wild heart permaculture Creating edible, medicinal & productive landscapes Nicole Vosper www.wildheartpermaculture.co.uk Email: nicole@wildheartpermaculture.co.

uk Tel: 07543463025 or 01458 448900 Concept Design report Client: Susan McGuiness, Church Stretton, Shropshire Design Brief To create a garden that is a manifestation of the client's holistic values, spirituality and approach to sustainable living. The space will be multifunctional, meeting the clients basic needs with the manageable small scale growing of fruits, vegetables, salads and flowers. It is to become a place of biodiversity that supports local wildlife and attracts many natural visitors to the garden. The garden will be an extension of the client's home and will offer a space to entertain visiting family and friends, both to sit, cook and share meals as well as to help with cultivation. It must be useable for all ages and abilities. In its creation the garden is to become an authentic place of joy and peace for all species, reflecting the surrounding landscape and offer those who spend time in it, a spiritually strengthening and nourishing experience. In the long term it can potentially offer a therapeutic space for clients as compliment and extension to the client's home-based practice. The garden is to be low maintenance but still offer opportunities for active cultivation and care. Planting is to be diverse and beautiful however it is also a functional space and a highly ornamental formal garden is not desired. A wild and naturalistic planting scheme is encouraged in many areas. The garden will become a place of spiritual earth-based connection through its central feature of a labyrinth. Components of the garden where when possible will be a reflection of the directions and elemental associations. Aromatic plants and herbs will be key features and the garden will offer a sensory experience. Multi-level planting schemes will be designed to enhance space in the medium sized garden, including climbers on the house and other structures. The garden will also offer learning opportunities to the client and designer and will be implemented on a manageable scale over a long-term period. A small budget offers a design challenge to maximize the use of local, recycled and waste materials. In summary, the garden will be an opportunity to create a sacred space that integrates into the life path of the client and offers opportunities to connect and create right relationship with the land for all those who visit.

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The permaculture design process To prepare this concept design I have used the first aspects of a common permaculture design tool called SADIMET:

Survey: This relates to the first permaculture principle of observe & interact. A survey includes both noting details and observations in the garden as well as gathering the pre-planning information needed from the Design Questionnaire with the client. Analysis: This involves looking at all of the information collected above and systematically analyzing it so we can better decide the placement of components and their relationships. A key part is looking at functions, systems and components and the links between them. Zone analysis looks at how the client interacts with the site on a daily basis, for example how often paths are used or which parts of the garden are in easy reach for maintenance. Sector analysis, where we look at and how outside energies affect the site, such as the climate, outside views, precipitation and so forth. Design: Now that we know what we are trying to achieve with the design, we look at what systems and elements can fulfill our desired and needed functions. Concept plans are drawn which are then discussed and reviewed together with the client. Implementation: When a consensus has been achieved in terms of the design, a detailed design can be completed to the specification of the client, for example detailed planting schemes. An implementation plan then looks at the timeline of costs and yields and how a design can be most practically and affordably be implemented. Maintenance: An outline of annual maintenance can be drawn with the associated costs of time. Evaluation: The client and designer can then both informally and formally evaluate the design following implementation. Tweak: Every design can be tweaked for maximum yields. All designs are dynamic and will continue to change following the clients and designers learning pathways in permaculture.

Concept design notes This reports aims to illustrate the decisions behind producing the concept plan for 46 Central Avenue. Below are a number of points that remain to be discussed with the client. Back Garden Labyrinth The client in the Design Questionnaire, to be a way of using the space to form a therapeutic and spiritual place, communicated the idea of a creating a labyrinth. This
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has formed the central component of the design; however there may be some points to review before forming a final design:

