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Strawberry Hill FarmPermaculture DesignStrawberry Hill FarmPermaculture Design
David Asbury has been an organic farmer for more than 20 years. Currently, he and his family own and operate FullCircle Farms located in Longmont, Colorado. Currently they farm close to 1,000 acres, which the business leasesfrom Boulder County Open Space. They grow over they grow over 100 different varieties of certified organicvegetables from asparagus to zucchini, selling the produce to regional organic and local food providers. Customersinclude Whole Foods, Boulder, Longmont and Cherry Creek Farmers Markets, Door to Door Organics, Mile HighOrganics, Eagle Rock and St. Vrain Public Schools, to name a few.
David is a strong advocate for local producers and a leader in the regional market for local food. He has strived tocreate real sustainability on his farm. His commitment to bring the entire input/output cycle of the farm process ontohis farm places him at the leading edge of local organic farmers. To him that means using runoff water from nearbymountains and using drip irrigation techniques, keeping the soil fertile by rotating crops, and sourcing supplies locallyto minimize fuel use.
In addition, the Asbury family owns and operates the Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch, also located in Longmont,Colorado. This property offers public event for children and families including property tours, parties and festivals,providing many educational opportunities on organic farming and locally produced food.
Strawberry Hill Farm is a five-acre property that David recently purchased and has been in neglect for several years..
Strawberry Hill FarmPermaculture DesignStrawberry Hill FarmPermaculture Design
Mission Statement
Design an organic commercial apple orchard that includes
a diversity of soil enriching plants, as well as create a
regenerative, lush and peaceful environment that inspires
and serves all of this eco-system's inhabitants—people
(owner, workers & visitors), wildlife, plant life and other
intangible elements.
• An organic orchard focusing on Honeycrisp apples
• Using a sprinkler system run from the ditch
• An experimental vineyard for personal use
• A shady space for workers to congregate, have lunch and relax
• Berries and landscaping for personal use
• A noise break to buffer sound and pollution from the highway
• Grass spaces for family and hanging out- a gravel area for machinery
• Landscaping in the front, preserving the parking spots
• No water in the basement/foundation of the house
• Good overflow prevention
• Rerouting the service road on the west side of the house(behind the west orchard), in front of the pond
• Keep water in pond and fish alive
• Not much maintenance required since he has a business to run
• To live in it for 5-10 years, eventually leave the place to his daughters
• Lighting: Need paths for work and personal use to outbuildings andother areas.
• Utility areas: recycle, compost and trash
• A communications plan to build awareness
Vision and Goals Supporting Elements:– Orchard
– Vineyard
– Pond: fish
– Existing trees
– Ditch water
– Energy (grid/solar/wind/etc)
– House
– Outbuildings
– Outdoor living space
– Noise break
– Grass yard
– Shade area in back for workers
– Gravel area for machinery parking
– Gazebo/circle landscaping
– Raspberries/blackberries/plums forpersonal use
– Birds/bats (incidental species)
– Bees? chickens?
Plant MaterialNo Coniferous Trees16 Mature Deciduous trees - 5 Radiant Crab Apple trees - 2 Plains Cottonwood Trees - 9 Narrow leaf Cottonwood Trees12 Immature Deciduous trees - 12 Fruit Trees: Plum, Cherry3 Mature Yellow Forsythias4 Mature Purple Lilacs
MammalsCoyoteRed FoxCottontail RabbitRaccoonStripped SkunkMeadow VoleWhite Footed MousePocket Gopher
BirdsRed Tailed HawkHorned LarkMourning DoveHouse Sparrows
Utilities AccessElectrical Power (East to West)Water (South to North)Sewer (South to North)Gas (South to North)Telephone (South to North)
BuildingsPrimary ResidenceOld Horse BarnEquipment BarnPump House
Site Observation
Site Analysis
Communications Tools& Opportunities2 Websites1 Facebook PageSeveral mentions on partnerwebsitesAccess to wide audiences,venues & events: organicfarmers & service providers(grocery stores, farmersmarkets); local schools &government agencies;organic food /local foodsconsumers; seasonal events
Known challenges• High water table• The five acre site slopes from north to south
and from east to west. The site has a fall of 20feet from the northern boundary to the southernboundary and a fall of 11 feet from the easternboundary to the western boundary.
