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"Plants grown in worm castings grew 3 times faster than identical plants grown in potting mix". Learn how to make your plants & garden thrive with worm composting... Click Here To Learn How.

Permaculture

Permaculture is more than just gardening; it's a fulfilling journey into sustainable living. By embracing permaculture, you're not only growing your own fresh, organic food, but you're also creating a thriving ecosystem right in your backyard. It’s about working with nature, using resources wisely, and making a positive impact on the environment. Permaculture offers a way to live more harmoniously with the earth while reaping the benefits of a lush, productive garden. Let's explore the inspiring world of permaculture together!

Permaculture Guide

Your Permaculture Expert...

Rachel is here to teach you how to create your own unique edible landscape design. She'll show you how to work within your local ecosystem and existing resources to save you time and money. Get the look and feel of an ornamental landscape whilst growing a ton of food using time tested permaculture principals at the same time...

Rachel graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2003 with a B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design and received her Permaculture Consultant certificate in 2010. Along with teaching others everything there is to know about permaculture and landscape design, she also runs a successful edible and ecological landscape design business. Her unique design style blends ornamental and permaculture landscape techniques for clients in and around Madison, WI as well as virtually... Learn more here.

Permaculture Basics

Here are the basics of permaculture. Keep scrolling down to find hundreds of expert permaculture Q&As sent in by site visitors and readers over the years...

What exactly is permaculture?

Permaculture is a way of designing your garden or living space to work in harmony with nature. Instead of fighting against natural processes, you use them to your advantage. It's about creating sustainable systems that take care of the earth, people, and share resources fairly.

How do I start with permaculture in my garden?

Start by observing your space. Notice where the sun hits, how water flows, and what plants are thriving naturally. From there, you can begin small by planting a few native or edible plants that suit your environment, or by setting up a compost bin.

Do I need a big space to practice permaculture?

Not at all! Permaculture can be practiced on any scale, whether you have a large yard, a small garden, or even just a balcony. It's all about maximizing the space you have and using it wisely to grow food, conserve water, and support local wildlife.

What are permaculture zones and why are they important?

Permaculture zones are a way to organize your space based on how often you'll need to visit each area. For example, plants that need daily care should be closest to your home (Zone 1), while things like compost piles can be further away (Zone 3). This helps you manage your space more efficiently.

How can I improve my soil naturally using permaculture?

Permaculture encourages building healthy soil through composting, mulching, and using organic matter like leaves or grass clippings. You can also grow cover crops that add nutrients back into the soil, making it richer and more fertile over time.

What role does water play in permaculture?

Water is vital in permaculture. The goal is to manage it wisely, so you're not wasting a drop. This might mean collecting rainwater, setting up a drip irrigation system, or planting in ways that retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for extra watering.

Can I incorporate animals into my permaculture garden?

Absolutely! Animals like chickens or bees can play a significant role in permaculture. Chickens can help with pest control and fertilization, while bees support pollination. It’s all about creating a balanced system where every element, including animals, contributes to the whole.

How do I deal with pests naturally in permaculture?

Permaculture favors natural pest control methods, like encouraging beneficial insects, planting pest-repelling herbs, or using companion planting strategies. It’s about creating a healthy ecosystem where pests are managed without the need for chemicals.

What are some easy permaculture practices I can start with?

Begin with composting kitchen scraps, setting up a rain barrel, or planting a small herb garden. These are simple steps that get you started on your permaculture journey and make your space more sustainable right away.

How does permaculture benefit the environment?

Permaculture helps reduce waste, conserve water, and create habitats for wildlife. By working with nature instead of against it, you're helping to restore natural ecosystems, reduce your carbon footprint, and contribute to a healthier planet.

Recommended Permaculture Books

If you're looking for some of the most popular books about permaculture, we recommend adding the following to your library...

Permaculture Q&A's...

Hundreds of permaculture Q&A's that our newsletter readers & site visitors have sent in over the years, answered by our experts...

