PERMACUL
PERMACULTURE DESIG
TURE DESIGN
N
CERTIFICATE COURSE
CERTIFICATE COURSE
COURSE OUTLINE
COURSE OUTLINE
Section 1: Introduction
Section 1: Introduction
Permaculture Ethics: Permaculture Ethics:
“Care of the Earth”
“Care of the Earth” ―― includes all living and non-living things, such as animals, plants, land, water, andincludes all living and non-living things, such as animals, plants, land, water, and air.
air.
“Care of People”
“Care of People” ―― promotes self-reliance and community responsibility.promotes self-reliance and community responsibility. “Give Away Surplus”
“Give Away Surplus” ―― pass on anything surplus to our pass on anything surplus to our needs (labor, money, information) for the aboveneeds (labor, money, information) for the above aims.
aims.
Implicit in the above is the “Life Ethic”: all living organisms are not only means but ends. In addition to Implicit in the above is the “Life Ethic”: all living organisms are not only means but ends. In addition to their instrumental value to humans and other living organisms, they have an
their instrumental value to humans and other living organisms, they have an intrinsicintrinsicworth.worth.
Permaculture is an ethical system, stressing positivism and cooperation. Permaculture is an ethical system, stressing positivism and cooperation.
Section 2: Principles of Natural
Section 2: Principles of Natural Systems and Design
Systems and Design
Guiding principles of permaculture design: Guiding principles of permaculture design:
•
• Everything is connected to everything elseEverything is connected to everything else •
• Every function is supported by many elementsEvery function is supported by many elements •
• Every element should serve many functionsEvery element should serve many functions
What is design? It is composed of two elements: aesthetics and function. Permaculture design What is design? It is composed of two elements: aesthetics and function. Permaculture design concen-trates on
trates on functionfunction..
Functional design is: Functional design is: 1. Sustainable
1. Sustainable ―― it provides for its own needsit provides for its own needs 2.
2. Provides good Provides good product yield, product yield, or even suor even surplus yield. This rplus yield. This happens when elements happens when elements have no prohave no prod- d-uct unused by other
uct unused by other elements, elements, and they have their own needs supplied by other and they have their own needs supplied by other elements inelements in the system.
the system.
If these criteria are not met, then
If these criteria are not met, then pollutionpollution andandworkworkresult. result. Pollution is a product Pollution is a product not used by not used by some- some-thing else; it is an over-abundance of
thing else; it is an over-abundance of a resource. a resource. Work results when there is a Work results when there is a deficiency of resourcesdeficiency of resources and when an element in the system does not
and when an element in the system does not aid another element. aid another element. Any system will become chaotic if itAny system will become chaotic if it receives more resources then it can
receives more resources then it can productivelyproductivelyuse (e.g. too much fertilizer can result in pollution).use (e.g. too much fertilizer can result in pollution).
A resource is any energy storage
A resource is any energy storage which assists yield. which assists yield. The work of the permaculture deThe work of the permaculture designer is to maxi-signer is to maxi-mize useful energy storages in any system on which they are working, be it house, urban property, rural mize useful energy storages in any system on which they are working, be it house, urban property, rural
lands, or gardens.
lands, or gardens. A successful design contains enough useful stA successful design contains enough useful storages to serve the needs of orages to serve the needs of people.people. Diversity is related to stability.
Diversity is related to stability. It is not, however, the number It is not, however, the number of diverse elements you can pack into of diverse elements you can pack into aa system, but rather the
system, but rather the useful connectionsuseful connectionsyou can make between these elements.you can make between these elements.
From source to sink: From source to sink:
•
• Diversity increasesDiversity increases •
• Energy stores increaseEnergy stores increase •
• Organizational complexity increasesOrganizational complexity increases
Chaos or Disorder
Chaos or Disorder Principle:Principle:If resources are added beyond the capacity If resources are added beyond the capacity of the system to productivelyof the system to productively use them, then that system becomes
use them, then that system becomes disordered (goes into chaos).disordered (goes into chaos). Chaos or disorder is the opposite
Chaos or disorder is the opposite of harmony, as competition is the opposite of of harmony, as competition is the opposite of cooperation. cooperation. In disorderIn disorder much useful energy is canceled out by the use of opposing energy, thus creating entropy or bound much useful energy is canceled out by the use of opposing energy, thus creating entropy or bound en-ergy.
ergy.
Society, gardens, whole systems and human lives are
Society, gardens, whole systems and human lives are wasted in disorder and opposition. wasted in disorder and opposition. The aim ofThe aim of the designer is therefore two-fold:
the designer is therefore two-fold: •
• To use only that amount of energy that can be productively absorbed by the system.To use only that amount of energy that can be productively absorbed by the system. •
• To build harmony, as cooperation, into To build harmony, as cooperation, into the functional organization of the system.the functional organization of the system.
Methodologies of Design Methodologies of Design
Permaculture design emphasizes
Permaculture design emphasizes patterningpatterningof landscape, function, of landscape, function, and species assemblies. and species assemblies. It asksIt asks the question, “
the question, “WhereWhere does this (element) go? How is it placed for maximum benefit in the system?does this (element) go? How is it placed for maximum benefit in the system?
Permaculture is made up of techniques and strategies: Permaculture is made up of techniques and strategies:
•
• Techniques: concerned withTechniques: concerned withhowhowto do things (one dimensional) e.g. organic gardeningto do things (one dimensional) e.g. organic gardening •
• Strategies: concerned withStrategies: concerned withhowhowandandwhenwhen(two dimensional) e.g. Fukuoka system(two dimensional) e.g. Fukuoka system •
• Design: concerned withDesign: concerned with patterningpatterning (multi-dimensional) e.g. permaculture(multi-dimensional) e.g. permaculture
Approaches to Design: Approaches to Design:
1.
1. Maps Maps (“Where (“Where is is everything?”)everything?”) 2.
2. Analysis of Analysis of elements (elements (“How do “How do these these things things connect?”)connect?”) 3.
3. Sector Sector planning planning (“Where (“Where do do we we put put things?”)things?”) 4. Observational
4. Observational 5. Experiential 5. Experiential
1) Maps
1) Maps(be careful- the “map” is not (be careful- the “map” is not the territory”)the territory”) Must make observationMust make observationss..
Sequence of maps valuable to see clearly where to place many elements. Clear overlays to plan: Sequence of maps valuable to see clearly where to place many elements. Clear overlays to plan: Ac-cess, Water, Buildings, Topology.
cess, Water, Buildings, Topology.
2) Analysis of Elements 2) Analysis of Elements
An analytical approach: list the
An analytical approach: list the needs, products, and the intrinsic characteristics of each elemenneeds, products, and the intrinsic characteristics of each elemen t. This ist. This is done on paper. Lists are made to try to supply (by some other element in the system) the needs of any done on paper. Lists are made to try to supply (by some other element in the system) the needs of any
particular element. particular element.
Experiment on paper with connecting and combining the elements (buildings, plants, animals, etc) to Experiment on paper with connecting and combining the elements (buildings, plants, animals, etc) to achieve no pollution (excess of product) and minimum work. Try to have one element fulfill the needs of achieve no pollution (excess of product) and minimum work. Try to have one element fulfill the needs of another element.
another element.