Water Conditions
To landscapeTo berry patch
Gutters on all buildingsto direct water flow
To vineyard
Gutters on all buildingsto direct water flow
Soil Conditions from USDA Web Soil Survey
Prime ifirrigated
NotPrime
Prime ifirrigated
FarmValue
7.0
7.9
7.9
PHSurfaceArea
Very LimitedFrequentFlooding
Very LimitedFrequentFlooding
SlightPoorToo Clayey(.00)
.87Not limited1 - 3%Nunnclayloam
3
Very LimitedFrequentFlooding
LimitedSlightFairToo Clayey(.36)
.75SomewhatlimitedDepth tobedrock .46
3 - 9%Gaynorsilty clayloam
2
Very LimitedFrequentFlooding
LimitedSlightFairToo Clayey(.36)
.75SomewhatlimitedDepth tobedrock .46
1 - 3%Gaynorsilty clayloam
1
Fence3ft down
Fence2ft down
ErosionTopsoilOrganicMatter
Lawns andLandscaping
SlopeTypeMapArea
32
1
32
1
Soil Conditions continued
148
148
148
FrostFreeDays
Moderatelysuited
Moderatelysuited
Well suited
Suited forMechanicalPlanting
Somewhatlimited dueto slowwatermovement
Not Limited
Not Limited
Picnic Area
LowModeratelysuited
VeryLimited
SevereModerate:Soil Reaction(.50)
Moderatelysuited3
High:RockFragments
Well suitedSomewhatLimitedSlow water/Droughty
SevereModerate:Soil Reaction(.50)
Moderatelysuited2
High:RockFragments
Well suitedSomewhatLimitedSlow water/Droughty
SevereModerate:Soil Reaction(.50)
Moderatelysuited1
FirePotential
Suited forHandPlanting
ManureandCompostProcessing
SoilRuttingHazard
PropagatedTreeSeedlingMortality
HarvestEquipment
MapArea
32
1
32
1
32
1
32
1
ZonesZones
Zones and Sectors was the mostappropriate Permaculture designmethod to allow the group toefficiently integrate many complexproperty elements and project goalsinto a cohesive and integrated projectproposal.
This approach helped guide thegroup to harness focused knowledgeand apply it to each sector, while atthe same time bring specifiedresearch and expertise back to thegroup to inform the project as a wholeand seamlessly connect varied goalsand sectors into a broader integratedeco-system.
Zone 1- Home / OfficeOverview
The house on Strawberry Hill was built in 1975 and faceswest and slightly south. Goals are to create shaded outdoorliving areas, frame the mountain views, low maintenanceplantings and a grassy area for hanging out with family.Since the farm is located on HWY 66, creating a noise bufferis also important.
The office is located on the southeast side of the house, sopathways from the parking area to the front door for personaluse and to the office for business will be integrated.
There are many pallets of pavers and concrete block forconstruction of exterior walls and outdoor living areas.
Zone 1 - Home / OfficeSoil Structure and Water
The concept of a courtyard opening to the east is strong. This gives the residence a welcoming feel to each new day. The roomsthat enclose the courtyard are the master bedroom, kitchen, living room and the office. The east side of the home presentsnumerous problems.The courtyard terrain has been contoured such that all surface water drains back to the foundation.
There are no gutters along drip line of the roof. All rain water sloughs off of the roof, onto the courtyard, draining back to thefoundation of the residence.
We need to create positive flow away from the home by building up soil elevation and directing flow of rain. Also by addinggutters to direct where the water flow.
Zone 1 - HomeRain Chains
For Zone 1 drainage, new gutters willbe installed on the house and in lieu ofdownspouts, rain chains, at least atsome of the more visible locations, aresuggested for aesthetics and theirpeaceful qualities.
Rain chains add sound and directwater in a beautiful way. They aretraditionally used in the Japanese-styleof landscape design and also addvertical appeal. Discarded heavychain, old shower rings and even keyrings can be used to cost effectivelycreate rain chains.
