The permaculture garden is one of the most visited places on our farm.  This is not just a place to weed and collect produce.  It really is a destination  – a place to pause, take in the beauty of God’s creation, look for surprises and appreciate His bounty.  I think the garden is missing a bench so that we’ll be able to sit and crochet or visit, or reflect, and learn -because the garden always has something to teach us.

Meduseld Permaculture garden – August 3, 2013

Here are pictures of the garden now.  We have pulled some of the earlier plants to make room for the new rotation of fall plants.  You’ll see some bare areas where cucumbers and squash have been removed and beets and turnips will be planted (and parsnips, if I can ever remember to order them…)

I love volunteers in the garden – the plants that re-sow themselves.   Every year there are varieties of plants that I do not replant because I know they will take care of it themselves.  This year’s volunteers include dill, arugula, tomatoes, and the best surprise of all, Holy Basil.  I had planted this basil last year and did not remember to buy seeds this year.  Fortunately, I did not have to! 

Holy Basil growing among the marigolds

Nearby, the garden is showing a thriving plant relationship.  Here you can see broccoli and Basil planted closely and both are doing well with no signs of insect problems. 

Broccoli and Basil – best friends?

Cabbages forming good heads. This one will make excellent sauerkraut.

We have had some setbacks – the horses and cows were out recently and one of them leaned over the fence and ate most of the corn plants.  And, there are still some weak spots in the garden, signs of recovering from the excess decomposition of  mulch layers as recommended in Gaia’s Garden.  I hope by next spring the last mulch will be fully broken down, making the nutrients available to the plants.  I am still learning and the garden is the best teacher!