3) Sector
3) Sector PlanningPlanning
Sector planning includes (a)
Sector planning includes (a) zones, (b) sector, (c) slope, and (d) orientationzones, (b) sector, (c) slope, and (d) orientation (a)
(a) Zones: It is useful to coZones: It is useful to consider the site as a series of zones nsider the site as a series of zones (which can be concentric rings) (which can be concentric rings) thatthat form a single pathway through the
form a single pathway through the system that moves outward from the homsystem that moves outward from the home center. The place-e center. The place-ment of eleplace-ments in each zone depends on importance, priorities, and number of visits needed ment of elements in each zone depends on importance, priorities, and number of visits needed for each element. E.g. a chicken house is visited every day, so it needs to be close (but not for each element. E.g. a chicken house is visited every day, so it needs to be close (but not nec-essarily next to the house). A herb garden would be close to the kitchen.
essarily next to the house). A herb garden would be close to the kitchen. Zone I:
Zone I: •
• Home centerHome center •
• Herbs, vegetable gardenHerbs, vegetable garden •
• Most structuresMost structures •
• Very intensiveVery intensive •
• Starts with “back steps”Starts with “back steps” Zone II:
Zone II: •
• Intensively cultivatedIntensively cultivated •
• Heavily mulched orchardHeavily mulched orchard •
• Well maintainedWell maintained •
• Mainly grafted and selected speciesMainly grafted and selected species •
• Dense PlantingDense Planting •
• Use stacking; storeysUse stacking; storeys •
• Some animals: chickens, ducks, pigeon, quailSome animals: chickens, ducks, pigeon, quail •
• Multi-purpose walks: collect eggs, milk, distribute greens and scrapsMulti-purpose walks: collect eggs, milk, distribute greens and scraps
Zone III: Zone III:
Connect to Zone I and
Connect to Zone I and II for easy access.II for easy access. •
• May add goats, geese, sheep, beesMay add goats, geese, sheep, bees •
• Plant hardy trees and bush speciesPlant hardy trees and bush species •
• Ungrafted for later selection, later graft-Ungrafted for later selection, later graft-ing
ing •
• Animal forageAnimal forage •
• Self-forage system: poultry forest, etcSelf-forage system: poultry forest, etc •
• Windbreaks, firebreaksWindbreaks, firebreaks •
• Spot mulching, rough mulchingSpot mulching, rough mulching •
• Trees protected with cages, strip-Trees protected with cages, strip-fencing
fencing •
• Nut tree forestsNut tree forests Zone IV:
Zone IV: •
• Long term developmentLong term development •
• Timber for buildingTimber for building •
• Timber for firewoodTimber for firewood •
• Watering minimalWatering minimal •
• Feeding minimalFeeding minimal
Some introduced animals: cattle, deer, pigs Some introduced animals: cattle, deer, pigs
Zone V: Zone V:
•
• Uncultivated bushUncultivated bush •
• Re-growthRe-growth
Species, elements, and strategies change in each zone. Species, elements, and strategies change in each zone.
(a)
(a) Sectors: the aim of sector Sectors: the aim of sector planning is to channel external energies (wind, sun, planning is to channel external energies (wind, sun, fire) into or awayfire) into or away from the
from the system. system. The zone The zone andand sector factors together regulate sector factors together regulate the placement of particular plant the placement of particular plant species and structures.
species and structures. (b)
(b) Slope: placement Slope: placement of an of an elementelement on slope so that gravity is used to on slope so that gravity is used to maximum capacity.
maximum capacity. •
• Water storagesWater storages •
• Mulch and otherMulch and other materials materials (kick-down)
down) •
• Cold air fall; warmCold air fall; warm air rise
air rise (c)
(c) Orientation: Orientation: placement of placement of an ele-an ele-ment so that it faces sun-side or ment so that it faces sun-side or shade-side depending on its shade-side depending on its func-tion and needs.
tion and needs.
4) Observational 4) Observational
Free thinking or thematic thinking (e.g. on Free thinking or thematic thinking (e.g. on blackberry or bracken)
blackberry or bracken) (a)
(a) Note Note phenomenonphenomenon (b)
(b) Infer Infer (make (make guesses)guesses) (c)
(c) Investigate Investigate (research)(research) (d)
(d) Devise Devise a a strategystrategy
5) Experiential 5) Experiential
Become conscious of your
Become conscious of yourself, feelings, environment. self, feelings, environment. Can be free-conscious Can be free-conscious or thematically-conscious.or thematically-conscious. Zazen- walking without thinking, unreflective.
Zazen- walking without thinking, unreflective.
Putting It Together: Use all the methodologies of design. Putting It Together: Use all the methodologies of design. Select
Select elements elements - - pattern pattern assemblyassembly (line cutoff)
(line cutoff)
Section 3: Pattern In Design
Section 3: Pattern In Design
The world is a sequence of events within a pattern. All things spiral through the pattern. In pattern The world is a sequence of events within a pattern. All things spiral through the pattern. In pattern appli-cation, there are two aspects: 1) the perception
cation, there are two aspects: 1) the perception of the patterns that already exist (and of the patterns that already exist (and how these func-how these func-tion), and 2) the imposition of pattern on sites in order to achieve specific needs.
Zone and sector planning are examples of pattern application. Zone and sector planning are examples of pattern application.
A) Edge effects and
A) Edge effects and harmonicsharmonics
Edge effect: the interface between two ecosystems represents a
Edge effect: the interface between two ecosystems represents a third, more complex system whichthird, more complex system which combines both. The interface, or edge, receives
combines both. The interface, or edge, receives more light and nutrients and so more light and nutrients and so is more productive.is more productive. Harmonics and area: increase in linear effects while the area is constrained.
Harmonics and area: increase in linear effects while the area is constrained. Low productivity (square, circle pond)
Low productivity (square, circle pond)
Productivity increase as the shape of the pond is changed to produce more “margin” or edge. The Productivity increase as the shape of the pond is changed to produce more “margin” or edge. The num-ber of plants around the edge may almost double, and so may the numnum-ber of fish since they are mainly ber of plants around the edge may almost double, and so may the number of fish since they are mainly marginal feeders.
marginal feeders.
Other examples of patterning with edge include: Other examples of patterning with edge include:
•
• Circle garden rather than linear garden (saves Circle garden rather than linear garden (saves space and water)space and water) •
• Trellis on zig-zag pattern rather than straight liTrellis on zig-zag pattern rather than straight linene
•
• Crops planted in strips and contours with companionable crop in between strips (crops receiveCrops planted in strips and contours with companionable crop in between strips (crops receive more light for photosynthesis and yield is high for both)
more light for photosynthesis and yield is high for both) •
• Windbreak can be planted either to deflect wind or to funnel it into a gap for wind power.Windbreak can be planted either to deflect wind or to funnel it into a gap for wind power. •
Species edge possibilities are determined by whether plants/animals are compatible. E.g. wheat planted Species edge possibilities are determined by whether plants/animals are compatible. E.g. wheat planted with Lucerne (alfalfa) will increase yield, while yields decrease if planted with Brassica.
with Lucerne (alfalfa) will increase yield, while yields decrease if planted with Brassica.
B) Flow Patterns B) Flow Patterns
Can use pattern in river flow to scour deep ponds, to accumulate Can use pattern in river flow to scour deep ponds, to accumulate mulch on edges, and to build up a layer of
mulch on edges, and to build up a layer of silt. (A)silt. (A)
Mulch and silt accumulates during the Mulch and silt accumulates during the flood phase of the river, but trees must flood phase of the river, but trees must be planted to catch this accumulation. be planted to catch this accumulation. (B)
(B)
Aboriginal tribal song pattern shows a Aboriginal tribal song pattern shows a map of desert with wadis and map of desert with wadis and salt-bushes. Pattern and song are used bushes. Pattern and song are used to-gether to find one’s way in a desert gether to find one’s way in a desert landscape. (C)
landscape. (C)
Section 4: Forests and Trees
Section 4: Forests and Trees
Trees as Energy Transducers: Wind, Sun, and Rainfall Trees as Energy Transducers: Wind, Sun, and Rainfall
Wind Wind
1.
1. 40% 40% of of incoming incoming wind wind is is forcedforced through the trees, friction causes through the trees, friction causes heat inside the forest (no frost). heat inside the forest (no frost). Outside trees have thicker trunks Outside trees have thicker trunks due to wind force; inner trunks due to wind force; inner trunks are thinner.
are thinner. 2.
2. Wind Wind brings brings in in dust dust and and insects:insects: at edge of forest there is fallout at edge of forest there is fallout of these, so forest at wind edge of these, so forest at wind edge receives more “fertilizer”. Rain receives more “fertilizer”. Rain
run-off also more plentiful at windward edge (high pressure of wind keeps the moisture in). run-off also more plentiful at windward edge (high pressure of wind keeps the moisture in). 3.
3. 60% of wind is 60% of wind is forced up over forced up over the trees, the trees, forms and falls as forms and falls as Ekman spirals. Rain is Ekman spirals. Rain is caused bycaused by spirals if there is any moisture in the air. Trees can cause the moisture to drop because of the spirals if there is any moisture in the air. Trees can cause the moisture to drop because of the upward, forced spiraling of the wind. The spirals change direction depending on the hemisphere upward, forced spiraling of the wind. The spirals change direction depending on the hemisphere (to the left in Southern hemisphere).
(to the left in Southern hemisphere).
Light Light
1.
1. Light is abLight is absorbed, transmitted sorbed, transmitted through, or through, or reflected by reflected by the tree, the tree, depending on trdepending on trunk color, unk color, leafleaf shape and color, and canopy (and also depending on climate).
shape and color, and canopy (and also depending on climate). 2.
2. Light absorption Light absorption is mainly on is mainly on crown for crown for photosynthesis. A photosynthesis. A high light absorption high light absorption tree is tree is a radiatora radiator and is mainly found in low heat conditions (temperate climates).
and is mainly found in low heat conditions (temperate climates). 3.
3. Light reflection is Light reflection is also on the crown also on the crown (in dense plantings) o(in dense plantings) or all over the r all over the tree in the tree in the form of silverform of silver leaves. A reflecting tree is a light “producer” and is usually in low light conditions. In trees where leaves. A reflecting tree is a light “producer” and is usually in low light conditions. In trees where bark is white, heat is
bark is white, heat is reflected away from the trunk.reflected away from the trunk. 4.
4. Transmitted Transmitted light light is red is red light, light, stimulates root stimulates root growth.growth.
Rain Rain
1.
1. Impact on Impact on crown causes crown causes some immediate evaporation some immediate evaporation (but in a (but in a dense planting, dense planting, there is there is no im-no im-pact on the ground, and so p
pact on the ground, and so prevents erosion under the trees).revents erosion under the trees). 2.
2. Each leaf is wettEach leaf is wetted. No water ed. No water falls through the falls through the crown until all leaves arcrown until all leaves are wet- tree e wet- tree intercepts rain.intercepts rain.
A
A
B
B
C
C
3.
3. Throughfall: water Throughfall: water begins to begins to drip off drip off the leaves the leaves towards the towards the branches and branches and trunk. Water trunk. Water now con-now con-tains nutrients (dust, insects, plant’s nutrients).
tains nutrients (dust, insects, plant’s nutrients). 4.
4. Canopy drip feeds Canopy drip feeds the surface roots. the surface roots. Trunk drip feeds Trunk drip feeds deeper ladder or deeper ladder or tap root systtap root systems. Func-ems. Func-tion of tap roots is mainly mining. Minerals brought up to leaves and then washed off during rain tion of tap roots is mainly mining. Minerals brought up to leaves and then washed off during rain to be used by the surface
to be used by the surface feeding roots.feeding roots. 5.
5. Litter under trLitter under tree impedes water absorptee impedes water absorption (3 inches of ion (3 inches of litter holds 1 litter holds 1 inch of water). inch of water). Roots areRoots are then able to absorb what they
then able to absorb what they need before water infiltrates the ground.need before water infiltrates the ground. 6.
6. Infiltration: water coatInfiltration: water coats all the soil s all the soil crumbs (the tree crumbs (the tree roots can also roots can also soak the water soak the water up from theup from the soil crumbs).
soil crumbs). 7.
7. When ground When ground reaches field reaches field capacity or capacity or saturation, water saturation, water then slowly then slowly percolates to percolates to groundwatergroundwater area.
area.
Transpiration
Transpirationoccurs when the process reverses from deep occurs when the process reverses from deep groundwaters, goes back up through thegroundwaters, goes back up through the trees, and are released into the air as clouds. 60% of clouds inland (after the first rainfall of 100% trees, and are released into the air as clouds. 60% of clouds inland (after the first rainfall of 100% mois-ture from the sea) are formed by
ture from the sea) are formed by trees.trees.
The dust that rises off the trees is made from bits of leaves and pollen, two sorts of bacteria that live on The dust that rises off the trees is made from bits of leaves and pollen, two sorts of bacteria that live on the leaves, and certain oils and waxes that exude off the leaves. At the center of every raindrop inland the leaves, and certain oils and waxes that exude off the leaves. At the center of every raindrop inland (nucleus) is a dust particle off
(nucleus) is a dust particle off trees.trees. More water that comes to earth is
More water that comes to earth is condensationcondensation rather than rain. One tree can be as much as 20-40rather than rain. One tree can be as much as 20-40 acres of leaf area. Moisture is condensed at night because it is relatively cooler than the air or wind. acres of leaf area. Moisture is condensed at night because it is relatively cooler than the air or wind. Trees put out negative ions (which attract positive ions, usually dust and pollution) so air around trees is Trees put out negative ions (which attract positive ions, usually dust and pollution) so air around trees is healthy. Need a lot of trees in cities to counteract the positive ions in the air which cause depression. healthy. Need a lot of trees in cities to counteract the positive ions in the air which cause depression. In forests ground water run-off is zero (100% vegetative co
In forests ground water run-off is zero (100% vegetative co ver). At 80% vegetative cover = 5% run-off; atver). At 80% vegetative cover = 5% run-off; at 60% cover = 35% run-off; at 20% cover
60% cover = 35% run-off; at 20% cover = 60% run-off. Severe soil loss = 60% run-off. Severe soil loss occurs as vegetative cover isoccurs as vegetative cover is removed.
removed.
Types of Forest
Types of Forest: fuel, food, forage, natural, structural, conservation, shelter/animal barrier.: fuel, food, forage, natural, structural, conservation, shelter/animal barrier.
1.
1. Fuel: Essentials arFuel: Essentials are that e that least use shleast use should be made ould be made of solid fuels; of solid fuels; barks and barks and leaves should bleaves should bee returned to the soil or the system will degrade.
returned to the soil or the system will degrade. •
• Liquid fuels: species yielding Liquid fuels: species yielding sugars for conversion to alcohol sugars for conversion to alcohol (toddy palm, carobs, fruit trees),(toddy palm, carobs, fruit trees), or directly to fuel (copaiba). These are
or directly to fuel (copaiba). These are permanent trees.permanent trees. •
• Solid fuels: either as cones from Solid fuels: either as cones from nut pines, fallen wood, thinninut pines, fallen wood, thinnings, or short term forest for soilngs, or short term forest for soil creation (acacia, laucana).
creation (acacia, laucana). •
• Gas fuels: coppicing for conversion of biomass via composting for methane collection.Gas fuels: coppicing for conversion of biomass via composting for methane collection. 2.
2. Food: Orchards- Food: Orchards- usually intercrop usually intercrop (fruits, nut(fruits, nuts). Use s). Use of food of food trees to trees to support vine support vine crop.crop. 3.
3. Forage: Design forForage: Design forage trees into age trees into zones II, Izones II, III, & IV for II, & IV for small livestock, sheep, small livestock, sheep, cattle. Livestockcattle. Livestock will eat leaves, fruits, nuts off many trees (some need to be fenced off or allowed to grow large will eat leaves, fruits, nuts off many trees (some need to be fenced off or allowed to grow large before livestock are put in). Trees include
before livestock are put in). Trees include those that drop fruit (mulberry, coprosma, boxthorn,those that drop fruit (mulberry, coprosma, boxthorn, fig, etc.); nuts (oak, chestnut, etc.); pods (acacia, carob, honey locust); and green leaves fig, etc.); nuts (oak, chestnut, etc.); pods (acacia, carob, honey locust); and green leaves (pampas grass, banna grass, tagasaste)
(pampas grass, banna grass, tagasaste) 4.
4. Shelterbelt Shelterbelt and and animal animal barrierbarrier •
• Windbreak around house and farm siteWindbreak around house and farm site •
• Select species that provide forage, shelter, and Select species that provide forage, shelter, and act as a barrier hedge (e.g. pampas act as a barrier hedge (e.g. pampas grass,grass, coprosma)
coprosma) •
• Shelter for animals and Shelter for animals and as protection for crop (can put 20% of as protection for crop (can put 20% of ground into shelter without loss ofground into shelter without loss of productivity)
productivity) 5.
5. Structural: range Structural: range from bamboo from bamboo to black to black walnut, and walnut, and short to short to long term long term cycles. Use cycles. Use for:for: •
•
• Milled timber (long term and old forests)Milled timber (long term and old forests) •
• Industrial (cellulose yields)Industrial (cellulose yields) •
• Craft uses (rattan, bamboo)Craft uses (rattan, bamboo) 6.
6. Natural and Natural and Conservation: forests Conservation: forests have an have an intrinsic worth: intrinsic worth: beauty, nesting beauty, nesting sites for sites for birds, crea-birds, crea-tors of oxygen, clean wat
tors of oxygen, clean water supply, rain & moisture, soil. Prevent er supply, rain & moisture, soil. Prevent erosion, deflect winds, erosion, deflect winds, bringbring nutrients up from the ground.
nutrients up from the ground.
Establishment of Forest Establishment of Forest
•
• Select species and use (timber forest, fuel, etc.) Select species and use (timber forest, fuel, etc.) and design for placement (crown bearers and design for placement (crown bearers andand flower bearers on outside of clump, stem and forest inside). Shrubs may last only 10 years, flower bearers on outside of clump, stem and forest inside). Shrubs may last only 10 years, pio-neers may last only 20.
neers may last only 20. •
• Pioneer species can establish essential Pioneer species can establish essential conditions for forest (nitrogen-fixation, nutrient build-up)conditions for forest (nitrogen-fixation, nutrient build-up) on poor soils.
on poor soils. •
• Important to establish trees in a clump (fed by several drip points if necessary) as these will sup-Important to establish trees in a clump (fed by several drip points if necessary) as these will sup-port one another. Individual plantings tend to
port one another. Individual plantings tend to get ignored, and are often droughted, wiget ignored, and are often droughted, wind-pruned,nd-pruned, and smothered by grass competition.
and smothered by grass competition.
Forest Management: thinning, fire, coppice, standards, selection, nutrients Forest Management: thinning, fire, coppice, standards, selection, nutrients
Section 5: Establishment of Vegetation and Trees
Section 5: Establishment of Vegetation and Trees
Orchard Systems Orchard Systems
•
• Food trees mixed in wFood trees mixed in with non-food trees to confuse pestsith non-food trees to confuse pests and encourage pest predators
and encourage pest predators •
• Nitrogen-fixing trees should also be included, Nitrogen-fixing trees should also be included, e.g. leu-e.g. leu-caena, acacia
caena, acacia •
• Combine poultry and ground cover planting for manureCombine poultry and ground cover planting for manure resources
resources •
• Mulch speciesMulch species
Tree Planting Tips Tree Planting Tips
•
• Site: find nuclei to start from which will end up being cov-Site: find nuclei to start from which will end up being cov-ered by vegetation
ered by vegetation •
• Pest control around nucleus. 1) thorn fences (spiny Pest control around nucleus. 1) thorn fences (spiny jujube),jujube), living fence (boma) and 2) paint blood & bone or sheep living fence (boma) and 2) paint blood & bone or sheep grease & kerosene on stems
grease & kerosene on stems •
• Shelter: 1) plant near rock or tussock, dune Shelter: 1) plant near rock or tussock, dune toto protect from
protect from wind & sun wind & sun and 2) use and 2) use a guard-a guard-rail to collect dust, manure, & fine
rail to collect dust, manure, & fine vegetationvegetation •
• Plant in old stockyards to start a nucleus ofPlant in old stockyards to start a nucleus of trees, a source of nutrients
trees, a source of nutrients •
• Sudanese technique; Lanzarote technique:Sudanese technique; Lanzarote technique: dig hole in sand & line with mud. Mud holds dig hole in sand & line with mud. Mud holds water and provides moist microclimate, wind water and provides moist microclimate, wind protection
protection •
• Polystyrene tubes (developed in W. Australia)Polystyrene tubes (developed in W. Australia) 75mm lip protects from rabbits (don’t like to 75mm lip protects from rabbits (don’t like to bite through plastic). Will nip off tops, bite through plastic). Will nip off tops, butbut plant lives.
plant lives. •
• Net and pan system on a slope gives treesNet and pan system on a slope gives trees water & prevents erosion and run-off water & prevents erosion and run-off •
Laying Down the Garden Laying Down the Garden
Approach #1: The Instant Garden Approach #1: The Instant Garden a) Sprinkle some manure, n
a) Sprinkle some manure, nutrients on the ground (or grass) to encourage utrients on the ground (or grass) to encourage worms to come up. Waterworms to come up. Water fully.
fully.
b) Lay down thick wet
b) Lay down thick wet newspaper, cardboard, carpet underfelt, or carpet (not with plastic backing).newspaper, cardboard, carpet underfelt, or carpet (not with plastic backing). c) Cover with thick l
c) Cover with thick l ayer of mulch (straw, old compost, any seedless ayer of mulch (straw, old compost, any seedless mulch). Water fully.mulch). Water fully.
d) For transplanting potted plants, uncover mulch, cut through cardboard, and fill area with a couple of d) For transplanting potted plants, uncover mulch, cut through cardboard, and fill area with a couple of handfuls of soil. Transplant and water fully.
handfuls of soil. Transplant and water fully.
e) For large seeds (broad beans, sunflowers, peas, etc.) simply plant under the mulch and water every e) For large seeds (broad beans, sunflowers, peas, etc.) simply plant under the mulch and water every day.
day.
f) Small seeds: prepare area of soil, plant, water and lay board over the area. Remove board and water f) Small seeds: prepare area of soil, plant, water and lay board over the area. Remove board and water daily.
daily.
g) Potatoes: simply plant under the mulch. g) Potatoes: simply plant under the mulch.
Approach #2 (see figure A): Rows, Pipes, and Mulch (for Approach #2 (see figure A): Rows, Pipes, and Mulch (for large area market garden)
large area market garden) a) Make level beds
a) Make level beds
b) Lay ¾” pipe down the bed and drill holes every 4 feet. b) Lay ¾” pipe down the bed and drill holes every 4 feet. Wrap stocking around hole
Wrap stocking around hole c) Mulch entire area, even
c) Mulch entire area, even the footpaths.the footpaths.
