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Pie Shoppe Garden

Program Contact: Loren Imes
(360) 639-6059 • loren.imes@wsu.edu

At the north end of the Master Gardeners Educational Gardens, you will find an eclectic flower bed that is evolving into a Pie Shoppe Garden, so named to highlight fruit-bearing plants.

Food-bearing gardens have become more popular and this garden adds to the mix of themes in the gardens. We also acknowledge the history of Greenbank Farm, which was established in 1904 and became the largest loganberry farm in the United States by 1970.

The Pie Shoppe Garden had well established perennials for many years, including Shasta daisies, peonies, lupine, columbine, lilies, irises, rose bushes, anemones, hardy geraniums, clematis, and phlox. These perennials were chosen for their color and usefulness in the growing conditions for the garden. They are being replaced in keeping with the new fruit-bearing theme.

The initial plan includes three varieties of apples, two kiwis (a vine-like bush that will make a good block for this windiest place in the garden), a few raspberry and marionberry bushes, and a raised trug for strawberries. A small “stock pot” zone will be developed to showcase herbs that can be used in savory pies, including sage, oregano, thyme, and marjoram.

The design intent is to combine plants that not only bring wonderful color, but also discourage visits from deer. Plants that help discourage deer (or at least are less attractive to them) include lavender, rosemary, chives, oriental poppy, and yarrow.

Converting an established perennial garden into an edible feast takes careful thought and strategy. Come back often and watch our progress!

For WSU Extension resources on gardening with fruit-bearing plants, please see: