Permaculture is the design and maintenance of agriculturally productive ecosystems that replicate natural ecosystems’ stability, diversity and resilience whereas agroecology is a scientific discipline that studies the interactions between plants, animals, humans, and the environment in agricultural systems. Agroecologists study the ecological processes that govern agricultural systems, and use this … Read more
Greening a desert refers to introducing species that flourish in harsh conditions and improve the landscape by adding nitrogen, biomass, and other essential elements. Deserts are inhabitable ecosystems where it is difficult to set up agricultural systems. With permaculture, desert landscapes can be turned green and more productive. Developing permaculture … Read more
In the first year of a permaculture project, you can expect to spend a significant amount of time planning and designing your system. This will involve assessing the site on factors such as the climate, soil, and water availability, as well as the existing plants and animals in the area. … Read more
Permaculture can be a relatively expensive venture. The inputs of permaculture in the design and establishment phase are high. It is costly for farmers to transition from conventional techniques and adopt the processes and infrastructure required to live a sustainable lifestyle in permaculture. However, in the long-term, it is cheaper … Read more
Permaculture is better than conventional agriculture as it’s guided by principles of self-sufficiency, eco-friendliness and sustainability as it mimics natural systems. Permaculture farmers practice biomimicry, by adopting systems that are designed to allow nature to do the majority of the work. Essentially, permaculture aims to preserve the environment, while supporting … Read more
Resilience in permaculture refers to the ability of your system to produce consistent yield, even under adverse environmental conditions. Once you design your permaculture farm, it should be able to withstand pressure from external forces and hold its internal structure together. Essentially, permaculture will mimic forest ecosystems that have adapted … Read more
Food forests incorporate diverse ecosystems that resemble natural forests. They are an alternative to industrial food production techniques through the creation of access to healthy and sustainable nutrition. Food forestry is not very popular among farmers and gardeners, so it might be hard to find so good examples in your … Read more
Food forests are designed to mimic natural forests. You can grow different types of crops that mature at different times of the year. It is important to grow crops that mutually benefit from each other in terms of nutrients and pest and weed protection. You can incorporate a food forest … Read more
Food forests aim to utilize all potential growing space available to a farmer. They incorporate several vertical layers that allow efficient utilization of space. An appropriately designed system will not only produce enough food for yourself but also for your community. When designing a food forest, it is best to … Read more
These 20 perennials are easy to grow and will provide you with food for many years after you plant them: Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) Asparagus is a perennial vegetable adapted to USDA zones 3-10. It grows slowly and matures in 3-5 years. Harvesting is done in the spring. Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) … Read more