Zone I: Intensive Animals Zone I: Intensive Animals
•
• PigeonsPigeons •
• Guinea pigsGuinea pigs •
• BeesBees •
• Quail (can be in glasshouse to control insects)Quail (can be in glasshouse to control insects) •
• RabbitsRabbits •
• WormsWorms
Zone II: Orchards and Small
Zone II: Orchards and Small LivestockLivestock
Orchard System: Orchard System:
•
• Food trees mixed in wiFood trees mixed in with non-food trees to confuse pests and encourage pest th non-food trees to confuse pests and encourage pest predatorspredators •
• Nitrogen-fixing trees should also be included. (leucaena, acacia)Nitrogen-fixing trees should also be included. (leucaena, acacia) •
• Combined poultry/ground cover planting for manure Combined poultry/ground cover planting for manure resourcesresources •
• Ground mulch plant speciesGround mulch plant species •
• Barrier plants around trees to compete with Barrier plants around trees to compete with grassesgrasses •
• Fire and wind protection needed (select appropriate Fire and wind protection needed (select appropriate species).species). Small livestock for Zone II:
Small livestock for Zone II: • • BeesBees • • PoultryPoultry • • DucksDucks • • GeeseGeese • • PigsPigs Bees Bees •
• Careful placement to avoid stings, windblastCareful placement to avoid stings, windblast •
• Mid-season honey (Buddleia, brambles)Mid-season honey (Buddleia, brambles) •
• Pollen and early honey (willow, rosemary, Echium)Pollen and early honey (willow, rosemary, Echium) •
• Late flows (leatherwood, forest trees)Late flows (leatherwood, forest trees)
Fig. A Fig. A
Poultry Poultry
•
• Placement of poultry house and Placement of poultry house and range for best advantage (manures, scratching for insects)range for best advantage (manures, scratching for insects) •
• Seed speciesSeed species •
• Pod and acorn species (Lucerne, coprosma, lyciumPod and acorn species (Lucerne, coprosma, lycium, oak, locust, carob), oak, locust, carob) •
• Cover from predators (thorn and shelter)Cover from predators (thorn and shelter) •
• Choice of bread for situation (light Choice of bread for situation (light breeds, heavy breeds, color, behavior differences)breeds, heavy breeds, color, behavior differences) •
• Greens (comfrey, oxalis, chicory, cleavers)Greens (comfrey, oxalis, chicory, cleavers) •
• Vines (passionfruit)Vines (passionfruit) •
• Fruits (all fruits)Fruits (all fruits) •
• “Medicines” (oxalis, cleavers, dandelion)“Medicines” (oxalis, cleavers, dandelion) •
• Grit/sand/shellGrit/sand/shell •
• WaterWater •
• Chicken “tractor” in fallow gardens or fields Chicken “tractor” in fallow gardens or fields to remove pests, scratch out seeds, deposit manure,to remove pests, scratch out seeds, deposit manure, help in fire control (making bare ground)
help in fire control (making bare ground) Pigs
Pigs •
• Forage: jerusalem artichoke, comfrey, LucerneForage: jerusalem artichoke, comfrey, Lucerne •
• Kitchen and market scrapsKitchen and market scraps •
• Oak: acornsOak: acorns
Zone III: Extensive Free Range, Wildlife, Broadscale Systems Zone III: Extensive Free Range, Wildlife, Broadscale Systems
Broadscale and Forage Systems Broadscale and Forage Systems
•
• Fukuoka “no tillage” system of sequential rotation and sustainable soil buildingFukuoka “no tillage” system of sequential rotation and sustainable soil building •
• Use of leguminous trees (acacia, leucaena) as pioneer species to improve soils for later orchardUse of leguminous trees (acacia, leucaena) as pioneer species to improve soils for later orchard plantings
plantings •
• Self-forage for sheep, cattleSelf-forage for sheep, cattle •
• Windbreak systemsWindbreak systems •
• Water systems development (large impoundments)Water systems development (large impoundments) •
• Fences and gatesFences and gates Feeding Cycle of Beef Feeding Cycle of Beef
•
• Annual grasses, carbohydrates(winter), perennial grasses, winter twigs and bark, sugar pAnnual grasses, carbohydrates(winter), perennial grasses, winter twigs and bark, sugar p odsods (summer)
(summer) •
• Browsing animals like coprosma, tagasaste, pampas grass, banna grass (Pennesetum pur-Browsing animals like coprosma, tagasaste, pampas grass, banna grass (Pennesetum pur-pureum), laucaena, comfrey, willows, poplars, honey
pureum), laucaena, comfrey, willows, poplars, honey locust, and carob podslocust, and carob pods •
• On intensive tree forage systems, stocking rate can On intensive tree forage systems, stocking rate can be up to 14 abe up to 14 animals per acre, rather than 1nimals per acre, rather than 1 per 20 acres. Watch out for compaction, especially on low country in winter.
per 20 acres. Watch out for compaction, especially on low country in winter. •
• Goats and peacocks are a “no-no” on Goats and peacocks are a “no-no” on farms. If must have goats farms. If must have goats use Rosa rugosa, roses, black-use Rosa rugosa, roses, black-berries, tagasaste, and boxthorn.
berries, tagasaste, and boxthorn. •
• Important book: “Fertility Pastures and Cover Crops” by NewImportant book: “Fertility Pastures and Cover Crops” by New man Turner available from Bman Turner available from Bargylaargyla and Gylver
and Gylver Rateaver, Pauma Rateaver, Pauma Valley, California Valley, California 92061. 92061. Discusses herbal Discusses herbal pastures, pastures, particularlyparticularly for dairy cows. Also “Herbal Handbook for Farm and Stable” by J. de Barclay-Levy, published by for dairy cows. Also “Herbal Handbook for Farm and Stable” by J. de Barclay-Levy, published by Faber & Faber, London.
Faber & Faber, London.
Rangeland Management
Rangeland Management: Well managed rangeland is very productive, contains wildlife, fodder trees,: Well managed rangeland is very productive, contains wildlife, fodder trees, windbreaks and shelterbelts, herbal pastures, rotated pastures, and is
windbreaks and shelterbelts, herbal pastures, rotated pastures, and is fenced appropriately. Must not befenced appropriately. Must not be overstocked.
overstocked.
Urban Permaculture
Urban Permaculture(more Urban Strategies in section on “Settlement Design”)(more Urban Strategies in section on “Settlement Design”) •
• Take over the lawns in Take over the lawns in urban back and front yards for fruit trees aurban back and front yards for fruit trees and vegetable productionnd vegetable production •
•
• Put glasshouses onto sun side of house for vegetables. Quail can also be kept there.Put glasshouses onto sun side of house for vegetables. Quail can also be kept there. •
• Small animals can be kept if local ordinances allow it (poultry, quail, guinea pigs, bees, rabbits)Small animals can be kept if local ordinances allow it (poultry, quail, guinea pigs, bees, rabbits) •
• Reduce lead levels by screen planting of non-edibles near roadsReduce lead levels by screen planting of non-edibles near roads •
• Plant in small areas: wiPlant in small areas: window boxes, porches, near door outside, on roof ndow boxes, porches, near door outside, on roof if flat.if flat. •
• Organize with like-minded people to plant in a local community gardenOrganize with like-minded people to plant in a local community garden
Themes Themes
Rampancy (species which become troublesome by occupying large areas or occurring in great number) Rampancy (species which become troublesome by occupying large areas or occurring in great number) Plants: Reasons for Rampancy
Plants: Reasons for Rampancy •
• Response to damaged or vacant niches in environmentResponse to damaged or vacant niches in environment •
• Often species which are efficient & Often species which are efficient & drought resistantdrought resistant Specific response:
Specific response: •
• To grazing: lantana, Patterson’s curse, thistleTo grazing: lantana, Patterson’s curse, thistle •
• To fire: Erechthtites, fireweed, brackenTo fire: Erechthtites, fireweed, bracken •
• To chemical changes in soil: sedges, sour-grassesTo chemical changes in soil: sedges, sour-grasses •
• To exhaustion of soil: bracken, moss, piTo exhaustion of soil: bracken, moss, pioneer species such as blackberry, thistleoneer species such as blackberry, thistle Dealing with rampant species with assisted evolution:
Dealing with rampant species with assisted evolution: •
• Use succession plants, e.g. groundse/wattle/gum. Help succession by Use succession plants, e.g. groundse/wattle/gum. Help succession by slashing/fertilizing/ slashing/fertilizing/ planting of suitable species and spreading seeds
planting of suitable species and spreading seeds •
• Interplant fruit trees and cattle grazing (extensive); goat/pig grazing (local); carpet mulInterplant fruit trees and cattle grazing (extensive); goat/pig grazing (local); carpet mul ch onch on small areas (garden); e.g. blackberry/bramble.
small areas (garden); e.g. blackberry/bramble. •
• Slash and interplant, e.g. lantana, especially shade species (pigeon pea, plantain, mango) andSlash and interplant, e.g. lantana, especially shade species (pigeon pea, plantain, mango) and vines (chayote, passionfruit).
vines (chayote, passionfruit). Rampant species protect and mulch
Rampant species protect and mulch soils, provide bee forage, and protect subsequent evolutions/ soils, provide bee forage, and protect subsequent evolutions/ successions.
successions.
Functions of Animals in the System Functions of Animals in the System
•
• ??? elements of the forest??? elements of the forest •
• As pollinators, many are specialAs pollinators, many are specialized for species (bees, wasps, butterflies, moths, flies)ized for species (bees, wasps, butterflies, moths, flies) •
• Are seed distributors (ducks: algae & Are seed distributors (ducks: algae & sedges; cattle: seeds of sugary pods; dogs and sedges; cattle: seeds of sugary pods; dogs and foxes: lo-foxes: lo-quat, grape, lychees; jays: oaks)
quat, grape, lychees; jays: oaks) •
• Are regulators: 1) of forests (“weeder” species in evolution Are regulators: 1) of forests (“weeder” species in evolution of forests) and of 2) other animalsof forests) and of 2) other animals (predation to regulate population)
(predation to regulate population) Practical Establishment Problems
Practical Establishment Problems
Losses in establishment often greatest cost to client. Design to minimize. Losses in establishment often greatest cost to client. Design to minimize.