Zone 1 - HomeRain GardenWater runs down the rain chain into arecycled half plastic barrel, found onsite, and overflows into diversionswales lined with some of thegravel/landscaping rock removedfrom the other parts of the yard,directing the water to rain gardens,trees and/or water feature.
Known challenges• Erosion: create wind breaks• Noise: rail, aircraft, highway, neighbors• Visual pollution - highway
Zone 1 - HomeWind and Noise Breaks
Known challenges• Erosion: create wind breaks• Noise: rail, aircraft, highway, neighbors• Visual pollution - highway
Zone 1-HomeStructure - Courtyard
Concrete walls would also help mitigate noise from the highway. We suggest creating an intimate courtyard encasing thefront of the house. A seven foot wall should be constructed beginning on the southwest corner of the house, after takinginto account an opening for the passage of visitors from the driveway/parking area to the front of house. This wall willcontinue west, wrapping around the yard and head north 10 or 20 feet before gradually tapering down to four feet inheight to frame the mountain views from the house and courtyard. This wall also creates thermal mass and two distinctmicro climates on either side of the wall. Walls for privacy and noise barrier are also reommended to the east.
Zone 1 - HomeStructure - Patio
Currently, the house is being updated and hasbeen under construction for several weeks.The front yard consists of dirt, some graveland small landscape rock.
We suggest setting all pavers in gravel, whichnot only allows for rainwater to seep into theground, but ground cover can be inter planted.The main pathway from the front door is madeof stamped concrete and ends at the maindrive, allowing access to the raspberriesand strawberries.
A water feature is suggested as it provides a soothingbackdrop, helps block the road noise and provideswater for pollinators. It could be the focal point of thecourtyard or located on the courtyard wall.
Zone 1 - HomeStructure - Patio
Since the roof overhangs extend 3 feet out, these western facingwindows do receive relief from the high summer sun and allow thelower winter sun to warm the interior.
A free standing pergola is recommended. Magnolia vines and hardykiwi are suggestions that would create shade and a beautiful outdoorseating area to enjoy the mountain views.
Resources on site can be used to construct a rustic looking pergola ora more formal version from sustainable harvested wood (FSCcertified) can be constructed. There is also the option of using a sunsail, but it would need to be removed seasonally as it is not meant tohold snow.
Hardy Kiwi
Zone 1 - HomeResource Repurpose
There great resources on site such as giant tree stumps with roots from very old elm trees thatwere removed, logs, metal water troughs and a large pile of pallets.
We suggest using the 2 metal troughs as planters and/or water features.
The plastic barrel halves mentioned previously are set in the ground and used as rainwatercollection basins with overflow directed toward plantings in the yard.
Those giant stumps could be interesting focal points in the courtyard, enticing David’s youngerrelatives to climb and play around. Tables, benches and chairs could also be created.
Zone 1 - HomeResource Reuse
We feel the highest use of the pallets is in creating patio furniture, like the sofa on wheelsor corner sofa that would be located under the pergola on the west facing wall of thehouse and/or the back patio . Pallet benches, chairs and tables could be created as well.
Zone 1 - HomeLow Maintenance PlantsFor the sunny lawn areas west and east of the house, we recommend Buffalo Grass. It is adense sod-forming grass that grows 4–6” tall. Some consider this native of the Great Plainsthe lawn of the future.
- Very hardy - requires no water once established- Water 1.5 inches/month to ensure it stays green instead of going dormant with the first freeze in September
- Great at capturing water due to massive root network - but does not like sitting in water for prolonged amount of time
- Great for erosion control on slopes- Very dense when well-established, establishes itself and spreads quickly, so weeds have tough time getting into turf
- As a native grass it’s a great plant for establishing a healthy bio-community and therefore good soil health
- Can mow once in spring or monthly for a more manicured look- Aesthetically pleasing - creating soft edges and goes great with native flowers
In maximizing edges, cold hardy, drought tolerant, agaves, yuccas and cactus are a fewideas of plantings on the hot south western wall that would add diversity and year roundvisual appeal.
