A well-designed compound is more than just an extension of the home, it reflects a homeowner’s vision, creativity, and lifestyle.
According to Isma Kambugu, a professional compound designer, a thoughtfully planned outdoor space can be both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional.
Many homeowners often face the dilemma of choosing between a decorative flower garden and a productive food garden, but Kambugu says that with the right approach, one can seamlessly integrate both.
Striking this balance requires careful planning, creativity, and regular maintenance to ensure that beauty and productivity coexist, transforming a compound into a space that is both welcoming and useful.
According to Kambugu, integrating food crops with flowers brings multiple benefits.
“A compound should not only be beautiful but also useful. Growing food alongside flowers enhances sustainability while maintaining an attractive home environment,” he says.
Flowers contribute to the overall appeal of a home, attract pollinators, and create a welcoming atmosphere. Meanwhile, having fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruit trees within the compound reduces grocery expenses and provides a healthier diet.
Gitta Micheal, an experienced compound designer, stresses the importance of layout.
“The key to balancing food and flowers in a compound is to have a clear design. Every plant should have its space, ensuring that neither the flowers nor the food crops overshadow each other,” he explains.
One effective method is zoning dividing the compound into different sections based on purpose. For example:
Front yard, prioritise flowers and ornamental plants to enhance beauty and create a welcoming entrance.
Backyard, dedicate more space for food crops, fruit trees, and herbs while still incorporating flowering plants for aesthetic value.
Walkways and borders, use herbs and small vegetables like lettuce, spinach, or strawberries along pathways, blending functionality with beauty.
Joseph Bukenya, who balances flowers and food crops, shares his experience.
“I wanted a beautiful compound, but I also wanted to grow my own vegetables. I started by planting flowering plants like marigolds and roses around my vegetable garden to keep pests away and add beauty.”
Bukenya explains that combining plants strategically has made his compound both appealing and productive.
He grows crops like tomatoes, onions, and herbs such as basil and rosemary in raised beds while surrounding them with colorful flowers.
“It’s a win-win. The flowers attract pollinators, and the vegetables thrive,” he says.
Choosing the right plants
Gitta advises selecting plants that complement each other.
“Edible flowers like nasturtiums and calendula not only add beauty but can also be used in salads. Similarly, herbs like lavender and rosemary are both attractive and useful in the kitchen,” he explains.
Maintaining the balance
To ensure long-term success, Kambugu says that there is need for proper maintenance.
“Regular pruning, mulching, and pest control help keep both flowers and food crops healthy. It’s also important to consider seasonal plants and rotate crops to maintain soil fertility,” he advises.
