The plan above is for a large domestic garden in Indianapolis. According to permaculture principles, it has been designed with the site and location in mind.
Site
The design of course takes into account the local climate and conditions, and the soil of the area, which is typically in the inceptisols order, and the Sycamore soil series. Indianapolis has a humid continental climate, with hot and humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The property is in a residential area at an elevation of 873 ft.
The site has long been laid to lawn, and was chemically managed before the current owners bought the property. So there is an assumption that soil quality has been degraded to some degree.
There is an existing home and pool area that will be retained, but the design seeks to integrate the pool area into the garden as well as making the most of the rest of the site.
Another restricting factor on this site is the septic tank leach field, which of course limits what can be planted on a large part of the property.
These factors were also important in determining the details of the design.
Goals
A key goal will be to remediate and repair the soil over time and rebuild beneficial soil life in addition to increasing above soil biodiversity.
Another key goal is to turn the area from a typical grass garden to a productive space that can provide food abundantly for the family of four residing in the property.
The clients wish is to grow a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers and, additionally, to keep bees, and meat chickens and pigs seasonally.
Of course, in addition to providing a bounty of food and other resources, the design also aims to create a beautiful space that the family can enjoy.
If you would like a permaculture design for your garden, or more details on anything in these plans, please do get in touch.
EWSP Consultancy 