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13 Ways to Mix Edibles and Ornamentals

Don't just admire your garden—bring it to the table when you mix edibles with ornamentals. Let these combination gardens inspire you to grow your own.

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Photo: Courtesy of P. Allen Smith and Jane Colclasure

Hollyhocks, Sage and Dill

Gardens filled with edibles and ornamentals invite visitors to appreciate their beauty and flavors. Here, red 'Summer Carnivale' hollyhocks mingle with aromatic dill 'Bouquet' and sage 'Berggarten'.

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Photo: Courtesy of Ball Horticultural

Basil 'Boxwood' and Petuinas

Imagine a hedge you can use to make pesto! With its small leaves and dwarf habit, 'Boxwood' basil takes the place of traditional boxwood shrubs. Pink petunias in the background set off its deep green color.

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Photo: Courtesy of P. Allen Smith and Jane Colclasure

Marigolds, Tomatoes and Onions

Green onion stalks make a backdrop for a tumble of orange marigolds and tomato plants. They're bordered on the other side by spikes of velvety-purple salvia and orange-red tithonia.

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Photo: Courtesy P. Allen Smith

Swiss Chard and Pansies

Swiss chard and pansies add the three primary colors to this edible, ornamental garden: red, green and blue.

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