Agave parryi and Neomexicana are recommended. Brakelight red yucca produces tallred blooms all summer long, attracting hummingbirds and beneficial insects for the entireseason, offering winter interest as well.
Prickly Pear and Claret cup cactus, with curlicue sage would be attractivecompanion plants.
Brakelight
Keeping low maintenance in mind, we focused on native and sensory gardening in thefront and back, using herbs, medicinals and a few edibles, with the rain gardensmentioned above. All plants are multifunctional. Most attract beneficial and predatoryinsects, providing redundancy to insectaries at other parts of the property, in addition tooverlapping recommendations with zones elsewhere, creating flow and a sense of place.
False Indigo – nitrogen fixing/bee attracting – needs a little shelter so just inside thecourtyard wall would be perfect. Astragalus – nigtrogen fixing/medicinal. Lupine –nitrogen fixer/mineral accumulator/bees. Also recommended are Penstemon,Coneflower, Goldenrod, Fox Sedge, Sunset Hyssop and Wild Quinine.
Zone 1 - HomeLow Maintenance Plants
False Indigo Wild \ Quinine Blue Flag Iris Goldenrod
Astragalus Sunset Hyssop Fox Sedge
Suggestions for Herb/ edible flower/ salad green garden:
Herbs: Chives/ Garlic Chives, French Tarragon, culinary Sage,Parsley likes full sunOther herbs ground covers: Thyme, Oregano, sweet woodruffand Marjoram grows fine in part sunEdible flowers: Nasturtiums, Pansy, Calendula and Rose allthrive with full sunOther edible flowers: lemon gem marigolds, Sunflowers,Dianthus, Day lilies, Hollyhocks, Borage, Geraniums, Lilacs, andSnapdragon Salad greens: Kale, spinach, lettuces, ArugulaTeaherbs: Mints and lemon balm
Other trellis plants/ potted plants combos:Trellis; Clematis, Roses, Kiwi vines, Beans, CucumbersPotted plants combos: All prefer full sunBasil, cherry or grape tomatoes, garlic chivesRose, chives, marigold/ calendulaBeans, Hot peppers, Sage and Rosemary need to be inside forthe winterCucumbers, marigold, parsleyTomatoes, with any of these herbs; Basil, bee balm, Borage,Calendula, Chives, Mint, Parsley, Sage
Shrub roses with chives can be planted next to sound barrierwalls, or trellis thrives with moderate attention in Coloradonames of varieties: Rugosa rose, Betty Boop, Bonica, SallyHolmes, Winnipeg parks
Zone 1 - HomeEdible Garden
Now: Install rain chains and/or downspouts. Earthworks for swales and raingarden construction.
Later spring: Bamboo, grass and raingarden plants. Build courtyard walland/or plant trees and shrubs.
Summer/Fall: Construct pergola andpatio, or could stick with just doing theabove for this year, starting small andscale outward. This would allow you tolive in the house for a full year andreally observe the site before makingfurther construction decisions.
Zone 1 - HomePhasing
Zone 1 - HomePlants - Bamboo
We suggest planting cold hardy bamboo along the north and slightly westperimeters of the courtyard, and north of the house, creating a sun trap andwindscreen from winds coming from the northwest and pond area. Since bamboowill also be planted at the pond, this will help integrate the pond with Zone 1 andcreate flow.
Running bamboo is recommended over the clumping variety. It can be easilycontrolled by simply kicking over the new shoot as it emerges in the spring, it’smost vulnerable time, and will not emerge in that spot again. Mulching to overwinteris sometimes recommended.
In addition to providing habitat, tender new shoots for eating, and virtually unlimitedbuilding materials, Phyllostachys bissetti has remained evergreen all but one winterof many at the Denver Zoo. The bamboo also serves as a privacy screen from theworker picnic area north of the house. Two stands could be planted, enticing one toenter and follow pathway to the pond.
Congesta
Phyllostachys bissett
Zone 2 - PondChallenges and Purpose
Wind dries out pondNo visual appealConnect pond to nearby landscapeAlgae and water are out of balance
Phosphorous and Nitrogen contribute to algae growth which couldbe a result of runoff from the farm which is fed from the ditch.
