What’s The Meaning Of “Use And Value Renewable Resources” In Permaculture?

“I’ve started exploring permaculture in my backyard here in Seattle. I keep hearing about how important it is to ‘Use and Value Renewable Resources,’ but I’m struggling to fully grasp what that means in practice. What are some practical ways I can incorporate this principle into my garden? Also, are there any common challenges I should be aware of while trying to use renewable resources more effectively?” Thanks, Jessica, Seattle, USA.

Understanding The Principle of “Use and Value Renewable Resources” in Permaculture

Jessica, great question! “Use and Value Renewable Resources” is one of those permaculture principles that really gets to the heart of living sustainably, so it’s awesome that you’re already thinking about how to incorporate it into your garden. This principle is all about making the most of the resources that regenerate naturally so that you’re not reliant on finite resources that could harm the environment in the long run.

In your Seattle backyard, there are countless ways to bring this principle into play, whether with rainwater, compost, or even a bit of creative planting. But first, let’s lay down some groundwork to help you understand what renewable resources actually are and why they’re so important.

What Are Renewable Resources?

Renewable resources are those that, simply put, can replenish themselves over time without depleting the Earth’s supply. Think about things like sunlight, wind, rain, and even the plants and animals we grow or raise. They keep coming back, year after year (as long as we take care of them, of course).

In contrast, non-renewable resources like fossil fuels, minerals, and some deep-dwelling water sources can be used up—once they’re gone, they’re gone. Using renewable resources helps to reduce our environmental footprint because it means drawing from sources that are naturally replenished.

Why Does This Matter in Permaculture?

The whole idea with permaculture is to create a regenerative system—one that can sustain itself (and you) without needing constant input from outside sources. By using renewable resources, you’re not only keeping your garden running smoothly, but also helping out the larger ecosystem by reducing waste and pollution. It’s a win-win!

Plus, renewable resources often have lower upfront costs and are more easily adapted to local environments—perfect for permaculture, which is all about working with what you’ve got.

Practical Ways to “Use and Value Renewable Resources” in Your Garden

You’re likely already using more renewable resources than you realize, Jessica, but let’s look at some practical ways to further incorporate this principle into your backyard garden.

Collecting and Using Rainwater

Seattle is famous for its rainy days, so why not use that to your advantage? Setting up a rainwater collection system can be an easy and effective way to provide your garden with plenty of water without turning on a hose. Even a simple rain barrel can go a long way toward reducing your reliance on municipal water supplies.

Here’s a quick rundown on how to do it:

1. Choose a good location under a downspout for your rain barrel.
2. Make sure the barrel has a spigot at the bottom for easy water access and place it on a sturdy stand to help gravity do the work.
3. Install a mesh screen to keep out debris and mosquitos.

Use this water whenever you can for irrigation. It’s free, abundant, and better for your plants than treated tap water. Plus, it’s a renewable resource like no other—it rains, it fills, and you use it again. Repeat!

Composting: Nature’s Renewable Fertilizer

If there’s one renewable resource your garden can’t get enough of, it’s nutrients for the soil! Composting is the easiest, most natural way of returning nutrients back into your garden.

Take your kitchen scraps—fruit peels, coffee grounds, eggshells—and add them to a compost bin along with garden waste like leaves and grass clippings. Over time, these materials break down into rich, fertile compost that you can use to nourish your plants. It’s like creating your own renewable fertilizer, for free—instead of hauling those nutrients away, you’re letting them return to the soil where they belong.

Solar Power: The Ultimate Renewable Resource

Jessica, since you’re in Seattle, you might not have quite as much sunlight as we do here in Minnesota, but you can still harness solar power. Solar panels could power your garden lights, irrigation systems, or even a small greenhouse fan. Even if you start small, it’s a great way to cut down on your electricity usage and tap into one of the most abundant renewable resources available.

Permaculture Plant Selections: Focus on Perennials

Annual crops can be labor-intensive and energy-consuming because you have to replant them each year. Perennials, on the other hand, come back year after year, making them a renewable resource in their own right. Consider including more perennial plants in your garden—think about adding in native berry bushes, fruit trees, or perennial vegetables like asparagus. They not only save you on effort but also make your garden more sustainable in the long run.

Mulching: Protect Your Soil and Save Water

A thick layer of mulch isn’t just about keeping weeds at bay; it’s also an excellent way to preserve moisture and nutrients in your soil. Mulch is often made from renewable materials like straw, grass clippings, or leaves. Spread it around your plants and garden paths to hold in water, cut down on weeds, and slowly release nutrients as it breaks down. Mulching is a fantastic example of using renewable, locally-sourced resources to benefit your garden.

