Permaculture is a holistic design philosophy that integrates nature’s patterns and principles into sustainable agriculture and living systems. At Vast Harvest Permaculture, we’ve embraced these principles to create a flourishing system that not only feeds us but also regenerates the land. By incorporating permanent, sustainable agriculture methods and innovative water management systems like swales, we’ve developed a landscape that thrives year-round.
The 12 Principles of Permaculture
Developed by David Holmgren, the 12 principles of permaculture provide a framework for designing resilient and sustainable systems. Here’s an overview of each principle and how we apply them at Vast Harvest Permaculture:
Observe and Interact:
Before planting or building, we spend time observing the land’s natural patterns—sunlight, wind, water flow, and soil health.
By understanding our environment, we design systems that work with nature rather than against it.
Catch and Store Energy:
Solar panels on our farm generate renewable energy.
We use swales to capture and store rainwater, ensuring a steady water supply for dry periods.
Obtain a Yield:
Every element in our system—from chickens to fruit trees—provides a yield, whether it’s food, fertilizer, or shade.
Our permaculture garden produces vegetables, herbs, and perennial crops that sustain us year-round.
Apply Self-Regulation and Accept Feedback:
We monitor our systems regularly and make adjustments as needed. For example, if a crop underperforms, we evaluate its location or soil needs.
Feedback from nature guides us to improve and adapt.
Use and Value Renewable Resources and Services:
Composting transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich soil.
Our livestock—such as chickens—provide eggs, pest control, and natural fertilizer.
Produce No Waste:
Nothing goes to waste on our farm. Food scraps feed the chickens, while pruned branches are used as mulch or added to hugelkultur beds.
Greywater is reused for irrigation.
Design from Patterns to Details:
We observe large-scale patterns such as wind direction and water flow before focusing on specific plant placements or garden layouts.
For instance, our contour-aligned swales reflect the natural shape of the hillside.
Integrate Rather than Segregate:
Companion planting combines crops like tomatoes and basil for mutual benefit.
Our systems integrate livestock, plants, and natural habitats, fostering biodiversity.
Use Small and Slow Solutions:
Starting with manageable projects allows us to refine systems before scaling up.
Slow solutions, such as building soil health over time, lead to long-lasting results.
Use and Value Diversity:
We grow a wide range of crops, from native plants to exotic perennials, reducing the risk of crop failure.
Biodiversity attracts beneficial insects and pollinators while deterring pests.
Use Edges and Value the Marginal:
The edges of our swales and ponds are planted with species that thrive in moist conditions, maximizing productivity.
Marginal areas are used for wildflowers that support pollinators and enhance biodiversity.
Creatively Use and Respond to Change:
As climate patterns shift, we adapt by selecting drought-resistant crops and improving water storage.
Flexibility ensures our systems remain resilient.
Swale Systems: Efficient Water Management
One of the most transformative practices at Vast Harvest Permaculture is our swale system. Swales are shallow, level ditches dug along the contour of a hillside to capture and distribute rainwater. Here’s how they work and why they’re essential:
Following Contours for Water Distribution:
Swales are dug level along the natural contours of a hillside, ensuring that water moves slowly and evenly across the landscape.
By following the contours, swales prevent runoff and erosion, allowing rainwater to seep into the soil rather than flow away.
Benefits of Swales:
Water Storage:Â During heavy rains, swales capture water and allow it to infiltrate the soil, recharging groundwater reserves.
Improved Soil Health:Â Moist soil around swales promotes microbial activity and plant growth.
Erosion Control:Â Swales reduce the impact of rain on exposed soil, preventing loss of valuable topsoil.
Integration with Planting:
At Vast Harvest Permaculture, we plant trees, shrubs, and ground covers along the berms (raised mounds) of our swales.
Deep-rooted plants like fruit trees stabilize the soil and draw up nutrients, while ground covers prevent weeds and retain moisture.
Case Study: Hillside Swale System:
On one of our steeper slopes, we installed a series of swales spaced about 5 meters apart. After a season of rainfall, we noticed significant improvements in water retention and plant growth.
Native grasses and legumes planted on the berms have thrived, enriching the soil with nitrogen and organic matter.
Permanent Sustainable Agriculture in Action
Our commitment to permanent, sustainable agriculture is evident in every aspect of Vast Harvest Permaculture. Here are some key practices that keep our system thriving:
Perennial Crops:
Unlike annual crops, perennials like fruit trees, asparagus, and artichokes require less maintenance and improve soil health over time.
These crops form the backbone of our food production.
Integrated Livestock Systems:
Chickens, ducks, and sheep are integrated into our permaculture design. They provide food, manage pests, and fertilize the soil.
Rotational grazing ensures pastures remain healthy and productive.
Hugelkultur Beds:
We build hugelkultur beds by layering logs, branches, and organic matter. These raised beds retain moisture, improve drainage, and slowly release nutrients.
Polyculture Gardens:
Polyculture systems mimic natural ecosystems by growing multiple species together. This reduces pests, weeds, and the need for chemical inputs.
Native Plants:
Incorporating native plants supports local wildlife, conserves water, and reduces maintenance requirements.
The Power of Permaculture
At Vast Harvest Permaculture, the 12 principles guide every decision we make, from planting trees to managing water. By working with nature and embracing techniques like swale systems, we’ve created a resilient, sustainable farm that nourishes both people and the planet. Whether you’re starting your first garden or managing a large property, these principles can help you design a thriving permaculture system that stands the test of time.
Let’s grow together, learn from the land, and leave a legacy of abundance for future generations.
We invite you to come out to Vast Harvest Permaculture Farm for a tour. See our systems in action, learn about sustainable agriculture, and discover how you can apply these principles to your own land. Experience firsthand the beauty and functionality of a thriving permaculture system—we’d love to share our journey with you!
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