The permaculture way

Permaculture is a way of life that follows three golden rules; caring for the planet, caring for people and a fair share. In the garden it's all about working closely with nature.

Prioritise soil health.

Mulching, green manure crops, ‘no-dig’ and ‘key-hole’ gardening are some of the methods used to support the soil life that converts organic matter into food for plants.

Maximise diversity.

Filling a space with a wide variety of plants encourages a better balance of nature. Many herbs and flowers attract pollinating insects and natural pest predators. Others repel pests. Crop rotation helps manage pests and diseases.

Design to save time.

Human labour is a valuable resource not to be wasted. Weeds can be left in situ as mulch if pulled before they go to seed. Compost can be made on the garden bed where it is to be used. Chickens will weed your garden and apply fertiliser at the same time. Many permaculture gardeners make mobile chicken coops to match the size of their garden beds. Perennial edibles (including herbs, salad greens and fruit trees) don’t need to be replanted year after year.

Make the most of available space,

including vertical space for planting edibles. No soil is left bare. Recycle,

using a variety of methods from compost bins to worm farms. Chicken’s love converting weeds and vege scraps into garden fertiliser. Whatever system suits your situation, zero waste is the ultimate goal.

Think creatively.

There is no one way with permaculture design. It’s all about coming up with efficient systems that are productive, conserve energy and easy to adapt to changing seasons and a changing climate.

Work together

within communities, sharing ideas along with seeds, plants and bountiful harvests.