This plan is for a domestic property in Port Townsend, Washington. The Site The property is in USDA planting zone 8b. The frost-free period is typically 225-250 days. The area typically has lower precipitation than is usual for the state. There are typically around 21 inches per year of rainfall, and 2.1 inches of snow.Continue reading “Case Study: Terraced Site”
Tag Archives: permaculture
Planting for Soil Stabilisation on a Slope
Yesterday, I mentioned swales and terracing for water control. These landscape features often used in permaculture design manage water flow. By preventing water run-off, they can also aid in reducing erosion. But in addition to these earthworks, soil stabilisation on a slope also involves thinking carefully about planting. In permaculture, earthworks and planting cannot beContinue reading “Planting for Soil Stabilisation on a Slope”
Managing Water Flow in Permaculture Design
In permaculture, one of the basic design principles is use and value renewable resources. One of the most vital natural resources we have is fresh water. Permaculture approaches to all facets of life must take into account the pathways of fresh water. Those designing sustainable landscapes and food producing systems must think about how freshContinue reading “Managing Water Flow in Permaculture Design”
Tips for an Existing Community Garden
Inspired by a recent outreach, I thought I would take some time to talk a little about community gardens. Community gardens are a wonderful thing. Whether they are on public land, brown field sites, local authority spaces, school playgrounds, beside a church, or other community space, they can make a big difference in a community.Continue reading “Tips for an Existing Community Garden”
Case Study: Washington Garden
The site is a domestic garden in the state of Washington. The property currently has a cabin, and several mature trees, which will be retained. Though is largely grassy, open and relatively exposed. There are plans for future construction – initially a garage and apartment, and car port. In the longer term future, there areContinue reading “Case Study: Washington Garden”
Using Living Mulch
Mulching is an important thing in an organic garden. It is crucial for protecting the soil, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds. It can also be beneficial in other ways, such as providing habitat and shelter for soil life and other wildlife. Many people are familiar with mulches such as compost, well-rotted manures, straw, wood chipContinue reading “Using Living Mulch”
Case Study: Florida Permaculture Design
The plan above is for a site of approximately 3 acres in Baker, Florida. The site is in USDA planting zone 8, and experiences mean annual air temperature of 55-70 degrees F, and mean annual rainfall of 40-69 inches. Average summer highs are around 91.4 degrees, and average winter lows are around 39.2 degrees F.Continue reading “Case Study: Florida Permaculture Design”
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”
Case Study: Massachusetts Garden Design
Located in Massachusetts, this is a plan for a domestic garden. The site is largely level, laid largely to lawn at present, with many mature trees around the property boundary. Many of the existing trees can be retained, though I recommended establishing better under-storey planting utilising a range of useful native plants. The property isContinue reading “Case Study: Massachusetts Garden Design”
EWSP Consultancy 