Zone 2 - PondNitrogen Cycle
Clean up algae: Algae are always present in a pond ecosystem. In a well balanced pond the nitrogen cycle naturallykeeps all elements including the algae population in check. A healthy balance of life in water depends on the nitrogencycle. Algae thrive on nitrates. The nitrogen cycle is as fundamental to aquatic life as photosynthesis is to plants.
How it works: fish eat, digest, produce waste which contains nitrogen in the form of ammonia. Beneficial nitrifying bacteria(colonize around surface areas) and enzymes break ammonia down into nitrite., which is beneficial to plants. Plants takeup the nitrate. Fish nibble on the greenery and return nitrogen to the water, completing the nitrogen cycle. Phosphorousand Nitrogen contribute to algae growth which could be a result of runoff from the farm which is fed from the ditch.
Barley straw - Barley straw placed in a pond prevents algae growth if introduced before algae appear in the spring.As the straw decomposes it releases substances that convert to hydrogen peroxide when exposed to oxygen and sunlight.This inhibits algae growth and evaporates quickly. It is safe for fish and plants - last up to 6 months.
Zone 2 - PondDiversity
Block wind with bamboo, shrubs and plants. Bamboo fence planted on west side will blockwind - is also an evergreen which facilitates nesting for birds in winter
Diversify edge and depth• fish require low spots to seek shelter from heat• planting edges provides bank stabilization, allows wildlife access for birds, butterflies,
snakes and frogs - use appropriate guilds mimicking nature as much as possible• include floating plants that will provide shade for fish and help cool water
Block wind with bamboo, shrubs and plants. Bamboo fence planted on west side will blockwind - is also an evergreen which facilitates nesting for birds in winter
Diversify edge Diversify edge Diversify and depth• fish require low spots to seek shelter from heat• planting edges provides bank stabilization, allows wildlife access for birds, butterflies,
snakes and frogs - use appropriate guilds mimicking nature as much as possible• include floating plants that will provide shade for fish and help cool water
Zone 2 - PondPlants
Plants contribute to balance. Submerged plants remove carbon dioxide and addoxygen to water aiding fish and aerobic bacteria. Both plants and algae usenitrates in the water for growth. Competition for nutrients which help control algae.
Typical pond plants are1. Floating - water lilies / add color and shade
2. Aquatic - those found around edges - add filtration to the pond andremove elements that would otherwise feed algae. Can be placed directlyinto gravel at edges
3. Submerged - oxygenators also, remove carbon dioxide and addoxygen aiding fish and aerobic bacteria. They use nutrients in the waterand are good hiding spots for fish
4.Marginals - those found around the edges - they add filtration to thepond and remove elemets that would otherwise feed algae. They can beplaced directly into gravel at edges.
Water Lillies
Eqyption Walking Onion
Zone 2 - PondPlants
Surrounding pond from the new road up to thebanks, - currently there appears to be sparse lowgrowing native grasses. In addition to this Lupine,columbine and clover could be added - alfalfa nearthe ditch where it spills into pond will help accumulateextra phosphorus.
Marginals around pond include - red willow- which can be copiced, blue elderberry, Jerusalemartichokes, currants, bayberry, yarrow, comfrey,sunflowers, arrowheads, native lotus, lavender.Bamboo will grow enough in 2-3 years to create awind bread and aid in not drying out the pond.
Lupine
Arrowhead Root Elderberry
Colorado Columbine
Zone 2Bees
Insectaries The wind will help draw bees fromthe 20 hives currently to the west of the pond.They can stop here on the way to pollinate theorchard and berries.
These plants include lavender, aster, yarrow,alfalfa, gloriosa daisy, sunflower and spearmint.
Golden Current Lavender Mint Sunflower
Zone 2 - PondWildlife
Include nesting and bat boxes over water - droppings providenutrients, attract insects and feed the fish. Silver haired bats arethe most distinctive Colorado species. Usually solitary, butsometimes form fairly large nursery colonies of 200 or morefemales and their young. Bats are insect feeders. They eat moths,beetles, gnats, mosquitoes, wasps and flies. They forage near theground and commonly fly around ponds and streams.
