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Master the Art of Water Management & Soil Health Join us for a 4-hour hands-on workshop where you’ll learn how to design and build swales on contour—a key technique in permaculture and regenerative land management. Whether you're working on a large property, a homestead, or a sloped backyard, this immersive experience will equip you with practical skills to harness water efficiently while improving soil fertility. What You’ll Learn: How to use a laser level for precise contour mapping Hands-on swale-building techniques (by hand & with tools) Working with excavators (optional) for larger projects Core permaculture principles for sustainable land management Workshop Details: Date & Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Location: Girvan, NSW Cost: $150 (Includes a farm-fresh lunch) ONLY 15 SPOTS, BE QUICK! Who Should Attend? This workshop is perfect for beginners, homesteaders, landowners, and eco-conscious gardeners looking to create sustainable water systems for farms, food forests, or backyard gardens. Why Join Us? Hands-on experience with real-world applications Work alongside experts in permaculture & water management Gain confidence using the right tools for any landscape Network & collaborate with like-minded individuals Limited Spots Available! Secure your place today and take the first step toward a more sustainable and water-efficient future.

Gourd Art Birdhouse Workshop Transform nature into art while creating a cozy home for birds! Join us for a fun-filled, hands-on workshop where you’ll craft your very own gourd birdhouse! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to unleash your creativity. You’ll start with a farm-grown gourd, learn how to prepare and decorate it, and finish by turning it into a beautiful, functional birdhouse for your garden. Not only will you leave with a unique, eco-friendly creation, but you’ll also gain new skills in painting, crafting, and caring for the natural materials around you. Workshop Details • Date: Wed 15th January 2025 • Time:9-12 • Duration: 3 hours • Location: Vast Harvest Permaculture • Cost: $110 Adults • $70 Children 16 and under (Includes all materials, refreshments, and your take-home birdhouse) ✔️ Farm-Grown Gourds: Select from a variety of dried gourds grown on our permaculture farm. ✔️ Step-by-Step Guidance: Learn how to sand, prep, paint, and lacquer your gourd to make it weatherproof and garden-ready. ✔️ Creative Freedom: Decorate your birdhouse with your choice of colours and designs. ✔️ Assembly Tips: Finish your masterpiece with hardware for hanging. ✔️ Morning Tea: Enjoy light refreshments while you work. Why Gourd Birdhouses? • Eco-Friendly: Made from natural, sustainable materials. • Beneficial for Gardens: Attract birds that help control pests and pollinate plants. • Unique and Personalised: Create a birdhouse that reflects your style and adds charm to your outdoor space. What’s Included? • All materials (dried gourds, paints, brushes, hanging hardware, etc.) • Step-by-step guidance • Aprons and protective gear • Light refreshments and morning tea • A group photo to remember the fun! Who Should Attend? • No experience needed – just bring your creativity and a love for nature! • Great for individuals, families, and groups looking for a fun, creative day out. What to Bring: • Hat, sunscreen, and water for your comfort. • Your creativity and a smile! We’ll provide everything else. Come for the craft, leave with a masterpiece—and the skills to create more!

Experience a Personalised Farm Tour Like No Other Step into the beauty of Vast Harvest Permaculture with a private farm tour designed just for you and your small group. Wander through our thriving 25-acre permaculture farm, discover the secrets of food forests, medicinal plants, and sustainable living, and enjoy a relaxing, immersive experience in nature. Your journey includes a guided tour, farm-to-table refreshments, and plenty of time for questions and conversation. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an educational adventure, this intimate tour is tailored to your interests. Location: Vast Harvest Permaculture Duration: 2.5 hours Price: $110 per person (minimum 2 people) Bookings by appointment only Come explore, unwind, and be inspired by the magic of permaculture.

