As a permaculture designer, I often work closely with architects on new build or renovation projects. I feel that it is very important that designing the build environment go hand-in-hand with designing for the surrounding site. Unfortunately, all too often, architects only give cursory consideration to landscaping. Though sustainable architects are expert when it comesContinue reading “Permaculture Design: Collaboration With Architects”
Author Archives: Elizabeth Waddington
The Benefits of Forest Bathing
Today was the last day of my two week break from work. This morning we finished the latest project on our barn conversion – putting the first coat of clay plaster on the flat ceilings and sloping sides of the upstairs rooms. I cleaned out the rescue hens, and did a little work in theContinue reading “The Benefits of Forest Bathing”
Sustainable Ideas for Summer Days Out
Cautious optimism for many as the vaccine rollout proceeds means that many people’s minds are turning to summer days out. Whether or not your world is opening up again now, you might be looking forward to getting out a little more as summer progresses. But it is important to think about where you go andContinue reading “Sustainable Ideas for Summer Days Out”
Sustainable Pest Control in an Organic Garden
One of the biggest mistakes which people make when making the switch to organic gardening is thinking about pests as a problem which can be solved with a topical application. As a consultant, I fairly regularly receive questions about pests. And people often expect an answer which involves a specific formulation for plants infested withContinue reading “Sustainable Pest Control in an Organic Garden”
A Climatarian Diet is Not Just About Eating Less (Or No) Meat
Of course a big part of living more sustainably is thinking very carefully about what you eat. What ends up on your plate contributes a great deal to your carbon footprint – and changing your food habits is one of the best ways to live in a more sustainable and eco-friendly way. If you areContinue reading “A Climatarian Diet is Not Just About Eating Less (Or No) Meat”
Wild Raspberries in my Garden
We are very lucky here because wild raspberries grow prolifically in this area, and crop up all around the edges of our property and pretty much wherever we allow them to grow. Raspberries are one of my favourite fruits, and we love both the wild and cultivated varieties. I allow the wild variety to growContinue reading “Wild Raspberries in my Garden”
Mulching Potatoes Rather Than Earthing Up With Soil
Traditionally potatoes are of course earthed up as they grow. But as I have experimented here with no dig gardening techniques, I have moved to a system where I mulch around the growing potato plants rather than mounding up the soil around them. I have tried various different organic mulch materials and while my experimentsContinue reading “Mulching Potatoes Rather Than Earthing Up With Soil”
Some Of The Best Self Seeders in My Forest Garden
A great garden is one which can not only endure over time but which also improves and gains in biodiversity. Making the right initial choices when it comes to planting can go a long way towards ensuring that the garden evolves as you wish. And choosing the right plants can make your life easier too.Continue reading “Some Of The Best Self Seeders in My Forest Garden”
Lilac in the Garden
Today we spent some time relaxing in the sunshine enjoying the scent of the lilacs close by. We really enjoy the look and smell of the lilacs in the garden. There are two mature lilac trees on the border of the back garden which were here when we moved in. One is a lilac lilacContinue reading “Lilac in the Garden”
Make a Pledge for World Environment Day
Be part of the restoration generation. Today, many from diverse backgrounds came together for World Environment Day – kickstarting the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. This is not just about raising awareness. The goal is to turn a desire to do the right thing into real and tangible action. Every action matters. So make aContinue reading “Make a Pledge for World Environment Day”