PERMACULTURE
For us sustainability is key to permaculture--if we cannot easily maintain a system, we know it won't be permanent. So we incorporate hugelkultur into raised beds and expect the woody materials we put in the ground to last at least 10 years, without significant other inputs. We are gradually adding to our raised beds in and around our fruit trees with the expectation they will grow together efficiently and allow us to grow leafy greens even in the hottest part of summer. This sort of long-term companion growing is part and parcel to our approach. Other important factors are the use of biochar, rain water capture and automated, solar-driven watering systems.
ORGANIC FERTILIZER
We make liquid organic fertilizer from horsetail & comfrey, as well as more traditional compost using worms...the end result as you can see below is bountiful vegetables throughout the season. We also find that the robust plants and companion planting help repel pests so we are never even tempted to use organic pesticides. An ounce of prevention, as the saying goes.
MOUND CULTURE
'HÜGELKULTUR'
Hügelkultur is a gardening technique that involves creating raised beds by layering decomposing wood, organic matter, and soil. As the wood breaks down, it provides nutrients and retains moisture for plants, making it an eco-friendly and sustainable way to cultivate crops. This method is particularly useful in arid climates and can improve soil fertility over time.
LASAGNA
Soil-compost Layers
This method of alternating layers of soil and "hot" vegetable material and completed compost helps turbocharge the bed for that year, providing a natural slow-release nitrogen, while also insulating the soil and plant roots from the elements--drying sun, temperature shock and invasion of weeds. The extra work it takes to set up pays off dividends throughout the year.
BIO CHARCOAL
SELFMADE
We make our own biochar all winter long by shutting off oxygen to the wood stove in the log house at night. Using biochar, adding compost and rotting tatami every year allows us to improve our heavy clay soil bit by bit and thus reduce the amount of work and improve plant health.