Sudachi Fruit If you’ve never heard of Sudachi before, you’re not alone. This small Japanese citrus is relatively unknown in Australia, but it’s highly prized in Japan for its intense aroma, bright acidity and incredible versatility in the kitchen. At Vast Harvest Permaculture, Sudachi has become one of our favourite citrus varieties and the star ingredient in our handcrafted Sudachi Marmalade. What is Sudachi? Sudachi is a small citrus fruit originating from Japan. While often compared to lemons, limes and yuzu, it has a flavour all of its own. The fruit is highly aromatic, with a fresh citrus fragrance and a tangy juice that can brighten almost any dish. Its unique flavour has made it a staple ingredient in Japanese cooking for generations. Sudachi Tree loaded with fruit What Does Sudachi Taste Like? Sudachi has a bright, tart citrus flavour with floral notes and a refreshing aroma. Many people describe it as somewhere between a lime, lemon and yuzu, although its flavour is distinctive enough to stand on its own. The juice is intensely flavoured, meaning a little goes a long way. How to Use Sudachi One of the things we love most about Sudachi is how versatile it is. Use fresh Sudachi juice: In sparkling water for a refreshing citrus drink Over seafood and grilled fish In salad dressings and marinades In baking and desserts In cocktails and mocktails Anywhere you would normally use lemon or lime The zest is also highly aromatic and can be used to add flavour to cakes, biscuits, sauces and preserves. The Citrus Behind Our Sudachi Marmalade Sudachi Marmalade using fresh Sudachi Many of our customers first discover Sudachi through our handcrafted Sudachi Marmalade. The bright citrus flavour of the fruit creates a marmalade that is sweet, tangy and packed with character. It’s delicious spread on toast, served with scones, paired with cheese or used as a glaze for meats and vegetables. If you’ve enjoyed our marmalade, trying the fresh fruit is a great way to experience the unique flavour that makes it so special. BUY ONLINE HERE A Special Harvest in 2026 Like many fruit trees, Sudachi crops can vary from year to year. Last season we barely harvested any fruit at all, with the birds enjoying most of the crop before we had a chance to pick it. This year has been a completely different story. Our trees are absolutely loaded with fruit and, for the first time, we have such a large harvest that we’re able to share fresh Sudachi with our customers. Fresh Sudachi will be available seasonally through our website and at our local stockist, Crafty Friends. Grown in Our Food Forest Our Sudachi trees are grown right here in our food forest at Vast Harvest Permaculture. Each fruit is grown naturally amongst the diversity of our food forest and harvested by hand when ready. Because fresh Sudachi is rarely available in Australia, this is a unique opportunity to experience one of Japan’s most loved citrus fruits straight from the tree. Try Sudachi for Yourself Whether you’re looking for something different for your kitchen, want to experiment with Japanese citrus, or simply love trying unusual fruits, Sudachi is well worth discovering. Fresh Sudachi is available for a limited time during the 2026 harvest season, along with our handcrafted Sudachi Marmalade made from fruit grown right here on our farm. Once you’ve tasted it, you’ll understand why this little citrus has become one of our favourite discoveries.

The Ice Cream Bean tree ( ) is a remarkable species known for its creamy, vanilla-flavored pulp and significant environmental benefits. Indigenous communities have relied on it for centuries as a food source. This tree also acts as a natural fertilizer through its nitrogen-fixing properties and serves as a valuable shade tree in agroforestry systems. Native to Central and South America, it is essential for sustainable agriculture, enriching soil and supporting biodiversity. Let’s explore the fascinating life of the Ice Cream Bean tree, from its ecological role to its culinary delights. Origins and Distribution The Ice Cream Bean tree originates from tropical regions of Central and South America. It has strongholds in Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil. Indigenous communities have long cultivated this tree for its nitrogen-fixing abilities, which help regenerate soil fertility. Over time, it has spread globally. It is now gaining traction in Southeast Asia, Africa, and the United States due to the popularity of agroforestry and exotic fruit farming. Farmers and horticulturists appreciate its fast growth and ability to thrive in diverse climates, making it a versatile addition to various agricultural systems. Soil Enrichment As a legume, the Ice Cream Bean tree plays a vital role in fixing nitrogen in the soil. This process reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers and promotes soil health through the rapid decomposition of its fallen leaves. The nutrients returned to the ecosystem improve soil structure and boost microbial activity. Consequently, this enhances overall soil fertility, making it an excellent companion plant for other crops. Role of Nitrogen-Fixing This nitrogen-fixing ability is critical for sustainable agriculture. It means farmers can cultivate crops without