Space to create a traditional labyrinth pattern, requires a large amount of space to enable both walking access and the formation of edges through planting. This may limit which other components may physically fit in the garden. Does the client need a full sized labyrinth? If it is shortened will this effect the energy created with it? Where does the feature stand in terms of priority in relation to food production? Is another direction a possibility for its alignment? Plantings having researched labyrinths in greater depths it is clear that most designs have a uniform scheme for effect, for example paths and hedging/planting contrasting. If only one plant is chosen to perform this role then there needs to be consideration over cost, scent (for example 200 lavender plants may create an intense aroma), and appearance. The other option is to create a more diverse scheme, for example to have different herbs forming different concentric circles e.g. thymes, mints, then lavenders. Another potential is to use a small hedging smalls, such as Box, however this may not have the same biodiversity benefits, multifunction or visual appeal depending on preference. Pathways the materials used to produce the paths of the labyrinth will need to be affordable and in line with the vibrational essences the client has communicated her desire for, for example only using natural materials. A black plastic membrane often forms the basis of many paths to block out weeds; an alternative may need to be sought. Other potential materials include woodchips, gravel, sand or paving slabs but again unless found second hand or recycled they may involve a substantial investment. Costings As explored above, depending on the size and materials chosen there will need to be a budget sufficient enough to cover the creation of the labyrinth.

Directional & Elemental Associations The four directions and their elemental associations have been integrated into the design in the following ways: Each direction has a statue/sculpture or permanent fixture where those using the garden for spiritual journeying can focus their spiritual intent and connection and say prayers or place items such as incense or herb offerings, or light a candle for example. North element of Earth. In the northern corner of the garden, which happens to be one of the sunniest areas there is the placement of the raised beds for growing food as well as the beds for herbs and other plants. The planting could be designed to integrate evergreen species as to connect with the colour of the plant kingdom, materials on paths could include bark or stone. East element of Air. Items supporting bird life, such as a table, feeders and bath are placed here as to honour their associations with the Air and wind. South element of Fire. As the south and fire is often associated with sexuality, energy and fertility, fruit bushes have been placed in this corner due to their red berries being a manifestation of this energy. As it is furthest away from the house they are also low-maintenance and the corner receives some shade throughout the day and year. West element of Water. To connect with water a pond has been designed
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which will allow the client and garden visitors to attune with this elemental energy. Due to the slight slope, a subtle fountain/waterfall structure could be landscaped to create the flow of running water. A bench as also been placed next to this feature so its function can be enhanced. The pond will bring biodiversity benefits to the garden, aid pest control and edible species can also be chosen such as water chestnuts. Food production Key Zone 1 production the main area of food growing is in close proximity to the house, to enable greater care and attention and easier maintenance. The beds are also designed in a way that the clients mother can access them from a wheelchair. They have been designed to allow access from all sides to help with tasks such as weeding and watering and if constructed from recycled materials such as sleepers they may also look quite visually attractive. Container plants in the paved area there is also room for several container grown herbs, fruits and vegetables to the clients preferences. Herbs within picking distance of the kitchen are particularly recommended. Front garden as the front garden is currently mainly used as a passageway to the more private back garden and house, it would be a positive design measure to plant species that are low maintenance. In the one corner, unless it is developed into a car parking space, the corner could facilitate a fruit tree on a half-standard rootstock. This would provide fruit for the client and underneath the tree, an attractive living mulch could be created with wildflower bulbs and herbs so that it is aesthetically pleasing to passersby. Integrated planting as permaculture systems aim to use plants, which are where possible edible or high yielding for humans, there is no reason why traditional planting schemes used by gardeners, such as attractive perennial borders, cannot be created with edible, medicinal or insect-attracting and wildlife-friendly plants. This ethos has been applied to areas such as the front garden, which has an attractive established circular planting scheme, and could be developed through species choice to be a beautiful, low maintenance, diverse border.

