I have been learning about permaculture principles and have used some of them in my small yard.

Specifically, last year, I didn’t do anything to the yard (no watering, no/little mowing etc) and made some notes what happened. I expected the grass to die, weeds to take over, maybe have some issues with the tulip patch or rose bushes. To my surprise, everything survived including the grass.

This year, I have added a few raised garden beds to the concrete pad I have. I’ve planted a mixture of herbs, blackberries, strawberries, tomatoes, and pollinator plants/flowers. As with last year, this year includes notes on what is growing well, what isn’t, the effects of my water schedule and so on.

I have a few experiments going on. I am using Marigolds as a trap plant. Also, I am seeing the effects of different shade/sun on various herbs like basil. Finally, I am letting my cilantro and other herbs go to seed (yum coriander).

Next wet season, I would like to try manipulating water. I’d like to having gutters running along my fence strategically watering my blackberry plants below. Additionally, I would like to ramp up water collection and explore drip irrigation.

I’d also like to use explore using grass clippings as mulching material (maybe use a weed whacker rather than mower to ‘harvest’ the grass).

Finally, I’d like to plant an additional fruit/nut tree for yield and vines to enhance privacy.

For me it’s mostly about the garden, I have around 1000m2 of garden which is for a big part orchard/food forest. I try to supply my own nuts and fruit and supplement my vegetable requirements. There are chickens as well, to get rid of any food waste and provide eggs. Everything is being done in an organic no tilling way without any pesticides.

I’m not nearly self-sufficient, but for me, that is not a realistic goal. Reduction of consumerism is a pretty good start, and as a bonus I try to keep my land as insect/bird friendly as possible.