The aims of permaculture include restoring the soil, long term sustainability, and ethical use of resources. The earth runs a certain cycle in order to restore the ecosystems naturally. Permaculture studies the cycles of nature in order to speed up the process in a natural way.

When soil is exposed or depleted of nutrients, weeds sprout up (much to the annoyance of anyone with a lawn or garden). These weeds, while hated by most, are incredibly important. They are first succession plants that are replenishing the soil and stabilizing it. Many weeds are nitrogen fixers and naturally convert the nutrient from the air into the soil. Many wildflowers are included in this process. Experts are able to look at what weeds and flowers are naturally sprouting up in the area and pin point what nutrients are missing from the soil.

Next up are the grasses, as the weeds start to fade out the grasses come in and prepare the soil for the shrubs. From shrubs the natural procession is small trees, then big trees, and finally a climax forest or prairie. This process uses the efforts and energies of the previous plants to push forward to a more mature ecosystem. It is “recycling” the energy.

Cycles are important. If we do not study the cycles then we cannot effectively promote the aims of permaculture. Notice cycles and think about them as you hike through a native area or forest. If you frequently pass an empty lot, watch how it evolves over time. Reconnect to the cycles by spending time outside (and getting that much needed fresh air and Vitamin D). Once you have a better idea of the natural cycles, then you can design and plan for them, thus promoting a healthy design.

Kate Higdon
Certified Permaculture Designer
Perfect Lawns and Landworks
Austin, Texas