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What is Permaculture?
Permaculture is a holistic approach to gardening that mimics natural ecosystems. It layers plants—trees, shrubs, vines, perennials, and ground covers—to maximize growing space while supporting both humans and wildlife. Permaculture builds soil structure by not tilling and by adding biomass from plants included in the design, and it contributes positively to the water cycles. Think of it as a beautifully designed edible forest that works with nature instead of against it.
What is the easiest way to start?
I can consult with you about using existing beds in your garden and working with the plants you have. Then we can remove invasive or ineffectual plants and weave in native and/or fruiting species. Reach out to me, and I will help you redesign the existing space with the best fits for your sun exposure, soil type, and productivity needs.
Why should I choose a Permaculture Garden?
A Permaculture Garden isn’t just about beauty—it’s about creating a self-sustaining, regenerative space that provides food, supports pollinators, and enriches the soil. Permaculture is not the high maintenance, resource-demanding standard landscape planning you find in most suburban yards. It uses less water, no chemicals, and little maintenance, while giving back to the land and supporting biodiversity.
What are your rates?
Pricing ranges from $120 to $250, depending on the package you choose. Installation is available at $80 per hour, plus the cost of materials.
For a personalized quote, let’s chat about your space and vision!
How much space do I need?
Permaculture can work in any size garden! We offer:
Small (100-200 sqft) – Perfect for courtyards or urban yards.
Medium (200-500 sqft) – A layered, diverse ecosystem.
Large (500+ sqft) – A full-fledged food forest.
Even a tiny space can be transformed with the right design!
Does a Permaculture Garden require a lot of maintenance?
No garden is truly maintenance-free, but Permaculture is designed to become easier over time. Once established, it self-regulates—reducing weeds, conserving water, and feeding itself naturally. You’ll mostly be harvesting rather than tending, with seasonal upkeep as needed. I also offer optional maintenance visits if you’d like extra support.
What does a Permaculture Garden look like?
Unlike formal gardens with clipped hedges, Permaculture tends to be naturalistic, soft-edged, and organic. However, the style can be tailored to your preferences! Whether you love a wild, meadow-like look or a more structured aesthetic, I’ll design a garden that brings you joy.
What plants will be included?
I carefully select plants based on:
- Your goals (food production, pollinators, visual appeal, etc.)
- Your location (sun, soil, and climate conditions)
- Maintenance preferences (low vs. high involvement)
Each garden is custom-curated, and I provide a detailed plant list before installation.
I will never include plants that are considered invasive to the region.
Why don’t you use chemicals to fertilize or treat garden problems?
Permaculture is designed to be a self-sustaining system once established. Instead of relying on artificial fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides, I incorporate plants that naturally support the ecosystem—nutrient-fixing plants to enrich the soil, insectary plants to attract beneficial predators, and ground cover to suppress weeds.
Chemical treatments disrupt this balance by harming both pests and beneficial insects, often leading to unintended consequences (like pests rebounding faster than their predators). By working with nature rather than against it, we create a thriving, resilient garden that sustains itself over time. Plus, planting species adapted to the specific growing conditions helps prevent problems before they start, reducing the need for intervention altogether.
What happens in the winter? Will my garden still look good?
Absolutely! A well-designed Permaculture Garden has four-season interest:Fall – Brilliant foliage and late-season flowers.Winter – Evergreens, sculptural branches, and seed heads for wildlife.Spring & Summer – Blooms, lush growth, and abundant harvests.
How long will it take for my garden to mature?
Most perennials hit their full size in about 3 years, but you’ll see growth right away. I can also source mature plants if you want a more instant impact.
What’s included in the design process?
My process ensures your garden is perfectly tailored to your space and lifestyle:
- Online questionnaire + site photos
- Onsite consultation & analysis
- Hand-drawn preliminary concept
- Approval & detailed plant/material selection
- Final installation (Optional)
- Seasonal maintenance visits (Optional)
Can I have a larger garden?
Absolutely! Pocket Permaculture is all about starting with a manageable, thoughtfully designed small space that can evolve over time. While I specialize in smaller garden designs, they are intentionally created with growth in mind. You can expand outward as your needs, space, and confidence grow. When you're ready to scale up, I can help guide the next steps!
how do I get started?
Ready to transform your space into a thriving, sustainable garden? Fill out the Garden Questionnaire to begin your journey!