Potential plantings Once there is consensus for a certain design, I can then draw up more specific planting plans, which will enable the client to see which species can be grown or bought and the functions they serve as well as the needs they have. In permaculture systems plant species and their placement are chosen on the following precepts: Function preferably serving at least 3 functions in the system Frequency of harvesting and use how often you will need to visit a plant. Level of maintenance Plants life expectancy for example choosing long-lived perennials that outlive energy-intensive annuals Growth habit (or adult shape) and their spaced required when mature. Requirements for water, sun and wind if they are suitable to the climate and microclimates of the system
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 Resource use how much water or nutrition the plants demand Species Apple, Malus domestica Size M26 2.5 4m, 3.5m wide or MM106 Needs Doesnt like root competition Max sun Cooking apples can tolerate partial shade Pollination partner Pruning Feeding esp. from nitrogen fixers Full sun Pollination partner Prefers fertile soils but will tolerate poorer soils Tolerates some shade Shelter Self-fertile Shade Little maintenance needed Yields Fruits Shade Potential location Front or back garden Other notes Grow comfrey near by. Look up local varieties.

Pear, Pyrus communis

Dogwoods, Cornus spp.

2.5-5m dependi ng on Quince rootstoc k, 44.5m wide 4-6m, 35m wide 4m high and wide

Fruits Shade

Front or back garden

May be at risk of frost.

Fruits Ornament al Edible fruit in spring (nibbling quantities ) Bee plant. Nitrogen fixer. Fruits esp. for jam Bee plant Nitrogen fixer Fruits Nitrogen fixer Bee plant Hedging

In hedge near path?

Elaeagnus x ebbingei

In hedge near path?

Cornelian cherry & Chinese dogwood are common Drought & exposure tolerant

Autumn olive, Elaegnus umbellata Sea Buckthorn, Hippophae spp.

5m high

Unfussy, tolerates some shade & exposure. Well drained soil Full sun Tolerates exposure Maintenance to stop it being invasive

In hedge near path?

3.4m x 5m high

In hedge near path? At back of back garden?

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Hazel, Corylus spp.

5-6m

Bay, Laurus nobilis

Blackcurrant, Ribes nigrum

Up to 6m but can be kept shrubby Up to 2m x 2m

Needs pollination partner Fruits best in sun Well drained soil Maintenance if keeping small Sun or part shade

Nuts Poles

Hedging at back of back garden?

Spice from leaves Fruit Bee plant Dyes

Less shade if possible Tolerant of many soils Pruning occasionally Tolerates shade Something to climb up Shade Feeding

Red/white currant, Ribes rubrum Raspberries, Rubus idaeus

2m x 1m 2m, each cane biennial

Fruits Bee plant Fruit Teas Bee plant May become invasive, thornless varieties recommend ed Spreads by suckers

Salal/Shallon, Gaultheria shallon Goji Berry, Lycium barbarum Roses, Rosa spp. Ruga rosa

1.2 x 2.5

Acid soil. Tolerates deep shade. Prefers sun. Tolerates most soil. Room to spread Tolerates most soil Part shade Sun Shelter from cold winds Well drained soil Sun Well drained soil

2-3m 1.5-2m

Fruit Great bumblebe e plant Hedging Fruit. Bee plant. Hips for teas. Edible flowers. Bee plant. Hedging. Aroma Leaves for cooking Aroma Medcinal Bee plant Leaves for cooking Aroma Back of garden as hedge? By walkway?

Untidy/strag gly, risk of spreading

Rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis Sage, Salvia officinalis

1.2m x 1.2m

Herb garden area

0.6m x 1m

Herb garden area

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Lavender, Lavandula spp. Willows, Salix spp. Roses including Rusa rugosa American Elder, Sambucus Canadensis Strawberries, Fragaria spp.

0.60.9m x 0.75m

Sun or light shade Well drained soil Most soils & tolerates partial shade Tolerates most soils & substantial shade Most soils. Prefers sun.

Medcinal Bee plant Aroma Medcinal Bee plant

Herb garden area, labyrinth?

1.5-2m high 2.5-3m high & wide 1525cm, spreadi ng widely 45cm 1.5cm tall 3050cm tall 60100cm tall

Aroma Medicinal Beauty Cosmetic Edible Medicinal Edible

End of back garden End of back garden, hedge near path Flowers longer than European elder

Perennial leek, Allium ampeloprasum var. babingtonii Welsh Onion, Allium fistulosum Perennial cabbages include. Broccoli, collards & kale, Brassica olera cea Turkish Rocket, Bunias orientalis

Any soils, prefers sun but will tolerate shade Well drained soil Fertile soil, sun preferred but will tolerate light shade. Any reasonable soil, will tolerate partial shade Well drained soil, will tolerate partial shade Well drained soil. Prefers sun.

Edible

If a perennial bed is created Perennial If a perennial bed is created Perennial

Edible Edible

80cm tall x 30cm wide 30cm x 20cm 1-1.5m x 40cm

Edible

If a perennial bed is created

Bellflowers/Hare bells, Campanula spp. Fennel, Foeniculum vulgare

Mallows, Malva spp.

60100cm

Not too acid a soil or over-fertile.

Edible flowers & leaves. Bee plant Edible Medicinal Mineral accumula tor Beneficial insects Edible. Bee plant.

Herb garden area

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Lemon Balm, Melissa officinalis

6080cm

Will tolerate part shade. Well drained soil, will tolerate shade.

Edible Aromatic Bee plant Mineral accumula tor Edible Medicinal

Herb garden area & other places

Mints (various), Mentha spp.

60120cm high dependi ng on species 4560cm x 40cm wide 20cm high & spreadi ng 50cm x 30cm

Room to spread. Moist soil. Will tolerate shade but prefers sun. Well drained soil. Will tolerate partshade. Part shade. Moist but well drained. Any moist soil. Tolerates partial shade. Well drained but moist soil. Will tolerate shade. Most soils, will tolerate part shade. Humus-rich soil. Will tolerate shade. Humus-rich soil. Well drained soil. Lots of humus. Well drained soil. Will tolerate part shade. Well drained soil.

Herb garden area

Including water, bowless, horse, pepper, spear and apple mint

Oregano, Origanum vulgare Wood Sorrel, Oxalis acetosella Salad Burnet, Sanguisorba minor Violets, Viola spp.

20cm & spreadi ng

Day Lilies, Hemerocallis spp. Primrose, Primula vulgaris Rhubarbs, Rheum spp. Coneflowers, Echinacea purpurea St Johns Wort, Hypericum perforatum Feverfew, Tanacetum

4560cm 20cm x 30cm 1.2-5m x 1.15m wide 1.2 x 45cm 1m x 30cm 60cm x 25cm

Edible. Bee & butterfly plant. Edible. Mineral accumula tor Edible. Bee plant. Mineral accumula tor Edible. Medicinal. Insect plant. Mineral accumula tor Edible. Edible flowers. Bee plant. Edible. Medicinal. Bee plant. Medicinal plant. Dye plant. Bee plant. Medicinal. Beneficial

Herb garden area Shaded area

Evergreen

Vegetable area.

Herb garden area.

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parthenium Comfrey, Symphytum spp. 2m & spreadi ng

Tolerates part shade. Any moist soil. Will tolerate shade. Most soils. Tolerates part shade.

insects. Medicinal. Bee plant. Mineral accumula tor. Mulch. Medicinal. Insect attractant . Mineral accumula tor Edible Back of garden & in shady areas.

Valerian, Valeriana officinalis

1.2-2m x 80cm

May become invasive.

Swiss chard/Spinach beet, Beta vulgaris Pot Marigolds, Calendula officinalis Sweet Peas, Lathyrus odoratus Nasturtiums, Trapaeolum majus

60cm x 40cm 5070cm x 30cm 2-3m high

Well drained soil. Most soils. Will tolerate part shade. Sun. Moist soil.

Low maintenanc e, self-seeds

Honeysuckle, Lonicera periclymenum Grapes, Vitis spp. Wisteria, Wisteria spp. Angelica, Angelica archangelica Basil, Ocium basilicum Elder, Sambucas nigra Thyme, Thymus

Climber s up to 3m, otherwi se trailing Climber

Sun. Most soils.

Edible. Insect attractant , Medicinal Nitrogen fixer. Bee plant. Cut flower. Edible. Bee plant.

Most soils. Will tolerate shade. Moist, welldrained soil. Prefers sun. Moist, welldrained soil. Deep, moist soil. Light shade. Well drained soil. Sun Moist loamy soil. Sun Light well

Climber Climber.

Bee plant. Aromatic. Basketry material. Edible. Bee plant. Aromatic. Nitrogen fixing. Herbal medicine Edible Medicinal Edible Medicinal Medicinal

Climb up house?

Climb up house?

2m x 1m 45cm x 30cm 3.5 x 3.5m 20 x

Annual Back of garden?

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vulgaris Bilberry, Vaccinium myrtillus Tea chrysanthemum, Chrysanthemum x grandiflorum Sweet cicely, Myrrhis odorata Peonies, Paeonia officinalis

30cm 60 x 60cm

100 x 60cm 1m x 1m 1m x 60cm

drained soil. Sun Well drained, peaty, moist acidic soil. Sun or light shade. Well drained soil. Sun or light shade. Moist rich soil. Light shade. Deep, alkalineneutral soil. Sun or light shade. Well drained soil. Sun Light, well drained soil. Full sun. Moist, well drained soil. Sun or partial shade. Rich, moist, well-drained soil. Sun Most soils. Sun Well drained soil. Sun Light, dry soil. Sun Well-drained, sandy loam soil. Sun Well-drained, light, rich soil. Sun Well drained loamy soil. Sun &

Edible Edible Medicinal Would need own area/soil.

Medicinal

Medicinal Aromatic Beauty Medicinal

Yarrow, Achillea millefolium Hyssop, Hyssopus officinalis Parsley, Petroselinum crispum Dill, Anethum graveolens Borage, Borago officinalis German chamomile, Matricaria recutita Catnip, Nepata cataria Evening primrose, Oenothera biennis Passionflower, Passiflora incarnata Jasmine, Jasminum officinale

1m x 60cm 45 x 65cm 60 x 60cm

Medicinal Insect attractant Medicinal Aromatic Medicinal Edible

60 x 20cm 60 x 30cm 45 x 35 cm 1m x 60cm 1m x 30cm 9m climber 10m climber

Medicinal Edible Insect attractant Medicinal Edible Bee plant Medicinal Bee plant Medicinal Medicinal

Annual. Self-seeder Annual

Do we want to attract cats?!

Edible Medicinal Aromatic Medicinal

Climbing up house? Climbing up house?

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Madonna Lily, Lilium candidum Clary sage, Salvia sclarea

1.5 x 45cm 1.5 x 1m

Dislikes wet winters too wet in Shropshire? Others: traditional annual vegetables & varied salad crops. Edible pond plants. Other plants considered but not considered appropriate: Apricots very sensitive to frost, may not be able to cope with Shropshire Plums need space, 3.5-4.5m and pollination partner Hawthorns can be found easily in hedgerows Mulberries again needs space as a tree 5-10m high Sloes/blackthorn easily found in woodlands/hedgerows Elder also easily found in hedgerows Rowans again, easily found in the wild. Lime trees probably pretty easy to find locally, can grow massive. Nepalese raspberry great edible groundcover but may become invasive. One to consider. Ramsons probably easy to find locally in the wild. Lovage too tall most likely for small garden. Milk thistle gorgeous but may be invasive Worcesterberry like gooseberries, not liked by client!

warmth. Well-drained, fertile soil. Sun Well-drained, sandy soil. Sun

Medicinal Beauty Medicinal Aromatic

Spiritual associations

Wild Heart Permaculture 2011