•
• Water (critical factor) needs first priorityWater (critical factor) needs first priority •
• Wind shelter may be critical iWind shelter may be critical in the case of citrus, avocado, etc.n the case of citrus, avocado, etc. •
• Nutrients: e.g. phosphates for young pines; leguminous trees Nutrients: e.g. phosphates for young pines; leguminous trees recommendedrecommended •
• Soils: better to rehabilitate and lose a year than to move forward with poor soilsSoils: better to rehabilitate and lose a year than to move forward with poor soils •
• Species choice, especially in grassland Species choice, especially in grassland competition, e.g. tagasaste, pines, oaks more success-competition, e.g. tagasaste, pines, oaks more success-ful than cultivated fruits
ful than cultivated fruits •
Section 6: Garden
Section 6: Garden Strategies
Strategies
These are some important approaches to food supply: These are some important approaches to food supply:
•
• A series of small, intensive gardens, vines, and tree crop areas closely associated with waterA series of small, intensive gardens, vines, and tree crop areas closely associated with water use in settlement, and sometimes irrigated (Domestic food).
use in settlement, and sometimes irrigated (Domestic food). •
• Corridors or dependable local niches Corridors or dependable local niches for adapted, hardy drought-tolerant yams, cucurbits, vines,for adapted, hardy drought-tolerant yams, cucurbits, vines, palms, and trees along dune bases, sandy river beds, valley floors, and in boulder fields or palms, and trees along dune bases, sandy river beds, valley floors, and in boulder fields or rock-strew areas (extensive and semi-wild food).
strew areas (extensive and semi-wild food). •
• A series of flood fields A series of flood fields in standby to sow quick crops of in standby to sow quick crops of grains, oil seeds, grain legumes & catgrains, oil seeds, grain legumes & catchch crop for long term storage as a
crop for long term storage as a famine or drought buffer (Opportunistic cropping)famine or drought buffer (Opportunistic cropping)
Garden Beds Garden Beds
Raised Beds: Raised Beds:
•
• Preferably 0.5 meters above paths orPreferably 0.5 meters above paths or grade
grade •
• Fill with sands, organic matter, and addFill with sands, organic matter, and add gels (artificial) to hold water
gels (artificial) to hold water •
• Mulch surface with “hard” mulch toMulch surface with “hard” mulch to shade soil; also mulch paths. shade soil; also mulch paths. •
• Lay “leaky” pipes 15cm down in beds &Lay “leaky” pipes 15cm down in beds & time the flow to wet
time the flow to wet 0.5-1.0 meter depth0.5-1.0 meter depth of soil (to 1.5m for trees)
of soil (to 1.5m for trees) •
• Give beds deep watering to flush salt to below root levels.Give beds deep watering to flush salt to below root levels.
Circle Beds (raised): Circle Beds (raised):
•
• Deep pit filled with organic matter and manureDeep pit filled with organic matter and manure •
• Plant on edges of pits.Plant on edges of pits. •
• Stack stones for low windbreak on windward sideStack stones for low windbreak on windward side •
• Drip irrigate under mulchDrip irrigate under mulch
Garden Plans: Garden Plans:
•
• Plan garden to be very compact; few pathsPlan garden to be very compact; few paths •
• Use all domestic waste water in soakage pits to grow trees, bananas, palmsUse all domestic waste water in soakage pits to grow trees, bananas, palms •
• Light (sun) excess can be reduced by vine shading of up to 70% shadow, and trellis over gardenLight (sun) excess can be reduced by vine shading of up to 70% shadow, and trellis over garden (grape, passionfruit) can run north/south to overshade garden.
(grape, passionfruit) can run north/south to overshade garden. •
• Thin foliage acacia can be set out in crop for shadeThin foliage acacia can be set out in crop for shade •
• Shadecloth needed over nursery areas, slatted or Shadecloth needed over nursery areas, slatted or frond (palms) cover to seedling beds.frond (palms) cover to seedling beds. •
• Maximize fruits, root crops; minimize green leaf crop if nitrate levels are high in the water.Maximize fruits, root crops; minimize green leaf crop if nitrate levels are high in the water. •
Supply of Nutrients: soils lock up many minerals that can best be supplied: Supply of Nutrients: soils lock up many minerals that can best be supplied:
•
• In aqueous solution, to foliage, or as In aqueous solution, to foliage, or as dripdrip As seed coatings for broadscale planting
As seed coatings for broadscale planting •
• As broadscale additives in soluble formAs broadscale additives in soluble form •
• As slow-release “frits” or pelletsAs slow-release “frits” or pellets •
• In perforated plastic bags at root levelIn perforated plastic bags at root level •
• From mulches & organic material, composts, & manureFrom mulches & organic material, composts, & manure Mulch Sources in Drylands:
Mulch Sources in Drylands: •
• Tumbleweeds & wisps of plants blown by wind which will settle in pits, swales, or be trapped byTumbleweeds & wisps of plants blown by wind which will settle in pits, swales, or be trapped by fences
fences •
• Grown mulch in gardens and orchardsGrown mulch in gardens and orchards •
• Derived from plants such as casuarina, bamboo, tamarisk, comfrey, and some species of acaciaDerived from plants such as casuarina, bamboo, tamarisk, comfrey, and some species of acacia on dunes and hills
on dunes and hills •
• Forage grasses and legumes that have been planted for their mulch value or nitrogenous soilForage grasses and legumes that have been planted for their mulch value or nitrogenous soil fixation in specific situations
fixation in specific situations •
• Some desert vines and hedge species which also provide good mulch from trimmingsSome desert vines and hedge species which also provide good mulch from trimmings •
• Household and town wastes (a major source of mulch)Household and town wastes (a major source of mulch) •
• Grazing animals on range (if regularly penned), providing mulch-manure resources.Grazing animals on range (if regularly penned), providing mulch-manure resources. •
• Old clothes, mattresses, paper wastesOld clothes, mattresses, paper wastes
Zone One Zone One
Needs very careful design, particularly focusing on
Needs very careful design, particularly focusing on accessaccessandandsched- sched-ules
ules. Starting from kitchen steps:. Starting from kitchen steps:
1) The Herb Spiral: 1 meter high, contains plants which are constantly 1) The Herb Spiral: 1 meter high, contains plants which are constantly used. Herbs- mints, thyme, marjoram, rosemary, sage, basil, etc. used. Herbs- mints, thyme, marjoram, rosemary, sage, basil, etc.
2) The Lemon or Lime Tree: must be close to the house as it is often used; 2) The Lemon or Lime Tree: must be close to the house as it is often used; can stay ripe on the tree a long time.
can stay ripe on the tree a long time.
3) The Clipping Beds: for small salads: chives, parsley, mustard greens, 3) The Clipping Beds: for small salads: chives, parsley, mustard greens, corn salad, garden cress.
corn salad, garden cress.
4) The Pathside Plucking Vegetables: Long bearing vegetables for salads 4) The Pathside Plucking Vegetables: Long bearing vegetables for salads and cooking that can be cut or have leaves pulled for months of yield. E.g. and cooking that can be cut or have leaves pulled for months of yield. E.g.
Chard, Brussels sprouts, celery, kale, dill, bell pepper, bunching onions, Chard, Brussels sprouts, celery, kale, dill, bell pepper, bunching onions, broc-coli, spinach, zucchini, rhubarb.
coli, spinach, zucchini, rhubarb.
5) Narrow Bed Plants: Must be able to move easily around the bed for easy 5) Narrow Bed Plants: Must be able to move easily around the bed for easy harvest. Vegetables include asparagus, peas, beans, carrots, eggplant, harvest. Vegetables include asparagus, peas, beans, carrots, eggplant, let-tuce, tomatoes.
tuce, tomatoes.
6) Broad Beds: here are planted
6) Broad Beds: here are planted the basic brassicas, lettuce, root crops thatthe basic brassicas, lettuce, root crops that are closely spaced, self mulched, and are block planted to be cut over a are closely spaced, self mulched, and are block planted to be cut over a pe-riod. E.g. beets, turnips, leeks, kohlrabi, onions, mel
riod. E.g. beets, turnips, leeks, kohlrabi, onions, mel ons, parsnips, cabbage,ons, parsnips, cabbage, cauliflower, Chinese cabbage, pumpkin, globe
cauliflower, Chinese cabbage, pumpkin, globe artichoke, potato.artichoke, potato.
