Guest Curiosity Inspired Greater Focus On Edible Landscapes At The Epcot International Flower And Garden Festival

Long time Disney fans may have noticed the subtle evolution of the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival from a jubilant display of mostly flower gardens to relevant source of inspiration for edible landscapes. While one could say that Disney is on the cutting edge of change in gardening, the truth is that the greater focus on food came straight from the guests.


Dale Watches Over A Veggie Garden (c) Sam Howzit


According to Epcot Horticulture Manager Eric Darden, a decade a go the Disney team realized that if they wanted to increase the traffic to a garden, all they had to do was add edible plants and it would pique the interest of guests. This curiosity led lots of questions from visitors, and the Disney team responded by creating more and more exciting edible landscapes, tours, and demonstrations. Darden believes that it's not only a trend in modern gardening, but a real change in the way people look at plants and gardens for bringing food to their table in more natural ways.

Not only are the edible landscapes at the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival sources that can inspire your own gardening adventure; but they light a passion for information about fresh whole foods that you can grow yourself. This guest fueled revolution helped to introduce the Outdoor Kitchens, where Disney Chefs take that farm fresh produce and turn it in to something spectacular. In 2017 eleven of these Outdoor Kitchens will dot the World Showcase Promenade sharing farm fresh flavors and epicurean fun.


Beautiful Growing Table with Herbs, Fruits, and Vegetables (c) Sam Howzit


So - just what kind of edible landscape will guests be able to explore at the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival? Well, in short they should keep an eye out for agricultural plants all over the place. In recent years we've noticed a lot of edibles in the landscaping, especially around the Outdoor Kitchens. Guest will find everything from decorative cabbage and lettuce, to planters filled with fragrant herbs, pineapple in pathway borders, delectable flowers, and even coffee trees. You simply never know what might be growing in the pot you're standing next to until you take a closer look.

A Health & Healing Garden will be located near The Land Pavilion where guests will be able to discover ancient plants that man has used for centuries to heal. It may just inspire you to grow some home remedies you can turn to for minor ailments at home. Also in place at The Land Pavilion is the Pepper Fire Garden where guests can get a look at some of the world's hottest peppers - a true delight for chili heads.


Camomile Grows Near The Tea Caddy (c) Jennifer Lynn


In addition to the broad range of edible landscapes on display at the festival, there are several tours that guests who want to delve deeper can enjoy.

Gardens of the World is a 3-hour walking tour that gives participants a chance to explore and develop a passion for gardening with a member of the Disney horticulture team. It's a great jaunt for gardening enthusiasts and you'll be sure to come away with new inspiration for your plots at home. The Gardens of the world Tour is $85 per person and participants must be 16 years of age to join.

The English Tea Garden is presented by Twinings, and during the Flower and Garden Festival guests can sign up to take a tour to discover the artistry behind growing and blending herbs to create magnificent infusions and unique brews. This 20 minute tour leaves a couple of times a day, and is reserved on a first come basis, you can sign up at the Tea Caddy in the UK Pavilion in the morning of your visit to secure your spot.

No matter what time of year it is, The Land pavilion is a showcase of modern hydroponics and growing techniques. Guests can sign up for the 'Behind the Seeds' tour through the four greenhouses of 'Living with the Land' and discover. This hour long tour costs $25 and is offered several times a day.


Mickey Mouse Shaped Watermelon


Do you have an interest in edible gardening? Have you ever considered heading to the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival for inspiration? You should make a plan and get growing!