Climate & Soil, Permaculture

“I’ve noticed that my garden in San Diego isn’t as vibrant as it used to be.

Why Are Earthworms Crucial In Permaculture Soil Systems?

Permaculture, Permaculture Water Management

“I recently started incorporating more permaculture techniques in my backyard garden, and I’m particularly focused on

Why Is Water Conservation Critical In Permaculture?

Permaculture, Permaculture Waste Reduction

“Hi! So I’m really trying to reduce the amount of water I use on my small

What Techniques Does Permaculture Use To Minimize Water Waste?

Community Permaculture, Permaculture

“I’m thinking about integrating more elements into our growing permaculture community, and I’m particularly curious about

What Role Does Public Art Play In Permaculture Communities?

Permaculture, Permaculture Waste Reduction

“I’m thinking about using human waste in my compost to improve soil fertility. My family and

What Is The Role Of Composting Human Waste In Permaculture?

Permaculture, Permaculture Economics

“I’ve been reading about permaculture practices, and I’m trying to make my home garden in Vancouver

What Practices In Permaculture Promote Responsible Consumption?

Permaculture, Permaculture Water Management

“I’ve been trying to turn my small yard in London (about a 30-foot by 40-foot space)

What Strategies Does Permaculture Use For Water Scarcity?

Climate & Soil, Permaculture

“We’re moving into our first home, and I finally have the space to try out some

What Role Does Mulch Play In Permaculture Soil Management?

Community Permaculture, Permaculture

“I’m passionate about reducing social inequality in my community, and I’ve been reading a lot about

What Role Does Permaculture Play In Addressing Social Inequality?

Permaculture, Permaculture Waste Reduction

“I’m starting a small urban permaculture garden in my backyard, and I’m really focused on making

What Are The Strategies For Waste Reduction In Urban Permaculture?

Permaculture, Permaculture Economics

“I’m currently setting up a small eco-tourist retreat in the Lake District, and I’m trying to

What Is The Role Of Permaculture In Sustainable Tourism?

Permaculture, Permaculture Design

“I’m working on setting up a permaculture garden in my backyard here in Manchester, UK, and

What Waste Management Techniques Are Used In Permaculture Design?

Climate & Soil, Permaculture

“I’ve been trying to convert part of my backyard in Burlington, VT into a permaculture garden,

What Permaculture Designs Work For Flood-Prone Areas?

Permaculture, Permaculture Water Management

“I’ve been working on improving the water systems on my permaculture farm for a while now,

What Role Do Wetlands Play In Permaculture Water Systems?

Permaculture, Permaculture Principles

“I’m new to permaculture and I’ve been reading about the principle ‘Use Small and Slow Solutions.’

What Is The Significance Of “Use Small And Slow Solutions” In Permaculture?

Animal Integration, Permaculture

“I’ve been doing permaculture for the past three years in my backyard located just on the

Why Are Rabbits Beneficial In A Permaculture System?

Community Permaculture, Permaculture

“I’m starting a small permaculture garden here in Ottawa, Canada, and I’ve read a little about

What Is The Role Of Cultural Diversity In Community Permaculture?

Permaculture, Permaculture Waste Reduction

“I’ve been trying to incorporate more zero-waste principles into my permaculture garden, but I’m finding it

What Are The Principles Of Zero-Waste Living In Permaculture?

Additional Permaculture Resources

Here are some additional permaculture resources you might find valuable. If you have a website you would like listed here, please contact us.

The Permaculture Research Institute (PRI) is based in NSW Australia, headed by Geoff & Nadia Lawton it provides education & training & daily Permaculture news and information.

PINA is a professional association for Permaculture Practitioners working across North America and Hawaii to promote permaculture pathways in professional development.

Regeneration International aims to reverse global warming & end world hunger by facilitating & accelerating the global transition to regenerative agriculture & land management.

If you have a website useful for those interested in learning more about permaculture, get in touch with us so we can add it here.