7) Broadcast Sown Grain & Pulse Crop: here can be planted successions 7) Broadcast Sown Grain & Pulse Crop: here can be planted successions such as rape-sweet corn-buckwheat.
such as rape-sweet corn-buckwheat.
8) Vine and Trellis Crop: e.g. cucumber, pumpkin, passionfruit, jicama, beans, 8) Vine and Trellis Crop: e.g. cucumber, pumpkin, passionfruit, jicama, beans, and peas.
and peas.
Corridor and Semi-wild Corridor and Semi-wild Plant-ing
ing(very important in deserts)(very important in deserts)
Hardy trees (palms, fruits, nuts) Hardy trees (palms, fruits, nuts) can be set out along river beds, can be set out along river beds, dune bases, and in shaded valley dune bases, and in shaded valley niches. Figs, mulberries, olives, niches. Figs, mulberries, olives, dates, mango, chestnut, etc. dates, mango, chestnut, etc. placed in highly selective niches placed in highly selective niches will become perennial after 1-2 will become perennial after 1-2 years of care and will yield for years of care and will yield for decades.
decades. Use evUse every ery seepage,seepage, spring, and shaded deep soils. spring, and shaded deep soils. Develop useful local species, Develop useful local species, vines, and shrubs for corridors. vines, and shrubs for corridors.
Human and Animal Nutrition Human and Animal Nutrition
Vitamins and Minerals: Dangers include Vitamins and Minerals: Dangers include mineral deficiencies in irrigated areas, mineral deficiencies in irrigated areas, poisoning from bare water and rapidly poisoning from bare water and rapidly grown, leafy plants. Very common grown, leafy plants. Very common dis-eases arise from:
eases arise from: •
•Gross lack of fresh food: leaves andGross lack of fresh food: leaves and fruit. Leads to lack of vitamin A & C fruit. Leads to lack of vitamin A & C •
•Lack of meat protein (for iron uptakeLack of meat protein (for iron uptake and B vitamins)
and B vitamins) •
•Excessive nitrates & salts in water orExcessive nitrates & salts in water or leaf
leaf •
and stunted growth and stunted growth •
• Poisoning by fluorides, radioactives, water-borne nitrates & pathogensPoisoning by fluorides, radioactives, water-borne nitrates & pathogens •
• Processed food adds to health problems Processed food adds to health problems of dietary diabetes, high blood of dietary diabetes, high blood pressure, heart prob-pressure, heart prob-lems, liver failure from alcohol
lems, liver failure from alcohol •
• Animals on browse may be poisoned by oxalates, prussic acids, nitrates, sodium fluoro-acetateAnimals on browse may be poisoned by oxalates, prussic acids, nitrates, sodium fluoro-acetate in fast growing vegetation. Toxemias common in pregnanc
in fast growing vegetation. Toxemias common in pregnancy, breeding, young animals. y, breeding, young animals. WatchWatch for lethal effects of Botulinus from blue-green
for lethal effects of Botulinus from blue-green algae in desert lakes, and algae in desert lakes, and for water-borne dis-for water-borne dis-eases.
eases. Dust and Water: Dust and Water:
•
• Dust carries several pathogens, cysts, spores, sometimes harmful mDust carries several pathogens, cysts, spores, sometimes harmful m inerals or radioactives, en-inerals or radioactives, en-cephalitis, etc.
cephalitis, etc. •
• Dryland borne waters can contain salt Dryland borne waters can contain salt (sodium salts), radioactives, fluorides, nitrates, boron,(sodium salts), radioactives, fluorides, nitrates, boron, and mineral salts
and mineral salts •
• Many desert diseases are water transmitted, showers are Many desert diseases are water transmitted, showers are preferred to “swimming holes” espe-preferred to “swimming holes” espe-cially when disease is endemic.
cially when disease is endemic.
Section 7: Soils
Section 7: Soils
A. Soil analysis and interpretation – ph scale: A. Soil analysis and interpretation – ph scale:
B. Creation of humus in soil B. Creation of humus in soil
Can be done through addition of mulch, Can be done through addition of mulch, com-post, vegetation, food scraps, manures, animal post, vegetation, food scraps, manures, animal skins and bones, etc. May take 2-4 years to skins and bones, etc. May take 2-4 years to build up good garden soil. Humus solves the build up good garden soil. Humus solves the problems of
problems of too acidtoo acidandandtoo alkalinetoo alkaline..
C. Difficult Soil C. Difficult Soil
Alkaline areas expected in deserts, coasts,
Alkaline areas expected in deserts, coasts, and alkaline rocks. Acid areas and alkaline rocks. Acid areas expected in wetlands, bogs,expected in wetlands, bogs, high rainfall, uplands, siliceous rocks. Species suited to alkaline areas are mesquites, locusts, carobs, high rainfall, uplands, siliceous rocks. Species suited to alkaline areas are mesquites, locusts, carobs, some pines. Species suited to acid areas are oaks, pines, and blueberries.
some pines. Species suited to acid areas are oaks, pines, and blueberries.
Platin soil: islands, atolls and desert coasts. 18” deep a layer of calcium triphosphate, hard as concrete. Platin soil: islands, atolls and desert coasts. 18” deep a layer of calcium triphosphate, hard as concrete. Strategy: break up the platin layer, stuff with
Strategy: break up the platin layer, stuff with humus, and plant tree. Tree continues humus, and plant tree. Tree continues to break up platinto break up platin and release phosphate nutrients.
and release phosphate nutrients.
Caliches: tropical equivalent of plantain. Hills. Ferric silicate composition lies 1-1.5 meters below soil, Caliches: tropical equivalent of plantain. Hills. Ferric silicate composition lies 1-1.5 meters below soil, often in rainforest. Best to leave forest as
often in rainforest. Best to leave forest as is.is.
Non-wetting: dryland areas- water rolls off. Caused
Non-wetting: dryland areas- water rolls off. Caused by algae-fungal association which produces wby algae-fungal association which produces wax.ax. Strategy: can be mulched (for small areas); mixed with clay or a commercial gel.
Clay: drainage problem. Mix with gypsum to help seepage (2 meters penetration); can also use gels to Clay: drainage problem. Mix with gypsum to help seepage (2 meters penetration); can also use gels to hold water.
hold water.
Section 8: Seeds and Nurseries
Section 8: Seeds and Nurseries
•
• Seed saving: collection and exchange (Kent Whealy system)Seed saving: collection and exchange (Kent Whealy system) •
• Perennializing annuals: how to reduce the need for seedsPerennializing annuals: how to reduce the need for seeds •
• Need for specialized permaculture nurseries for Need for specialized permaculture nurseries for unusual plants, e.g. bamboo, palm, cacti, and unusual plants, e.g. bamboo, palm, cacti, and forfor forage species: pampas grass, tagasaste, coprosma
forage species: pampas grass, tagasaste, coprosma •
• Seed companies (buy Seed companies (buy from small, from small, non-hybridized non-hybridized stock)stock) •
• Seed legislation (P.V.R. in U.S.)Seed legislation (P.V.R. in U.S.)
Section 9: Water Cycles and Management
Section 9: Water Cycles and Management
Run-off Factors Depend On: Run-off Factors Depend On:
•
• Absolute catchment size: “small” catchments (stream orders 1-3) discharge Absolute catchment size: “small” catchments (stream orders 1-3) discharge a greater proportiona greater proportion of water and have greater
of water and have greater flood flow than “large” catchment (stflood flow than “large” catchment (stream orders 4-6). ream orders 4-6). E.g. foothillsE.g. foothills will peak to flood more rapidly than plains, and may discharge 30-40% of rain. On plains only will peak to flood more rapidly than plains, and may discharge 30-40% of rain. On plains only 8-20% may occur as discharge.