Common Challenges When Using Renewable Resources

As fantastic as renewable resources are, they do come with their set of challenges. But hey, who doesn’t love a little problem-solving in the garden? Here are a few potential roadblocks you might face, Jessica, and some tips on how to navigate them.

Rainwater Storage Issues

Rainwater is a gift from nature, but storage can be tricky, especially in a region like Seattle where you might collect more than you can use. Invest in multiple barrels or even an underground cistern if your garden sees a lot of rain. Additionally, remember to use your collected water frequently—letting it sit too long can lead to stagnant water, which isn’t ideal for your plants.

Compost Not Breaking Down Properly

If your compost pile is still a lump of old veggies and grass after a few months, there might be an issue with the balance of green materials (like kitchen scraps) to brown materials (like dried leaves). Ideally, you want a 50/50 mix. Turn the pile regularly to aid the decomposition process, and be patient—good compost can take a few months depending on the climate.

Solar Limitations in Cloudy Climates

When it comes to solar energy, clouds can be a bit of a downer. In areas with less sun, like Seattle, consider hybrid systems where solar power is supplemented with another renewable energy source like wind. Or, for smaller needs, portable solar chargers or battery packs can still give you that renewable boost on sunnier days.

Pests and Diseases in Perennial Gardens

Perennials can sometimes be more susceptible to pests and diseases than annuals because they stay in the ground year-round. Rotate your plants’ locations when possible and consider planting pest-repellent companion plants nearby (think marigolds and garlic). Regularly inspect for signs of trouble, and treat naturally when needed. Your goal is to keep the garden’s ecosystem balanced so that pests and diseases don’t get the upper hand.

Advanced Tips: Maximizing the Value of Renewable Resources

Once you’ve got the basics down, there are tons of ways to really make the most of the renewable resources available to you. Here are a few advanced tips that can help you take your permaculture garden to the next level.

Harvesting Greywater

Greywater is the relatively clean water that comes from your sinks, showers, and laundry. With some simple plumbing, you can redirect greywater to your garden. Just be sure to use eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning products if you’re going this route—your plants will thank you for it!

Creating Windbreaks with Renewable Resources

If you’re in a windy area, use trees and shrubs as natural windbreaks instead of erecting man-made barriers. Trees are an incredible renewable resource, and by strategically planting them, you can protect more delicate plants, reduce erosion, and even save on heating costs by shielding your home from cold winds.

Utilizing Mycelium for Soil Health

Mycelium, or fungal networks, are crucial for breaking down organic matter and cycling nutrients through the soil. You can promote healthy mycelium growth by laying down wood chips or other organic material. This not only improves soil health and plant growth but also sequesters carbon, helping the environment on a larger scale.

Closed-Loop Systems: Efficiency at Its Best

A true permaculture dream is creating a closed-loop system where waste from one process becomes an input for another. For example, you could integrate chickens or rabbits into your garden, using their manure as fertilizer, composting their bedding, and feeding them scraps from the garden. The more closed your system is, the more renewable and self-sustaining it becomes.

Making It Work in Your Specific Space

Jessica, your Seattle garden might come with its own unique set of challenges and opportunities when using renewable resources. Here’s how to make the most of what you’ve got:

Consider Your Microclimate

Your backyard probably has areas that get more or less sunlight, or spots where water naturally pools. Pay attention to these details—plant your more sun-loving plants in the sunny spots and place your rain barrels where water tends to collect. Essentially, let the natural conditions guide your garden layout.

Integrate Native Plants

Native plants are a fantastic renewable resource because they’re already adapted to your local climate and soil. They generally require less water, fertilizer, and care, which makes them perfect for a sustainable garden. Use them as the backbone of your planting strategy, and then add in other possible plants based on your needs and preferences.

Start Small

It can be overwhelming to try to apply all these principles at once. Start with one or two small projects—like setting up a compost bin or installing a rain barrel—and build from there. Permaculture is a journey, not a destination, and every small step makes a big difference over time.

Learn From Your Garden

Your garden will tell you what it needs, and how well certain practices are working. Don’t be afraid to adapt and adjust. If one resource isn’t quite making the grade, experiment with another. Flexibility is key to thriving in permaculture.

Final Thoughts…

Jessica, thanks so much for reaching out with this fascinating question! “Using and Valuing Renewable Resources” is a fundamental part of any permaculture practice, and I’m excited for you to explore the ways it can benefit your Seattle backyard garden. Remember, renewable resources are all about sustainability and regeneration—things that give back more than they take.

Start small, observe your space, and let nature guide you. Before you know it, your garden will be a thriving, self-sustained eco-haven. Keep thinking about the long-term benefits, and remember: the smallest change can have significant ripple effects in creating a sustainable future. Happy gardening!