In a natural ecosystem, all the creatures in the ecosystem interrelate, the waste products of some being used as building blocks for others. In a dynamic natural ecosystem there is a constant interaction between plant species, animal species and the soil micro-organisms.
Permaculture is a design method which aims to mimic a natural ecosystem as nearly as possible. It includes both permanent agriculture and permanent culture, and aims to find as many links as possible between all parts of the system.
For example, in a natural ecosystem, the leaves fall from the trees, and the soil micro-organisms break them down to form new soil. In a garden it is usual to dig up the weeds, take them to the compost heap, and leave them there to rot. When they have rotted down to compost, they are transferred back to the growing area. In a permaculture system, however, cardboard is placed on the weeds and covered with manure or compost. The weeds, cardboard and manure all rot down together, increasing the fertility of the soil. It is possible to build up soil where there was none before. Gardens can be made to bloom and fruit in very barren areas.
The key concepts of permaculture are earth care, people care, and the giving away of surplus. Neighbourhood and community projects are also very important, as part of the people care. The surplus to be given away can include produce from the garden, seeds for distribution, and ideas to share.
New economic ideas are also welcomed, and LETS Systems can also form part of a permaculture design for the community.
A conservatory gives space to grow food and also keeps a house warmer. Why not collect the rainwater from the roof and make a pond? Why not collect the 'grey water' from the bath and the sink, to go into a pond? Is it possible to use the nutrients from sewage to improve fertility of the land? These are the type of questions asked in permaculture.
Some people, including myself, have found permaculture ideas can permeate all areas of their lives. It has enhanced and complemented my religious beliefs.
- Patricia Knox, Pen Llywenan, Bodedern, Holyhead, Gwynedd, Wales LL65 4TS (tel 01407 740767).
- Permaculture Association, PO Box 1, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ1 10LH.
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