environment.

Ready to grow? Start small, plan your layers, and let nature do the rest. By this time next year, you’ll have a thriving backyard ecosystem that feeds your family and the planet.

Join The Movement

Have you started your food forest? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Grab your Food Forest shirt and don’t forget to visit TeamGrow.us for trellises, raised beds, and all the tools you need to bring your food forest to life. Let’s grow more together!