Food system reform is a hot topic. It is essential that agriculture changes, if we are to successfully tackle the environmental and social challenges we face. As a permaculture designer, I often focus on the basics – energy use, water, fertility… But as we develop sustainable growing systems, we need to recognise that while weContinue reading “The Future of Farming”
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Weed Seeds To Eat
When we think of autumn foraging, wild fruits are likely the first things that spring to mind. But there are also other more unusual edibles to consider. Today, I thought I would mention three types of seed that I use around this time of year. The first of these is nettle seeds. Nettle seeds mightContinue reading “Weed Seeds To Eat”
Why Brambles Aren’t Always Bad
Many gardeners wage war on brambles. But blackberry brambles aren’t always bad. We should learn to recognise that we should not view them as ‘thugs’ that invade and take over, but as amazing and useful plants to embrace in our gardens. Many gardeners wonder how to get rid of brambles. They worry when brambles creepContinue reading “Why Brambles Aren’t Always Bad”
Why Sustainability is Good For Business
Businesses often feel that they have to focus on the bottom line. And it is certainly the case that businesses have to operate within existing economic systems. Put simply – a business needs to make money. But increasingly, it is clear that sustainability is more than just ‘the right thing to do’. Operating in aContinue reading “Why Sustainability is Good For Business”
Why Carbon Offsetting is Not Enough
Many individuals and businesses are lulled into a false sense of security by the idea that they can simply offset the carbon they emit or are responsible for emitting with a carbon offset scheme. But the truth of the matter is that carbon offsetting alone will not tackle the climate crisis, not solve the otherContinue reading “Why Carbon Offsetting is Not Enough”
Patterns in Permaculture
In permaculture, you will often hear talk of designing from patterns to details. Most frequently, this idea is applied to garden design. We think about the patterns of sunlight and water, plant growth and human interaction. Since permaculture can also be applied in other areas of life, patterns can also refer to a range ofContinue reading “Patterns in Permaculture”
Choosing Heritage Fruit Tree Varieties
Diversity is important not only when it comes to the types, but also the varieties of the produce and other plants we grow. Choosing heritage of heirloom varieties helps retain genetic diversity. It helps in safeguarding traditional varietals for future generations and in retaining variety in our food supplies. When choosing fruit trees for aContinue reading “Choosing Heritage Fruit Tree Varieties”
Make a Hot Bed For Winter Growing
Now that the weather is getting colder, it is important not to give up on your garden. Many new growers are surprised by how much you can continue to grow over the winter months. Even in a colder climate, it is possible to create growing areas that you can use throughout the year. One thingContinue reading “Make a Hot Bed For Winter Growing”
How To Reduce Food Waste at Home
Reduce food waste at home and you are playing your part in caring for planet and people. It can help you reduce the amount you spend on food and ease financial strains. But it can also help prevent waste on a wider scale, and safeguard society, systems and environments. Reducing food waste at home doesContinue reading “How To Reduce Food Waste at Home”
Food Waste – A Major Issue We Can All Help Solve
When it comes to the waste that leaves our homes, plastic waste is obviously one of the key issues. But another very important area to consider is food waste. You might be shocked to learn that around a 1/3 of all the food produced on our planet is lost or goes to waste. This amountsContinue reading “Food Waste – A Major Issue We Can All Help Solve”