Our Philosophy

1. Intentional planting
   Every plant is chosen with purpose. We focus on nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables that grow well in their environment, support seasonal eating, and contribute to a resilient, balanced system.

2. Working with nature
   We design and care for gardens in alignment with natural cycles. By respecting soil health, climate, and seasonal rhythms, we create systems that are easier to maintain and improve over time.

3. Function before form—beauty as a result
   Our gardens are designed to function well first. When plants are healthy, properly placed, and thoughtfully maintained, the landscape naturally becomes calm, cohesive, and beautiful.

4. Stewardship over production
   We take a long-term view. Rather than pushing plants for maximum short-term output, we focus on steady care, balance, and longevity—allowing gardens to mature and thrive year after year.

5. Guidance when requested
   Some clients want everything handled for them. Others want to learn along the way. Education is always optional, and our role is to support.

The Shizen Approach

Shizen (pronounced shee-zen) is a Japanese word meaning nature or the way things exist in their natural state.

It reflects our belief that the healthiest, most resilient gardens are created by working with natural systems rather than against them—allowing food, landscape, and season to function together as they were meant to.

Shizen helps people grow their own food through thoughtfully designed and carefully stewarded edible landscapes. Our goal is to create landscapes that nourish people, respect the land they grow in, and feel naturally integrated into the spaces they inhabit.

Health, sustainability, and beauty are not separate goals—they emerge together when a garden is planned and cared for well.

Who Is Shizen For?

Shizen works with homeowners and organizations looking to grow food in a way that is thoughtful, sustainable, and well cared for over time.

Our work is a good fit for:

• Homeowners who want edible landscapes that feel natural, intentional, and easy to live with

• Businesses and commercial projects interested in food-producing landscapes that support wellness, sustainability, hospitality, or community use

• Organizations and institutions seeking functional outdoor spaces designed for long-term use, nourishment, or learning

• Clients who value stewardship and want systems designed to mature, adapt, and improve over time

If you’re looking for an edible landscape that supports people, place, and long-term use, Shizen is here to help.

Shizen was founded by Joseph Pedraza and Tora Ward, combining technical systems thinking with deep agricultural knowledge.

Together, we design and care for edible landscapes that are resilient, productive, and thoughtfully integrated into the places people live.

Tora holds a degree in Sustainable Agriculture from the University of California, Davis, with hands-on experience in soil health, plant care, and food production systems.