terra
We are stewards. The land around us, the earth that is so complex we still don’t understand its intricacies; this is ours to enjoy, nurture and protect. As we connect with nature through hiking, gardening, and strolls on the beach, we grow our appreciation and understanding of it. The “fighter jet” sound an eagle makes when it’s at high speed, the beauty of a fern unfurling, the silly antics of a squirrel. If we create ways to intentionally “see” and experience the world around us, I believe we can and will preserve this valuable resource we’ve been given!
When we first moved onto our property, it was overtaken by invasive Himalayan blackberries, English ivy and many other invasive and noxious plants. I’m dedicated to improving the health of this land by removing the weeds that have smothered and strangled the plants that would naturally be growing. In their place, I’m adding plants that benefit the soil by providing nutrients and prevent erosion, and are a source of forage, cover and nesting places for wildlife. I’ve also established a forest garden, which provides food for our family, community and wildlife while using only natural, organic methods.
Small things can make a big difference if we’re all participating. Reducing our dependence on single-use plastics, reusing and repairing items for as long as possible, buying used over new…there are so many things we can do to limit the negative impact humans have on the earth. I won’t get it right all the time, but let’s try to do our best…together.
recent posts
Restoring a native woodland garden
Fall 2022, we began the arduous task of reclaiming a second phase of our property in Western Washington from the invasive Himalayan blackberries. (Our first phase was an edible forest…
Where to Take Unwanted “Stuff” in Kitsap County
Some neighbors and I were recently talking about where to donate items we no longer need/want and how helpful it would be to have a resource guide of places that…
Rhubarb: Going to Seed
Ever wonder what would happen if you let your rhubarb go to seed? Someone gifted me a good-sized chunk of rhubarb a couple of years ago (thanks, Steve!), and I…
Permaculture Forest Garden: Years Two & Three
I originally started this post after the second year of my permaculture forest garden in Western Washington (US Zone 8b), as my original intent was to share an update report…
To Fence or Not to Fence
Part of permaculture is working with nature, finding balance and sharing with the wildlife around us. When I first started my forest garden, I had visions of a lovely relationship…
Review: Subpod Vermicomposting System
Sadly, the Subpod company is going out of business as of 2024 in the United States. The products are still great but will become increasingly harder to find. And I’m…
The Field Guide Challenge
This spring I was sitting in the garden with my permaculture consultant Mark, chatting about all things food forest. As we were absorbing the sights, sounds and smells around us,…
Thoughtful Growing: Resources for Maritime PNW
As an avid lifelong learner, I’m continuously seeking out and absorbing new (to me) information. Having previously grown in rows of raised beds in the southeast, I have a lot…
Permaculture forest garden – First Year
In October 2019, I began work reclaiming a moderately steep portion of my property from the invasive Himalayan blackberries and thistles with the plan of transforming it into a forest…