Inflation, food shortages, and pollution are becoming prevalent.
This is precisely why so many people are learning more about gardening and experimenting with homesteading.
Together, these two enable a family to have an organic food supply while upholding a lovely environment.
Permaculture makes it easy.
But for some who are not yet familiar with these terms, what exactly are “homesteading” and “permaculture”?
Homesteading is the practice of relying on oneself and one’s resources in order to thrive.
Permaculture is all about relationships.
In order to create a self-sustaining ecosystem, this gardening and farming practice takes stock of all the natural and existing relationships the landscape has.
Where does the sunlight fall and for how long? What areas stay wet and cool? Which stays hot and dry? Then, which plants like what best?
It’s all about setting up good relationships between the plants, animals, soil, sunlight, wind, and water in the area you have to work with.
It’s also easier than you might think. Many homesteaders frequently research the permaculture movement to learn more about how to develop their way of life.
Chris of The Good Earth Projects For Your Backyard shares projects that you can start in your backyard.
These are beneficial, easy to make, and will make your homesteading thrive.
10 Backyard permaculture projects
1. Herb bed
A herb bed is very beneficial for your homesteading lifestyle and you can create one even in a small area and in any shape that you want.
You can add multiple medicinal or culinary herbs. Chris has around 40-45 species of medicinal plants in his herb bed.
2. Mini Swale
Artificial swales, which are infiltration basins used to promote rainwater infiltration and manage runoff, are frequently used.
They can be small or large scale depending on the size of your backyard.
3. Hugelmound
Hugelcultures, often known as “hugel mounds,” is a method for building raised beds that eventually decompose into fertile mounds. Why do you need it?
They operate under the premise of simulating how a forest regenerates itself: dead wood falls and rots, branches fall, and leaf litter builds up on top.
4. Guild Planting
You can also start a plant guild in your backyard. It is “a beneficial collection of plants that has a symbiotic relationship with one another.
Each one has its role to play and they will all benefit. In Chris’ garden, you see one tree in the middle with many plants surrounding it.
5. Hedgerow
A hedgerow is a row of various plants and small trees growing closely together, particularly around 5-6 ft., and serves as a visual barrier.
Aside from that, Chris gets to harvest quality berries.
6. Pollinator Garden
Don’t forget to add a pollinator garden. An edible yield comprising perennial plants that will be a favorite place of pollinating insects like butterflies and bees.
It’s also an aesthetically pleasing area. Place a bench and a table so you can use this place to relax.
7. Raised beds
Chris said they have a vast plantation of vegetables on their farm, but he created a raised bed in his backyard so he can get vegetables easily.
Raised beds would be a suitable alternative if you have rocky or dry soil.
8. Water catchment
The collection of pipes must be located underground to link many downspouts from various gutters using this technique.
This way, you get to collect water and use it for your garden.
9. Compost pile
Homesteading won’t be complete without a compost pile. You reduce trash and create an organic by-product that helps all your plants grow healthy.
10. Greenhouse
Having a greenhouse is one of the best projects you can start in your backyard.
Here, you can control the temperature and humidity you expose your plants to, thus allowing you to grow them all year long.
11. Integrated livestock (BONUS)
You can start having rabbits on your farm. They eat vegetables and grass, and their waste is actually excellent fertilizer. Guinea pigs are also a splendid choice.
These are just some ideas that were shared for those who want inspiration, but it’s still up to you on how you can grow your garden.
Learn more about putting these abundantly helpful tips to use in the video below!
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