relying heavily on chemical fertilizers. This not only cuts costs but also protects the environment. The Ice Cream Bean tree naturally enriches the soil, creating a healthier growth environment. Shade and Companion Planting Farmers often use Ice Cream Bean trees to provide shade for cacao, coffee, and other shade-loving crops. The tree’s thick canopy reduces soil erosion and helps retain soil moisture, which benefits neighboring plants. Its broad leaves offer protection from harsh sunlight, creating a more stable microclimate that fosters plant health and productivity. Benefits of Companion Planting Companion planting is a fantastic strategy for enhancing crop yields. By planting the Ice Cream Bean tree alongside other crops, farmers create a thriving ecosystem. This technique allows multiple plants to benefit from each other, leading to healthier and more productive farms. Reforestation and Living Fences The Ice Cream Bean tree is frequently planted in reforestation projects due to its rapid growth and adaptability. Additionally, some farmers use Inga edulis as a living fence, creating natural windbreaks and barriers for livestock. Its deep root system helps prevent soil degradation, making it a valuable tool in combating deforestation and restoring degraded land. Importance of Reforestation Reforestation plays a critical role in combating climate change. The Ice Cream Bean tree, with its quick growth, is ideal for these projects. As more trees are planted, they absorb carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. Culinary Uses The sweet, fluffy pulp of the Ice Cream Bean pod is best enjoyed fresh. However, it can also be incorporated into creative recipes: Smoothies & Shakes Blend the pulp with bananas, coconut milk, and honey for a delicious tropical treat. Ice Cream Flavoring True to its name, the pulp can be used in homemade ice cream to create a unique, natural sweetness. Dessert Garnish Sprinkle the pulp on cakes, pastries, or fruit salads to add a mild tropical flavor. While the seeds are not commonly consumed, they can be roasted and eaten in some regions, offering another food source. Medicinal and Traditional Uses Beyond its role as a food source, the Ice Cream Bean tree has been used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. Indigenous groups have utilized various parts of the tree, including its bark and leaves, to treat ailments such as inflammation, stomach issues, and infections. The antioxidant-rich properties of the pulp may also support immune function and overall health. Potential Health Benefits The various health benefits attributed to Inga edulis are worth exploring. Although scientific studies may be limited, traditional knowledge suggests that this tree can be a powerful ally in natural healing. Environmental Impact and Sustainable Agriculture Due to its rapid growth and nitrogen-fixing capabilities, the Ice Cream Bean tree plays a crucial role in sustainable agriculture. It helps restore degraded soils and serves as an excellent choice for agroforestry systems that prioritize ecological balance and biodiversity. By planting Inga edulis alongside staple crops, farmers can reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers and improve long-term soil health. Enhancing Soil Moisture Retention Additionally, the tree’s ability to provide organic matter through leaf litter enhances soil moisture retention, reducing the need for irrigation. Its extensive root system stabilizes soil, preventing erosion in areas prone to land degradation. This makes the Ice Cream Bean tree an invaluable asset in climate-resilient farming strategies. How to Grow the Ice Cream Bean Tree Growing an Ice Cream Bean tree is relatively easy, especially in warm and humid climates. Here are some key tips for successful cultivation: Climate & Soil : The tree thrives in tropical and subtropical regions with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Propagation : It is commonly grown from seeds, which should be planted fresh for higher germination rates. Seeds lose viability quickly, so it’s best to plant them soon after extraction. Watering : Young trees require regular watering, but once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant. Pruning & Maintenance : Occasional pruning helps maintain a manageable size and encourages strong branching. Pests & Diseases : While generally hardy, the tree may attract pests like caterpillars and aphids. Natural predators and organic insecticides can help keep infestations in check. Conclusion The Ice Cream Bean tree is a shining example of a plant that offers both ecological and culinary benefits. Whether used for soil enrichment, shade, reforestation, or as a delicious tropical fruit, Inga edulis is a valuable addition to sustainable farming and permaculture practices. As interest in agroforestry and regenerative agriculture continues to grow, this remarkable tree will likely gain even more appreciation worldwide. Its ability to support biodiversity, provide nutritious food, and restore degraded landscapes makes it an essential component of eco-friendly farming for the future. Whether you are a farmer, gardener, or simply a lover of exotic fruits, the Ice Cream Bean tree is a fantastic species to explore and cultivate.

