Large plastic containers such as drums, barrels, or storage totes can be repurposed into wicking beds, providing a cost-effective and practical solution for growing plants in small spaces. With the added benefit of being able to control water levels, wicking beds are a great choice for areas with limited access to water.

To make a wicking bed from a large plastic container, you will need to drill large holes two-thirds of the way up from the bottom of the container. This allows water to escape if there is too much, avoiding total flooding. The top one-third of the container should be left intact, as it will serve as the planting area. The bottom two-thirds will be filled with a reservoir of water, and a wicking layer of gravel or sand will be placed above the holes.

Once the wicking layer is in place, a layer of soil is added on top, followed by compost or other organic matter to provide nutrients to the plants. The plants are then planted, and the wicking bed is watered from the top until the reservoir is full. From then on, the plants will draw water up from the reservoir via capillary action, making it a self-watering system.

Wicking beds are an excellent solution for small spaces or areas with poor soil quality. They require less water than traditional gardens, as the water is drawn up from the reservoir via capillary action, reducing the need for frequent watering. They are also an excellent option for growing plants that are sensitive to overwatering, such as succulents and other plants that prefer well-drained soil.

Permaculture principles emphasize the importance of designing and building gardens that mimic natural ecosystems. An optimal garden bed layout and design should consider factors such as water conservation, soil health, biodiversity, and functionality.

One of the key principles of permaculture is to use natural patterns and shapes in garden design. Circular, spiral, and wavy designs mimic the patterns found in nature and create a more aesthetically pleasing garden. This design also maximizes space by creating more surface area for planting and reduces the need for walking paths.

In terms of garden bed layout, it is best to follow the contour of the land. This allows for efficient water retention and prevents soil erosion. Raised garden beds can also be used to improve drainage and soil quality, especially if the native soil is of poor quality. Additionally, placing garden beds close to water sources such as rainwater tanks or ponds can minimize the need for irrigation and conserve water.

Biodiversity is also an essential component of a permaculture garden bed layout. Companion planting, crop rotation, and intercropping can all promote biodiversity, increase productivity and reduce pests and diseases. By planting a variety of plants, garden beds can provide habitat and food sources for a range of beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife.

Lastly, garden bed layout and design should be functional and practical. Paths should be wide enough for easy access and comfortable movement, and garden beds should be sized and spaced to allow for easy planting, harvesting, and maintenance. Use of recycled materials such as wood, bricks, or stones can also add an eco-friendly aspect to the garden design.

Not just a culinary herb! But it also has practical uses in the garden. This tall, perennial grass with its fragrant lemony aroma can be strategically placed throughout the garden to prevent damage to delicate plants when watering.

Dragging a heavy hose around the garden can be a risky business, especially if the garden is full of plants that are easily damaged. But by placing lemon grass in strategic locations, you can protect your garden from damage while also enjoying its many benefits.

To use lemon grass as a garden protector, plant it in rows along the edges of garden beds or in pots around delicate plants. The tall grass blades will serve as a natural barrier, guiding the hose away from delicate plants and preventing it from dragging across them. Additionally, the natural oils in lemon grass repel insects, making it an effective natural insect repellent.

Lemon grass is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. It can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, so it's ideal for use as a garden border. It can also be grown in pots, making it an ideal plant for small gardens or balconies.

Mixing annual and perennial plants in a kitchen garden can bring many benefits to both the garden and the gardener. Perennial plants live for multiple growing seasons, while annual plants complete their life cycle in one growing season, but both can thrive in a kitchen garden environment.

One of the main benefits of mixing annual and perennial plants in a kitchen garden is biodiversity. By growing a variety of plants, you can create a more resilient ecosystem, with a range of plants that provide different functions such as pest control, soil building, and nutrient cycling. A diverse garden also promotes beneficial insects and pollinators that can help to increase yields and control pests naturally.

Annual plants are often used in kitchen gardens because they produce a quick yield and can be used for succession planting. Perennial plants, on the other hand, have a longer lifespan and are often easier to care for. By mixing annual and perennial plants, gardeners can have a continuous supply of fresh produce throughout the growing season, while also enjoying the ease of caring for perennials.

Another benefit of mixing annual and perennial plants is that it can help to improve soil health. Perennial plants often have deep root systems that can penetrate the soil and break up compacted soil layers. This allows for better water and nutrient absorption, which can benefit annual plants grown in the same garden space. Additionally, the organic matter produced by perennial plants can help to improve soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability.