Southeast Edible Paradise

The Takai’s renovated a 1920s east-facing SE home on a 50 x 100 lot. Although a partially shaded lot, several trees have been cleared to provide more light. They envisioned a small urban tropical paradise with edibles and flowers for beauty, pleasure and livable spaces with functionality – a  food-scape with nature-scaping to attract wildlife.

They would like a sanctuary with a NW tropical theme with edibles, flowers – fragrant and plentiful, fruiting trees, and natives.  Meandering through the property they chose paths, rocks, garden and bamboo features.  With time they would like to apply for a Backyard Habitat certification to attract wildlife and use native plants.  With these ideas in mind, we have designed the space to accommodate these concepts!

“Commons Sense Gardens is aptly named because Denissia Withers provides common sense advice for Portland gardeners. She has great access to plants of all kinds and somehow has the magic touch of perfect placement. Denissia considers all aspects of gardening from plant selection, texture, light, companion planting, space, soil types and amendments, and overall canvas of a garden. We have a harmonious blend of edibles, natives, and blooms.  I believe her work with our garden is helping us create a garden that will be a living legacy. I rely on Denissia and her Common Sense Gardening”.  — Marje Takai