There are plants you grow because they look nice… and then there are plants you grow because they solve problems. In this guide, I’ll show you how to grow Shark Fin Gourd in Australia, where to plant it, how to trellis it, when to harvest, and how to store it for months. At a glance Type: Vigorous climbing squash (Cucurbita ficifolia) Also called: Shark Fin Melon, Fig Leaf Gourd, Chilacayote/Cidra Best feature: Long storage + strand texture when cooked Best setup: Strong trellis/pergola/fence line Best use: Soups, curries, stews, slow-cooked meals Prefer to watch? Jump to the harvest video ↓ If you love high-yield, low-fuss plants that earn their keep in a permaculture system, Shark Fin Gourd deserves a spot on your radar. It’s one of those “why doesn’t everyone grow this?” vines, it climbs when you give it structure, it produces like it means it, and it stores well enough to keep feeding you long after the season has moved on. In a permaculture system, that matters because the goal isn’t just a pretty garden. It’s resilience, abundance, and food that shows up when you need it. Whole Shark Fin Gourd with green and cream speckled skin Also known as Shark Fin Melon or Fig-leaf Gourd , this vigorous climbing squash produces hefty fruits that store brilliantly, and the flesh cooks into long strands that soak up flavour (which is exactly why it’s been used in soups and traditional recipes around the world). This vine can be bold (some would say rude ), so the secret is simple: don’t fight it, give it a job. Train it up, let it shade what needs shading, let it turn vertical space into food, and you’ve got a plant that feels like a partner rather than a pest. What is Shark Fin Gourd? Shark Fin Gourd ( Cucurbita ficifolia ) is a vigorous climbing squash with distinctive fig-shaped leaves and serious productivity. Depending on where you live, you’ll hear it called a bunch of different names, including: Shark Fin Gourd cut in half showing pale flesh and black seeds Fig-leaf gourd / fig-leaved gourd Shark fin melon Chilacayote / cidra (and other regional names) What makes it stand out isn’t that it’s rare or fancy. It’s that it’s useful . In plain English: it’s a big, productive vine that can be grown like other cucurbits (pumpkins, squash, zucchini), but it stands out for two main reasons: Storage: it keeps well like a winter squash, the kind of harvest that turns into “future meals.” Texture: when cooked, the flesh can form long strands that carry flavour beautifully (great for soups, fillings, and slow-cooked dishes). If you like plants that pull their weight, this one belongs on your list. Why it fits permaculture so well Permaculture rewards plants that do more than one thing. Shark Fin Gourd ticks several boxes, not because it’s trendy or rare, but because it’s genuinely useful. 1) It turns vertical space into food If you’ve got trellises, fences, pergolas, arches, even awkward corners, this vine can transform “unused air” into a harvest. Give it a trellis and it’ll climb. 2) It gives you bulk harvests you can actually use Some crops are cute but fiddly. This one is more like a staple: the kind of thing you can cook into soups, curries, stews, and slow meals that feed a household. 3) Long storage = food security This is a “harvest now, eat later” plant. When mature and stored correctly, the fruits can keep for months, which means you’re not relying on the garden being perfect every single week. 4) A practical kitchen vegetable (not just pretty) This isn’t a fragile novelty crop. The flavour is mild and flexible, which means it works in everyday cooking, especially anything with broth, spices, or slow simmering. 5) It teaches the permaculture lesson most people avoid You don’t control nature, you design with it . If you try to grow this vine without a plan, you’ll resent it. If you give it a structure and a lane to run in, it becomes one of the most satisfying growers in the garden. Where to grow it (give it a job) This is where most people go wrong. Shark Fin Gourd doesn’t belong “somewhere in the middle of everything.” It’s happiest when you plan for its size instead of fighting it , and it belongs where it can be directed . Best placements Along a strong trellis at the edge of the garden Over a pergola for seasonal shade (and even summer shade) Along a fence line that needs covering Near a compost area or rich soil zone (it will use the fertility) On the sunny side of a structure where it can climb without smothering everything else In a transition zone between veggie beds and the food forest/orchard (great use