The Edible Garden follows the Living Building Challenge (LBC) criteria, meaning it is built to meet the most rigorous sustainable design standards in the world. It focuses on regenerative design, which is building with the intent to improve the natural environment and make it healthier.

What makes the Edible Garden special?

The Edible Garden is a living classroom designed to help people understand the research mission of Bernheim.

• The Edible Garden is designed to be inclusive and accessible to everyone. The paths and several of the beds are wheelchair accessible.
• The Edible Garden helps people connect gardening and ecology. Learn more here.
• The Edible Garden integrates all of Bernheim’s expertise in one location – Horticulture, Natural Areas, Research, Art, Education, and Experience.
• Bernheim strives to be a leader in ecological stewardship. The Edible Garden meets the most rigorous green design standards in the world by following the Living Building Challenge (LBC) criteria and implementing principles of regenerative design.
• Bernheim sourced all of its materials as locally as possible to reduce its carbon footprint. That’s why:
  • The stones that make up the plant beds were cleared from a local pasture.
  • The steel in the Grand Arbor was purchased from less than 300 miles away.
  • The solar panels selected were manufactured in America.