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”
Tag Archives: woodland garden
The Importance of Pioneer Trees
I’ve spoken a lot before on this site about the vital role that trees play in permaculture design and ecosystem restoration. But some of you may be interested in this recent article I wrote outlining the basics of pioneer trees. The Importance of Pioneer Trees for Forest Gardens and Other Purposes Trees are always onContinue reading “The Importance of Pioneer Trees”
Don’t Neglect the Shrub Layer in a Forest Garden
The shrub layer in a forest garden is one that is sometimes neglected in design. Those new to forest gardening often focus on the trees, then their attention leaps to the herbaceous layer. If they do think about the shrub layer at all, initially, people’s minds tend to leap to typical fruit bushes like gooseberriesContinue reading “Don’t Neglect the Shrub Layer in a Forest Garden”
Choosing Bare Root Trees and Shrubs
Most who are new to gardening imagine that spring will be the best time to begin to establish new growing areas. But you do not need to wait until next year to start creating a new edible garden. Choosing bare root trees and shrubs is a good way to start creating a forest garden orContinue reading “Choosing Bare Root Trees and Shrubs”
Make The Most of Fallen Leaves
Gardeners and all nature lovers are no doubt already aware of the vital role that trees and deciduous plants play in natural cycles. Leaves fall, and through a series of mechanisms and with the aid of earthworms, fungi, bacteria and other life, the nutrients within them return to the soil, where they can be usedContinue reading “Make The Most of Fallen Leaves”