Edible landscaping has gained in popularity because people gained more appreciation for “beautiful food” by growing crops creatively and innovatively.
With its theme “Combining Beauty with Bounty”, the Gender-Based Training on Edible Landcaping was attended with 25 farmers and Agricultural Extension Workers in Odiongan, Romblon.

Edible landscaping involves growing edible crops planted in a landscape using herbs, spices cash crops, perennial crops, vines, fruit trees, shrubs, ornaments, among others into aesthetically pleasing designs.

According to Joven Robinson Santos, resource speaker from TESDA-Quezon National Agricultural School, the crops that they would plant should be suited in their area and considered other factors such as sunlight, soil and its demand, among others. Moreover, they should also have farm layout or farm plan to consider the entire production of agricultural crops as well as complementation of each crop.

Highlight of the training were making edible landscape in the techno-demo farm of LGU-Odiongan and drafting their respective farm layouts. The participants made a bamboo arch and plant/arrange plants in a creative way.

Aside from edible landscaping, Jezell dela Cruz, GAD Focal Person discussed the gender and development and Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act. She cited the difference circumstances where rights of women and children are being violated.

“Marami akong nadiskubre na makabagong kaalaman lalo na sa paghahalaman dito ko natutunan na pwedi palang lagyan ng art ang paghahalaman bukod sa may makakain tayong masusustanyang gulay ay pwedi pala itong makadagdag ng ganda sa ating paligid sa pamamagitan ng landscaping”, says Antonia Dalisay, farmer-participant from Odiongan, Romblon.

The training was held last May 20 – 22, 2019.