20% may occur as discharge. •
• Stream gradient: Also exacerbates rapid discharge.Stream gradient: Also exacerbates rapid discharge. •
• Absolute storm size: Large storms may wet all of a small catchmentAbsolute storm size: Large storms may wet all of a small catchment without causing much run-off in lower
without causing much run-off in lower catchment.catchment. •
• Retardation swamps and basins: Swales, dams, swamps, basins,Retardation swamps and basins: Swales, dams, swamps, basins, water spreading generally
water spreading generally delay or obviate flood delay or obviate flood and run-off. and run-off. TheseThese are susceptible to our management. Sand beds and sand sheets are susceptible to our management. Sand beds and sand sheets have similar effects.
have similar effects. •
• Catchment form: Dendritic (tree form) catchment the most efficient.Catchment form: Dendritic (tree form) catchment the most efficient. Thus fold “trellis” and fault catchments discharge less, more slowly. Thus fold “trellis” and fault catchments discharge less, more slowly. •
• Drainage density: Dense streamlines remove water quickly; inter-Drainage density: Dense streamlines remove water quickly; inter-fluves retard flow, as do braided streams.
fluves retard flow, as do braided streams. •
• Vegetation: Type and density affect run-off. Trees and tussocksVegetation: Type and density affect run-off. Trees and tussocks retard; ephemerals and annuals or bare
retard; ephemerals and annuals or bare areas increase run-off, asareas increase run-off, as does burning or cultivation.
does burning or cultivation. •
• Sealed and rock areas: increase run-off. Also map soils and rockSealed and rock areas: increase run-off. Also map soils and rock types, shattered “intake” areas, boulder fields, sand cover.
types, shattered “intake” areas, boulder fields, sand cover. •
ef-fects. fects. •
• Rain duration: a primary factor. Roughly a Rain duration: a primary factor. Roughly a 4-5 year “wet” needed to flood 4-5 year “wet” needed to flood basins, 2-3 years tobasins, 2-3 years to recede.
recede.
Water Control:
Water Control: Managing Surface Run-off Managing Surface Run-off in Broad in Broad LandscapeLandscape
General rules: General rules:
•
• Modest trials; extend on successesModest trials; extend on successes •
• Do notDo notconcentrateconcentrateflow across even flow across even low slopes low slopes or they will gully or they will gully outout •
• AlwaysAlwaysspreadspreadandandab-
ab-sorb
sorbflow in pits, swales,flow in pits, swales, sands.
sands. •
• Try to totally absorb run-Try to totally absorb run-off into
off intovegetated areasvegetated areas
•
• Beware absorbing run-Beware absorbing run-off into bare areas as off into bare areas as this can raise the water this can raise the water table and cause salting table and cause salting •
• Plant trees over shallowPlant trees over shallow water tables
water tables •
• (insert #9 from page 5,(insert #9 from page 5, water flow-wadi)
water flow-wadi) Arroyos:
Arroyos: •
• Rock-cut channels on scarp, back slope and in pediment rock will lead water to walled fieldsRock-cut channels on scarp, back slope and in pediment rock will lead water to walled fields (walls 1.5m high). Water gates allow each field to be flooded or to spill to the next section for (walls 1.5m high). Water gates allow each field to be flooded or to spill to the next section for field crop.
field crop. •
• Small arroyos can be completely dammed across and sand absorption practiced.Small arroyos can be completely dammed across and sand absorption practiced. •
• Large arroyos need central floodway left open to spill to large, low-walled fields in plains if ex-Large arroyos need central floodway left open to spill to large, low-walled fields in plains if ex-cess water falls, these may fill
cess water falls, these may fill every 6-10 years; not nor-every 6-10 years; not nor-mally planted.
mally planted. •
• Shallow flood streams in foothills can be “bled off” atShallow flood streams in foothills can be “bled off” at bands to long swales 1-2m deep; overshadowed with bands to long swales 1-2m deep; overshadowed with trees. Swale base will carry crop seasonally.
trees. Swale base will carry crop seasonally.
Sandy Rivers: Sandy Rivers:
•
• Can be rock-dammed every 1-2km, at 1-2m deep, andCan be rock-dammed every 1-2km, at 1-2m deep, and sand allowed to fill dam area; spread floodwaters; absorb. sand allowed to fill dam area; spread floodwaters; absorb. •
• Walls can “leak” to next dam; areas can be tree-planted orWalls can “leak” to next dam; areas can be tree-planted or sub-surface drains led to pipes or a small open rockhole or sub-surface drains led to pipes or a small open rockhole or clearwater dam for aquaculture (this dam: 1/25
clearwater dam for aquaculture (this dam: 1/25ththof sandof sand dam area or less)
dam area or less) •
• A notched concrete sill in sandy river beds will spreadA notched concrete sill in sandy river beds will spread braided streams across entire flood plain; trees do well braided streams across entire flood plain; trees do well along braided channels. Absorption of water commonly along braided channels. Absorption of water commonly 10-20m from streambeds in sands (this may be due to tree 10-20m from streambeds in sands (this may be due to tree root reach).
root reach). •
• A 2-3m high bank towards a stream causes scour pool inA 2-3m high bank towards a stream causes scour pool in the stream bed (1/100
the stream bed (1/100ththof area of streambed will be per-of area of streambed will be per-manent).
manent). •
• Low permanent walls in flood plains retain silt and waterLow permanent walls in flood plains retain silt and water for crop.
Slopes Generally: Slopes Generally:
•
• Swaled at 1-3m vertical intervals, swales ofSwaled at 1-3m vertical intervals, swales of 2m deep, broad (3-5m); tree planted.
2m deep, broad (3-5m); tree planted. •
• Steeper slopes can be sculptured as Steeper slopes can be sculptured as “net and“net and pan”, “boomerang” banks.
pan”, “boomerang” banks. •
• Low slopes (3°) set out as a series of largeLow slopes (3°) set out as a series of large diamond-shaped basins of 0.5 hectare, each diamond-shaped basins of 0.5 hectare, each with a tree in the low corner, and a spillway with a tree in the low corner, and a spillway to the next diamond; even light rain soaks to the next diamond; even light rain soaks into these. Try for 150-200m deep ponds in into these. Try for 150-200m deep ponds in small areas.
small areas. Plains:
Plains: •
• Dams between hills by a 4-cast bulldozerDams between hills by a 4-cast bulldozer bank 1-5km long, banks 1-2m high, backing bank 1-5km long, banks 1-2m high, backing up water for 2-10km. This is then released up water for 2-10km. This is then released over next 4-8 days into chiseled fields 1/20 over next 4-8 days into chiseled fields 1/20thth the size of the flooded area, and allowed to the size of the flooded area, and allowed to soak in by
soak in by a succession a succession of floodings. of floodings. CropsCrops are planted in both the dammed area and the are planted in both the dammed area and the fields.
fields. A bypass cA bypass canal allows spillage of anal allows spillage of ex- ex-cess water.
cess water. •
• Patterned with great circles (30-50m across)Patterned with great circles (30-50m across) cast out by blades, squares, etc. to totally cast out by blades, squares, etc. to totally prevent run-off, and pelleted seed sown to prevent run-off, and pelleted seed sown to grow rangeland plants.
grow rangeland plants. Dunes:
Dunes: •
• Bases are good tree sites or wholeBases are good tree sites or whole dunes can be sown to oats in wet dunes can be sown to oats in wet pe-riods, with pelleted Acacia seed to riods, with pelleted Acacia seed to stabilize for permanent effects. stabilize for permanent effects. Fertil-izer (ammonia, zinc, iron, trace izer (ammonia, zinc, iron, trace ele-ments, molybdenum) is applied often ments, molybdenum) is applied often
and in small quantities- ideally in pelleted seed. and in small quantities- ideally in pelleted seed. •
• Between longitudinal dunes, low diversion banks will deflect Between longitudinal dunes, low diversion banks will deflect run-off into dune sands and run-off into dune sands and trees;trees; repeat every .05-1.5km or more frequently on broad
repeat every .05-1.5km or more frequently on broad pavements; plant trees in sands. Try forpavements; plant trees in sands. Try for ratio of 20:1 run-off: absorption.
ratio of 20:1 run-off: absorption. •
• Fences 1m high, 7m apart, 40% Fences 1m high, 7m apart, 40% penetrable stabilize dunes; need Acacia penetrable stabilize dunes; need Acacia or other hardy trees toor other hardy trees to make this permanent. Trees need a
make this permanent. Trees need a “collar” and pit 15cm or “collar” and pit 15cm or more deep to reduce heat on more deep to reduce heat on roots.roots. Claypans:
Claypans: •