The term permaculture -- a combination the words "permanent" and "agriculture" -- was coined in 1978 by Australian ecologists Bill Mollison and David Holmgren. Permaculture aims to create harmonious, sustainable environments that integrate man, plants, animals and the earth, according to the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service. While permaculture often is associated with communal living, its principles can be used in a rural or urban setting to create a sustainable, organic garden that minimizes environmental impact.
Choose a site for your permaculture garden in a low-traffic but easily accessible area in your backyard, or request a plot in a local community garden.
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Determine the types of plants you want to grow. Research their sun or shade requirements and make sure they will work together for a harmonious ecosystem. A permaculture garden primarily incorporates perennials that produce fruit, vegetables or edible flowers. Companion planting attracts beneficial insects and worms while repelling garden pests.
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Loosen only the top layer of your garden plot, using hand tools. Over-tilling robs the soil of its nutrients and contributes to pollution, contrary to permaculture principles. Consider a raised bed for accessibility and drainage.
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Plant your seeds or starter plants in the garden.
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Collect rainwater with a barrel or bucket under gutter drains. Irrigate the garden with the collected water during dry weather. Permaculture emphasizes recycling and using all available natural resources.
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Make a compost pile or bin. Discard eggshells, coffee grounds, food leftovers, garden waste and other organic material in the compost pile. Fertilize your permaculture garden once the pile contents have properly decomposed.
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Maintain your garden by watering, mulching and harvesting. Never disturb the surface after the initial planting. Spread grass clippings and leaves on the garden for an easy, affordable mulch. Permaculture requires less maintenance than traditional gardens.
Tips & Warnings
Some permaculture gardens incorporate chickens, which help till the soil and control weeds. Check local ordinances about restrictions on backyards chickens, especially in urban areas.
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