Using planting spaces efficiently

Photo by Francesco Gallarotti on Unsplash

In the northern hemisphere in January, plant interactions are restricted to houseplant care or visiting a nursery with a heated greenhouse. Even though I can't get outside and work on a favorite permaculture project, it is a great time for learning about design ideas.

Many people live in areas where access to growing space is limited. Happily, there are a variety of techniques that can be used to create productive and biodiverse permaculture gardens, even in small spaces. Here are a few examples to get you started:

Vertical gardening: One way to maximize the productivity of small spaces is to grow plants vertically. This can be done by building trellises, installing hanging baskets, or using wall-mounted planters. Vertical gardening can also be combined with other techniques, such as companion planting and intercropping, to further increase the yield of the garden.

Companion planting: Companion planting involves growing different plants together that have a beneficial relationship. For example, planting beans near corn can increase the yield of both crops, as the beans can fix nitrogen in the soil, which is beneficial for the corn. Companion planting can also help to deter pests and attract beneficial insects.

Intercropping: Intercropping is a technique in which different crops are grown together in the same space. This can be done by planting different crops in alternating rows or by using a method called "succession planting," in which different crops are planted in the same space at different times. Intercropping can help to increase the yield of the garden and can also help to deter pests and diseases.

Mulching: Mulching is a technique that involves covering the soil with a layer of organic material, such as leaves, straw, or grass clippings. Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil, which can be especially beneficial in small gardens that may dry out quickly. It also helps to suppress weeds and add organic matter to the soil as it breaks down.

Keyhole gardening: Keyhole gardening is a technique that involves creating a circular garden bed with a central composting area. This allows for efficient use of space and easy access to the center of the bed for composting and maintenance. Keyhole gardening is also a good technique for small spaces because it allows for a high density of plants to be grown in a small area.

Square foot gardening: Square foot gardening is a method that involves dividing the garden bed into small squares and planting different crops in each square. This allows for efficient use of space, easy maintenance, and a high density of plants. It also allows for companion planting and intercropping and can be a good technique for small spaces.

These are just a few examples of techniques that can be used to create productive and biodiverse permaculture gardens in small spaces. There are The most effective approach will depend on the specific conditions of the site, such as the climate, soil, and available resources. With a thoughtful design and careful consideration of the available techniques, it is possible to create a small but productive and diverse permaculture garden that can provide food, medicine, and other resources.