Trout are currently living in the pond. They will generally do wellover winter without much care. Rainbow trout typically live upto 5years. A safe PH balance is 6.8 - 7.8. Flow is necessary foroxygen exchange.
One means of creating flow is to place rocks at the north end of thepond, sloping the pond bottom down to the other end. When thesun heats the stones, it creates a higher water density and pusheswater and crates a circulation which floats ice and maintains an iceflow. Consider controlling outflow once issue of wind isaccomplished and pond is not drying out.
Include nesting and bat boxes over water - droppings providenutrients, attract insects and feed the fish. Silver haired bats arethe most distinctive Colorado species. Usually solitary, butsometimes form fairly large nursery colonies of 200 or morefemales and their young. Bats are insect feeders. They eat moths,beetles, gnats, mosquitoes, wasps and flies. They forage near theground and commonly fly around ponds and streams.
Zone 2 - PondRetreat
Transform pond into an appealing retreat for use
• shared with workers and connect to their shady placenear existing cottonwoods
• provide a footpath, seating and possibly lighting
Needs: clean pond that holds water, maintains healthy environment for fish andconnects with rest area for workers under cottonwoods
Yields: healthy pond retreat that includes bamboo fence to block wind, insectariesplants for bees, inviting bat and bird habitat inclusive of butterflies, snakes and flogs.
Needs: clean pond that holds water, maintains healthy environment for fish andconnects with rest area for workers under cottonwoods
Yields: healthy pond retreat that includes bamboo fence to block wind, insectariesplants for bees, inviting bat and bird habitat inclusive of butterflies, snakes and flogs.
Zone 3Berry Patch
Strawberries are a recommended understory forraspberries, and are desired by the client, so anynumber of cultivars can be tried. The ColoradoExtension Office suggests Quinalt and FortLaramie. We also suggest trying native alpine.
Other ground covers that add nitrogen and othernutrients to the soil include purple prairie clover,lupine, chives, borage, bird-foot trefoil andalfalfa. Intersperse comfrey and cut it down onceor twice a season for mulching. Add manure andwood chips seasonally to maintain the soil.
Our recommendations include planting a wind andsun break on the west and north sides of theraspberry bed, preferably dwarf evergreens(Japanese White, Alberta Spruce, Pi ) so theywill shield the berry patch from winter wind as wellas the late-afternoon summer sun. Evergreenscan also add a bit of acid to the soil. Native alders,dwarf apples or buffaloberries could be plantedalong the north end to soak up some of the waterthat comes from the north in the summer from thepond, and add to the windbreak as well as enrichthe soil.
Fall-bearing RedAutumn BlissSeptember RedJaclynAugust RedHeritageFall RedJoan-J
Fall-bearing YellowAnneFall GoldGoldie
Summer-bearing RedLathamBoyne Nova
Fall-bearing RedAutumn BlissSeptember RedJaclynAugust RedHeritageFall RedJoan-J
Fall-bearing YellowAnneFall GoldGoldie
Summer-bearing RedLathamBoyne Nova
Zone 3 - VineyardVineyard - Soil, Air, Sun
SunGrapes need full sunlight and hightemperatures to ripen, so we are planting onsouthern slopes, the south side of windbreaks,or the south sides of buildings.
AirAir circulation is vital to preventing disease.
SoilMost winemakers with experience inecologically grown grapes feel the qualityof the grape, and the resulting wine, is betterwhen soil management is ecologically based.
Choose deep, well-drained soils to avoidstanding water in the spring and encourageearly growth.
If you are growing grapevines to harvestgrapes, fertilizing is not really needed if your soilwas amended with organic matter at the time ofplanting.
If you are more interested in growing a leafyvine (as in a barrier), application of a highnitrogen fertilizer in April will result in lots ofleafy growth.
Space grapes 8ft apart (less vigorous6ft) Plant rows with 8 feet betweenthem; in even the most compactquarters, allow at least 3 feetbetween vines.
7 Trelis240 Plants
Zone 3 - VineyardTable and Wine Varieties
Table and Wine GrapesGrape growing involves choosing the right variety forthe specific region and using the proper viti-culturaltechniques and systems as well.
