A WHAT?

(above) Unlike in traditional agriculture and gardening, in permaculture the soil should be disturbed as little as possible. No-dig beds are built up by using layers of organic material, such as hay, leaves and compost. Fruit and vegetables are planted directly in these layers without making holes in the ground.

This is a light cage without a floor that can be moved to a different vegetable bed every week or three. The chickens will improve the texture of the ground with all their scratching, without disturbing its basic ecology, which is what happens when you dig it over. The chickens also break down plant material to eat in smaller pieces and then work some of it back into the ground, which helps to form compost. They will also eat any goggas they find in the ground.”

By planting your herbs in a spiral shape, you’re using space effectively and creating a microclimate for plants with different needs when it comes to sunlight and wind. The design is not only beautiful but also makes it easier to harvest the herbs.

These are shallow ditches that follow the contour of a hill to catch rainwater. The water infiltrates the contour lines and helps to replenish groundwater. A swale can also help to prevent erosion because it breaks the flow of rainwater.