The phrase for this is, “Don’t think you are on the right track just because it’s a well-beaten path.” Permaculture values crazy ideas and experiments. Done properly, permaculture can be a scientific endeavor where people test their ideas, no matter how strange or unusual. Who knows? Your idea may be just the right answer for someone’s situation. Have a problem? How can you use it as a benefit? On an ecological standpoint, the marginal place between two systems is the most diverse and special. The edge between a forest and a field support more species than both systems combined. It doesn’t just support forest species or field species. It also has species particular to the edge that do not exist elsewhere. Why do permies make everything wavy instead of straight? Because waves maximize edge and edge equals cool stuff. Don’t build a round pond. Make a pond shaped like an amoeba with lots of different depths. It can support so much more and you will be able to plant so much more in the same amount of space. You will hear permies talk about the edge for days. They will say how straight lines rarely exist in nature. Some others will try to make everything round and wavy just because it maximizes edge, even if it decreases functionality. There is a happy medium to maintain between having as much edge as possible while still being functional. My garden uses boxy raised beds, typical of a Southern Living magazine. But that is not permie, you say. It is not wavy and edgy! This is true. However, my native soil is so heavy, and it has rained so much, that if I do not have raised beds I won’t be able to grow anything soon enough to feed myself. That is all well and good, you say, but why have beds in straight lines? Because making round beds with the material I have to use is cost prohibitive. I can make round, wavy beds, or something reminiscent of a Mandala. Mandala gardens are very popular. I have chosen not to do that in my intensive fenced-in garden. It goes against my permie grain to do it, but it is the best decision for my needs. Everything outside the garden is as textbook permie as could be.
My point is that the purpose of your permaculture system is to FEED YOU. Ecological principles such as maximizing edge and valuing the marginal areas of life must peacefully coexist with your need to eat, not become tyrants. The edge is a tool. Use your tools as best as you can. The edge is extremely valuable. It is almost always the most productive area of your system. Use it wherever you can, but don’t let this principle work you. You are supposed to work the principle. If a part of a design does not work for you or your client, then it doesn’t work for you or your client. The principles are a textbook. In your life as a permie, you eventually have to get outside the textbook and begin to do what you need done. Comments are closed.
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Rebecca Burrow
I am a Christian permie designer trying to spread the word about Christian land stewardship through permaculture. I like goats a lot. Maaaaaaaah. Archives
September 2016
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Burrow Permaculture Consulting | Permie Blog |