of “in-between” space) Avoid Lightweight trellises (it gets heavy) Tiny/tight beds where the vine will spill into everything Anywhere you can’t easily access for harvesting How to grow Shark Fin Gourd (simple guide) Shark Fin Gourd Harvest When to plant (Australia) Plant once the weather has properly warmed and frost risk has passed. This is a warm-season vine and it won’t thank you for cold soil. Temperate + warm areas: spring onwards Hotter climates: you can start earlier, before the full heat of summer arrives Sowing + spacing You can direct sow or start in pots, both work. Sow about 1.5 cm deep Allow generous spacing (or plan one plant per trellis section ) Keep soil evenly moist while germinating As a rough guide, give it around 1–1.5 m in all directions if it’s going to sprawl Germination For fastest germination, it likes warm soil. Once it’s up and established, it grows quickly. Sun, soil, and water Sun: full sun is ideal, but it can cope with some part shade Soil: it’s not precious, but like any heavy producer, it rewards better soil Water: steady moisture is your friend; don’t swing between drought and flood Trellis (don’t under-build it) Think sturdy. Treat it like a pumpkin with ambition. Use heavy-duty supports that can handle weight and wind Tie and train young growth early (don’t wait until it’s a tangled mess) If fruit sets up high, use simple slings (cloth/mesh, old stockings, mesh bags) to support the load and reduce strain Pests and Problems No plant is “no maintenance”, but this one can be surprisingly forgiving.   What to watch: Frost: it won’t tolerate it Seedling pests: birds, chewing insects, and sap-suckers can smash young plants Aphids: keep airflow up and manage early   A useful bonus: many growers find it less prone to powdery mildew than other cucurbits, but like anything, airflow and weather still matter. Harvesting, curing, and storage (the part most people skip) When to harvest Harvested Shark Fin Gourds in a tub Harvest when the plant is clearly finishing up and the fruit is mature: stems toughen and become woody , and/or the vine foliage starts drying off toward the end of the season   How to harvest Cut the fruit with a knife/secateurs Leave 5–10 cm of stem attached (this matters for storage)   Cure for better keeping Cure the fruit for about a week in an airy spot out of direct sun and away from cold snaps. This hardens the skin and improves storage.   Storage conditions Store in a cool, dry, frost-free place. Check fruit occasionally and use anything that shows signs of soft spots first. Download the PDF growing guide here: How to use Shark Fin Gourd in the kitchen   If you’ve never cooked it, here’s the easiest way to understand it: The flavour is mild (think “squash family”), and The magic is in the texture it forms strands when cooked.   Simple ways to use it Stringy Flesh of the Shark Fin Gourd Add to soups, curries, and stews (it absorbs flavour brilliantly) Cook and pull into strands, then use like a vegetable “noodle” base Slow-cook it with broth, aromatics, and spices   Traditional uses (fun fact)   In some cuisines the strand texture is used in soups as a substitute for the texture people associate with “shark fin” style soup, which is where the common name comes from.   It’s also used in sweets and preserves in different parts of the world (the strands lend themselves to that “threaded” jam style). Watch the harvest video ▶️ Watch the harvest walkthrough: Watch the Shark Fin Gourd Harvest on YouTube Want to see what Shark Fin Gourd looks like when it’s actually ready ? In this harvest walkthrough I show: what to look for on the vine what the fruit looks like up close and why it’s such a useful “grow once, eat later” crop Question for you: Would you grow this vine in your garden? Why or why not? FAQ: Shark Fin Gourd (quick answers) Is Shark Fin Gourd the same as Shark Fin Melon? Yes, these names are commonly used for Cucurbita ficifolia .   Does it need a trellis? It doesn’t need one, but it’s often the smartest way to grow it. A trellis saves space, improves airflow, and makes harvesting easier.   How long does it take to mature? Treat it like a winter squash: it needs a full warm season to mature properly.   How long will it store? With proper maturity and storage conditions, it can keep for months (sometimes longer).   Is it worth growing in a small garden? Only if you grow vertically and you’re willing to give it a dedicated structure. If you try to squeeze it into a tiny bed, you’ll spend the season annoyed. Want to grow it? We sometimes have seeds available here: