Getting Started: Assessment

Embarking on a journey to create a permaculture and regenerative garden is an exciting endeavor. By incorporating sustainable practices, working with nature's patterns, and maximizing resource efficiency, you can cultivate a thriving ecosystem in your own backyard. However, before you start planting seeds, it's crucial to assess your space and understand its unique characteristics. In this blog post, we will explore the essential steps to assess your space for a permaculture and regenerative garden, enabling you to make informed decisions and design a harmonious and resilient landscape.

1. Observe and Analyze: Begin by taking the time to observe and analyze your space. Study the patterns of sunlight, wind, and water flow throughout the day and seasons. Identify microclimates, areas with different soil conditions, and potential challenges like erosion or waterlogging. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions about garden layout and plant selection.
2. Identify Zones: Permaculture design emphasizes zoning, where different areas of your garden serve specific purposes based on their proximity to your living space and the level of maintenance required. Zone 0, closest to your home, is typically reserved for high-intensity use and crops that require frequent attention, such as herbs and salad greens.
   The joke goes if you're quickly grabbing some herbs for your morning omelet, and your fuzzy slippers get wet, Zone 0 is not close enough.
   Zone 1 is for medium-intensity crops, fruit trees, and small livestock, while Zone 3-5 is dedicated to larger crops and livestock. Beyond Zone 3, you may have natural areas or wild zones. Identifying your zones helps optimize your garden's layout and efficiency in relation to your lifestyle.
3. Assess Soil Health: The foundation of a thriving garden lies in healthy soil. Assess the quality of your soil by observing its texture, drainage, and nutrient content. Perform a soil test to determine its pH level and nutrient deficiencies. If needed, amend the soil with organic matter, compost, or cover crops to improve its structure and fertility. Understanding your soil will guide your plant selection and inform any necessary soil improvement strategies. To get started you do not NEED to do this step but it is highly recommended in year 2+. Over time you can learn how to observe what weeds/plants thrive in your space and that can actually indicate your Soil Health!
4. Consider Water Management: Efficient water management is crucial in a permaculture and regenerative garden. Evaluate the natural water flow patterns on your property, including runoff, areas prone to flooding, or spots that tend to dry out quickly. Consider installing rainwater harvesting systems, swales, or contour beds to capture and redistribute water efficiently. By managing water effectively, you reduce the need for additional irrigation and promote a self-sustaining ecosystem.
   For Example, our Garden is fed by a natural spring. Some summers we have watered only twice all season long! However, in the Winter/Spring, the garden is prone to flooding and creating anaerobic soil conditions! As a result, we have a later start to our in-ground season for up to two-thirds of our growing space and are making choices each season that improve the flooding and retain the water in the soil during droughts!
   (See the "Double-Dig Method" in How to Start a Regenerative Garden)
5. Assess Biodiversity and Ecological Connections: Permaculture and regenerative gardening encourage biodiversity and ecological connections. Identify existing plant and animal species in your area and understand their roles in the ecosystem. Assess how you can support and attract beneficial wildlife, such as pollinators and pest predators. Design your garden to provide habitat, food sources, and nesting opportunities for various creatures. Creating a diverse and interconnected ecosystem fosters resilience and balance.
6. Incorporate Vertical Space: Make the most of your available space by considering vertical gardening techniques. Assess walls, fences, or trellises that can support climbing plants, such as vines or espaliered fruit trees. Vertical gardening not only maximizes space utilization but also provides additional microhabitats for beneficial insects and increases overall productivity.

Assessing your space is a crucial step in creating a permaculture and regenerative garden. By observing and analyzing your environment, identifying zones, understanding soil health, managing water efficiently, and promoting biodiversity, you set the stage for a resilient and thriving ecosystem. Incorporate these assessments into your garden design, and remember that permaculture is a dynamic process that adapts and evolves over time. Embrace the principles of permaculture and regenerative gardening, and watch your space transform into a sustainable and abundant oasis. Let's cultivate a harmonious relationship with nature and create a garden that not only provides food and beauty but also contributes to the health of our planet. Remember, every space is unique, and the assessment process allows you to tailor your garden to its specific characteristics and needs. As you embark on your permaculture and regenerative gardening journey, keep learning, experimenting, and connecting with like-minded individuals to expand your knowledge and share your experiences. By taking these intentional steps, you become a steward of the land, nurturing an ecosystem that supports life in all its forms. So, assess your space with care and embark on this transformative journey towards a more sustainable and regenerative future. Happy gardening!