Case Study: Tennessee Permaculture

This example shows some recent work for a garden in Tennessee. This is in zone 7a, with a frost free period of 190 to 200 days, mean annual air temperature of 57-61 degrees F, and 46-60 inches annual precipitation. The predominant soil of this area is a silt loam, free draining and moderately acidic. OneContinue reading “Case Study: Tennessee Permaculture”

Hope – The Route to a Better Future

Of course, the COP26 conference has failed to deliver the agreements we so urgently need to translate words into positive action. But for me, that does not mean that all is lost. One key thing that it is important to remember is that we should hope. Hope is often a feat of the imagination, andContinue reading “Hope – The Route to a Better Future”

Site Analysis in Permaculture Design

Other garden designers are often somewhat confused by the extensive site analysis process permaculture designers go through before they even begin to formulate their designs. But as those familiar with permaculture will know – understanding of a specific site and the sectors acting on it is crucial for truly sustainable design. Though I work remotely,Continue reading “Site Analysis in Permaculture Design”

Case Study: Chateau Permaculture

This is a concept design for a chateau in France, which is currently in the process of renovation. The new owners are saving the partially derelict buildings, and will be utilising the land for weddings and events, a glamping site, and a sustainable food production and restaurant business, and wanted some help to visualise theContinue reading “Case Study: Chateau Permaculture”

Case Study: Tiny Home Agroforestry and Rewilding

When people acquire a piece of land, often, their first thought is to erect a large home on it. But as this interesting project demonstrates, we can live much more lightly on the land. This plot in Scotland comprises almost a hectare (just under 2.5 acres) of marginal land but will accommodate a wooden cabinContinue reading “Case Study: Tiny Home Agroforestry and Rewilding”

Case Study: South Carolina Permaculture Plan

This is a recent concept design for a property in South Carolina, where the needs of a family of three and their dogs must be met. This garden in USDA hardiness zone 7b slopes down very slightly from the south west to north east, with a slightly more pronounced slope down from the front ofContinue reading “Case Study: South Carolina Permaculture Plan”

Plant Spring Bulbs Around Fruit Trees

Spring bulbs are a wonderful option for fruit tree guilds in many temperate zones. As a regenerative landscape designer, today I thought I would share with you some of the reasons why you should consider planting spring bulbs around fruit trees in your garden: Spring Bulbs Help Suppress Grass Growth Grass can be overly competitiveContinue reading “Plant Spring Bulbs Around Fruit Trees”

Case Study: Aiming for Self-Sufficiency

This is a design for a smallholding for a couple with this fairly modest piece of land in SE Scotland who are aiming for as much self-sufficiency as possible. The couple already grows some fruits and vegetables but wished to create a design which would allow them to increase their resilience and self-reliance. The coupleContinue reading “Case Study: Aiming for Self-Sufficiency”

Case Study: Malaysia Permaculture Concept Plan

This is a concept plan that I have just created for a family in Malaysia. I am still working on some of the details with the client, and have yet to complete the full planting plans, but this concept design gives an overview of the diverse uses to which the area will be put. TheContinue reading “Case Study: Malaysia Permaculture Concept Plan”

Competition’s Role in Garden Design

Competition is something that we tend to think about in different contexts. But in garden design, it can be useful to think about competition too. Competition is a normal part of nature – and just like in a social context, it is something that can be beneficial or something which can hinder progress. One ofContinue reading “Competition’s Role in Garden Design”