This is the initial concept plan for an exciting 22 acre property in southern France, in a Mediterranean climate zone. There is an existing farmhouse, with a gite, ruined barn and existing walled kitchen garden which is overgrown and disused. Behind the farmhouse are several fields of grape vines which are also in need ofContinue reading “Case Study: Mediterranean Agroforestry Community”
Tag Archives: permaculture design
The Importance of Topography in Permaculture Design
Topography -essentially the shape of the piece of land – is one factor often overlooked in permaculture design. In small gardens, topography may not be a huge defining factor – the space my be flat and level. However, in many larger designs, and even in some smaller ones, slope, elevation and other topographical features can,Continue reading “The Importance of Topography in Permaculture Design”
Case Study: Israel Permaculture Garden
This case study is a small design I recently completed for a garden in Be’er Sheva, Israel, in the Negev Desert. The main challenges of the site are, of course, the low rainfall, and soil salinity. If you too are challenged by a very dry site, saline soil, or other issues, I would be gladContinue reading “Case Study: Israel Permaculture Garden”
Vermont Fruit Tree Guilds
I do not usually share details of planting from my designs on this site. But today, I thought I would share a recent project which involved creating fruit tree guilds for an existing orchard. The above image shows my concept for the fruit tree guilds in this orchard, in Bennington, Vermont, in Zone 5a. WorkingContinue reading “Vermont Fruit Tree Guilds”
Beyond the Generic Permaculture Fruit Tree Guild
I have written before on this site and elsewhere about creating fruit tree guilds. And this topic is one of the things I am asked about most frequently. It is also, perhaps, one of the things in permaculture most frequently misunderstood. There is a lot of information out there and unfortunately, much of it canContinue reading “Beyond the Generic Permaculture Fruit Tree Guild”
Every Garden Offers Opportunities
Many home buyers look for the holy grail of a sunny, south facing garden. But even when the garden is small and north facing, the space can offer plenty of exciting options. Every garden offers opportunities, no matter how problematic it may at first appear. In permaculture, we always look at the opportunities that aContinue reading “Every Garden Offers Opportunities”
Permaculture Design: Collaboration With Architects
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”
Case Study: Artist’s Garden
This case study shows a design for a back garden in Scotland. The client is an artist of many talents, and wanted a garden that could provide for her needs while delighting all the senses. The garden is around 20m x 45m, oriented almost North-South. Of course, I also delivered more comprehensive planting plans, butContinue reading “Case Study: Artist’s Garden”
Case Study: Front Yard Farm
This group of seven front yards in Illinois will soon become a front yard farm, growing a range of produce for the seven households (of 15 people). Seven front yard ‘fields’ will be tended by the farmer, living at lot 3 on the above plan. And his garage will become a hub for the farm’sContinue reading “Case Study: Front Yard Farm”
Get Your Garden Ready to Entertain This Summer – Sustainable Garden Tips
As many of us move out of lockdowns once more, we’re looking forward to welcoming friends and families into our gardens over the summer months. So to help you prepare for summer parties and gatherings, here are some tip tips to make your garden ready in a sustainable way: Plant for fresh produce that youContinue reading “Get Your Garden Ready to Entertain This Summer – Sustainable Garden Tips”