DBG Permaculture Garden

DBG Permaculture Garden Earth Care
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Work with rather than against Nature. Zero waste �

20/07/2024

On the 11th of April 2024 I planted comfrey near a micro pond. Comfrey's dense foliage and roots can create a thriving habitat for various beneficial organisms, which can then help maintain a balanced ecosystem in and around the micro pond. Here are some benefits of using comfrey as a habitat near a micro pond:

1. *Insect habitat*:
Comfrey's flowers attract beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and hoverflies, which can help pollinate plants and control pest populations.

2. *Amphibian habitat*:
Comfrey's dense foliage and roots can provide shelter and breeding grounds for amphibians like frogs and toads, which can help control pest populations.

3. *Insect larvae habitat*:
Comfrey's roots and leaf litter can provide a habitat for insect larvae, like dragonflies and damselflies, which can help control mosquito and fly populations.

4. *Microbial habitat*:
Comfrey's roots and leaf litter can support beneficial microorganisms, which can help break down organic matter and create a nutrient-rich environment.

5. *Nutrient cycling*:
Comfrey's deep roots can help cycle nutrients from the subsoil to the surface, enriching the soil and supporting plant growth.

6. *Shade and shelter*:
Comfrey's foliage can provide shade and shelter for beneficial organisms, protecting them from extreme weather conditions.

7. *Food source*:
Comfrey's leaves and roots can serve as a food source for various beneficial organisms, like insects and microorganisms.

By planting comfrey near your micro pond, you can create a thriving habitat that supports beneficial organisms, promotes nutrient cycling, and maintains a balanced ecosystem. This synergy can lead to a healthier and more resilient environment for your plants and beneficial organisms to flourish!

20/07/2024

Exciting update from the DBG Permaculture Garden! I recently had the pleasure of taking a tour around the garden on April 4th and was thrilled to see our hard work paying off! Our Cabbage, Thyme, Celery, Spinach, and Beetroot are all growing wonderfully, thanks to the magic of our compost. It's amazing to see how our natural and nutrient-rich compost is supporting the health and growth of our plants. Can't wait to share more updates with you all as our garden continues to flourish!

20/07/2024

On the 13th of March 2024, Mr. Gabrial Mngoma demonstrated on how to install a Raised bed using the No-dig method which is a technique that avoids tilling or digging into the existing soil. Instead, you create a raised bed on top of the existing soil by adding layers of organic materials, such as:

1. Brown leaves or wood chips (to suppress weeds and create a barrier)
2. Compost or well-rotted manure (to add nutrients and improve soil structure)
3. Topsoil or potting mix (to create a growing medium)
4. Mulch which can be grass clippings, brown leaves or wood chips (to retain moisture and suppress weeds)

The benefits of the no-dig method include:

- Preserving soil structure and organisms
- Reducing soil erosion and compaction
- Improving soil fertility and health
- Minimizing physical labor and disturbance
- Creating a habitat for beneficial insects and microorganisms

To create a raised bed using the no-dig method:

1. Mark out the bed area with a boundary (e.g., wood, stone, or plastic edging)
2. Lay down a layer of brown leaves or wood chips
3. Add a layer of compost or well-rotted manure
4. Add a layer of topsoil or potting mix
5. Add Mulch which can be grass clippings, brown leaves or wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds
6. Plant your desired crops or flowers that will support each other.

Over time, the organic materials will break down into humus, and the raised bed will become a thriving ecosystem, teeming with life and nutrients.

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together to improve their growth, health, and productivity. This technique takes advantage of the different ways that plants interact with each other, such as:

1. Pest control: Some plants repel pests that can damage other plants.
2. Nutrient uptake: Different plants have varying nutrient requirements, and some plants can even provide nutrients to others.
3. Shading: Larger plants can provide shade for smaller plants, reducing soil temperature and moisture loss.
4. Support: Some plants can provide physical support for others, like peas and beans climbing up trellises.
5. Soil health: Certain plants, like legumes, fix nitrogen in the soil, benefiting other plants.

Some examples of companion planting include:

1. Tomatoes with basil: Basil repels pests that target tomatoes and adds flavor to tomato dishes.
2. Marigolds with carrots: Marigolds repel nematodes that can harm carrots.
3. Beans with corn and squash: The "Three Sisters" method, where beans provide nitrogen, corn provides support, and squash shades the soil.
4. Radishes with cucumbers: Radishes repel cucumber beetles and other pests.
5. Nasturtiums with cabbage: Nasturtiums repel aphids and whiteflies that target cabbage.

Companion planting can lead to:

- Increased crop yields
- Reduced pest and disease issues
- Improved soil health
- Enhanced biodiversity
- Aesthetically pleasing gardens

Keep in mind that some plants may compete or inhibit growth, so research and plan carefully to ensure harmonious plant pairings.

20/07/2024

zerowaste_hub In partnership with the Durban Botanic Gardens Trust, on the 7th of March 2024, the WZW team was working hard preparing the Permaculture Garden to grow nutritious fruit' herbs and vegetables using the rich compost made onsite at the Durban Botanic Gardens composting site.

20/07/2024

Welcome to DBG Permaculture Garden journey! I'm excited to share my experiences with you as I transform the Permaculture Garden into a beautiful oasis. From preparing the soil by weeding, to designing and planting fruits, herbs, flowers and vegetables, I'll be sharing every step of the way. Follow along for tips, tricks, and inspiration as I grow and learn alongside the Permaculture Garden. Let's get growing!"

Don't forget "Growing your own food it's like printing your own money"

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Durban Botanic Garden D16
Durban
4001

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09:00 - 15:00

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