The cold hardy grapes will be chosen depending onthe clients taste and use preference.
In zones 5 to 7, American types (mostly V. labrusca)or some of the American-European hybrids (Frenchhybrids) are the superior choices.
Zone 3 - VineyardCover Crops
The more things that youhave growing in yourvineyard, the more real itbecomes in terms of anaturally functioningecosystem.
Agriculture is very unnatural;we will mimic what happensin natural systems. It’s bestto not leave bare soil to theelements. Always plantsomething in open soil.
Cover crops include avariety of grasses, legumesand mustards that protectthe soil from erosion, fixnitrogen into the soils andoffer a habitat for manybeneficial insects.
Cover crops enhance theland, encouraging healthiersoils for vineyards andgrapevines, as well ashigher quality, better-tastingwine.
Mimicking Natural Systems
• Protect Soil from Erosion• Water holding capacity and quality• Enhance biological diversity to the root zone• Provide habitat for beneficial insects• Provide firm footing for harvest• Improve air• Pleasing landscape
Mustard grown alongside grapevines help discourage soilborn nematodes that would feed on grapevine roots.
Field Peas Provides nitrogen
Vetches Fix nitrogen and speed growth,
Clovers add more modest amounts of nutrients,outcompete weeds, and attract pollinators.
Grassy cover crops tend to slow the growth of the vines.
Wild Flowers
Zone 3 - VineyardFlavor Guild
Many wines can be made from herbs and dried flowers.
Agrimony Rose petals
• Anise Hyssop is beneficial to grapes and a perennial herb.
• Plant option basil, beans, geraniums, oregano or blackberries.
• Chives with grapes help repel aphids.
• Plant your vines under Elm or Mulberry trees.
• Keep radishes and cabbage away from grapes.
Lemon Balm
Zone 3 - VineyardPest
Spidermites tend to be attracted to sunburned or stressed grapevines, and theyenjoy a good hot day (100+ °F/38 °C),
Our challenge is to grow our vines in the most balanced way possible andameliorate the stress of the very hot days. A balanced grapevine is one which ishealthy, but not overly vigorous, and thus is not as attractive to the spidermites.
Irrigation, pruning, fruit thinning, and cover crops are to be used as tools tobalance the vines. Cover crops are also great habitats that encourage thepresence of natural predators such as the Minute Pirate Bug.
Several generations of pirate bugs can hatch out in on summer or during asingle growing season.
Spidermite
Minute Pirate Bug
Spidermites tend to be attracted to sunburned or stressed grapevines, and theyenjoy a good hot day (100+ °F/38 °C),
Our challenge is to grow our vines in the most balanced way possible andameliorate the stress of the very hot days. A balanced grapevine is one which ishealthy, but not overly vigorous, and thus is not as attractive to the spidermites.
Irrigation, pruning, fruit thinning, and cover crops are to be used as tools tobalance the vines. Cover crops are also great habitats that encourage thepresence of natural predators such as the Minute Pirate Bug.
Several generations of pirate bugs can hatch out in on summer or during asingle growing season.
Zone 3 - VineyardWorkers
Insects and Bats:
To attract beneficial insect and bats a row purple coneflower and penstemon leadshummingbirds and beneficial insects such as lady beetles and lacewings right to thegrapevines.
Penstemon, evergreen, many colors, 2-3 ft., deer resistant, easy native plant, likes sunbut can tolerate part shade.
These are recommended to the west of the house to connect a pathway for the workers.
Pensteon
Purple coneflower
Insects and Bats:
To attract beneficial insect and bats a row purple coneflower and penstemon leadshummingbirds and beneficial insects such as lady beetles and lacewings right to thegrapevines.
Penstemon, evergreen, many colors, 2-3 ft., deer resistant, easy native plant, likes sunbut can tolerate part shade.
These are recommended to the west of the house to connect a pathway for the workers.
Zone 3 - VineyardWorkers - Flash Grazing
Benefits that can be gained are tremendous with the animal’s harvestof forage and the subsequent big savings in mowing labor and fertilizeralone justifying the initial setup expenditures.
GOATS
Grazing also interrupts disease cycles in similar ways. With our goats vacuuming down everyprematurely fallen leaf, spores of peach leaf curl, mildew, scab, brown rot, etc. don’t have achance to spread themselves. The digestive tracts of ruminants such as sheep and goats arefantastic compost systems, turning contagious litter into nutrient rich fertilizer pellets.
PIGMY SHEEPInstead of growers spending hundreds of man-hours toting around weed-eating machines orusing hundreds of gallons of industrial herbicides, these four-legged nibblers do the job ofseveral workers in less time, with less environmental damage, and often for significantlyless money.
GEESE
Aside from pygmy sheep, other options include geese, which specialize on grasses. Roughlyfour geese per acre are required for grass weed control in new vineyards. Any breed will work,but geese in a rapid growth stage will be more aggressive weeders. (Lanini, 2003)
Zone 3 - VineyardCost
Zone 4 - OrchardOverview
4 Varieties of Dwarf Apples: Honeycrisp1000 Trees. 750 will be rootstock onlyPlanting and/or Irrigation Pattern
Zone 4 - OrchardGrass
One of the largest competitors of fruit trees is grass because of its intense need for nutrients and water. Grassgrowing near the tree can delay fruiting and reduce trunk diameter even if nitrogen fixing plants are present.Some invasive grasses have root excretions which inhibit the growth of apple and pear trees, so it is especiallyimportant to keep these out of the root zone.
The Full Circle Farms orchard area already contains a number of the most invasive grasses in Coloradoincluding bluegrass, bentgrass, wheatgrass, fescue, orchard grass, brome and rye.
For the least amount of ongoing care, we suggest removing grass from around each tree out to its maximumdripline (since these are dwarf trees it should be 8 feet or so) and heavily planting a combination of alfalfa,purple prairie clover, lupine, nasturtium and chives. Maintenance would involve filling in any bare spots withnew plantings seasonally, adding new species if they are found to work better, mowing or harvesting as neededto reach the trees, and keeping the grass confined to the areas outside the trees' driplines.
Zone 4 - OrchardIrrigation
Zone 4 - OrchardSoil Building Plants
Understory:Strawberry will out-compete grass and thrives in the shade andmoisture of an orchardGlobe Artichoke will provide a nice soil building mulch for the appletree and the other members of the guild.Daffodils planted in a ring around the tree suppress grass and deterworms, coddling moth and dear. They also provide early spring pollenfor wild pollinators and yield cut flowers for sale.Comfrey shades roots of the tree and competes with grasses.Comfrey also provides mulch material, accumulates calcium in thesoil and can be harvested for multiple medicinal uses.Horseradish spreads by surface roots and supresses invasivegrasses. It has also been known to be effective against Monilia inapple trees. To make the popular condiment, just grate the bulbousroots and add vinegar.Tulips bloom early in the Spring, before other perennials haveemerged, and just in time to attract pollinators to those little appleblossoms. They also provide some often-needed farmer morale onthose chilly March mornings.Sunchokes around the dripline suppress gras via both chemical andphysical means and are edible tubers. TheyChives are extremely pest resistant and are anti fungal andinsecticidal. Flowers attract wasps and other predatory beneficials.They help prevent apple scab and deters aphids, and are of couresedible and medicinal. When left to re-seed, they will provide a grassygroundcover.Nasturtium are edible and nutritious. They deter plant-eating bugs,attract predatory insects, suppress grass, prefer poor conditions andadd calcium to the soil.
Vine Layer:Reliance grapeHardy Kiwi
Mid-story:Nanking cherryElderberriesGoji berryCurrantsRaspberries
Nitrogen Fixers:Shrubs:Siberian pea shrub is a wonderful nitrogen fixer, grows in poor soil and ishighly controllable in Colorado. It is, however, not a native and isconsidered invasive in some contexts.False Indigo (native, shrub) is drought tolerant, long-lived, deer-resistantand not inclined to colonize weaker neighbors.Buffaloberry (shrub) is a native nitrogen-fixing shrub with edible berries.
Climbers:Annual Peas or Beans planted against the sunny side of the trunk willclimb into the branches and provide summer-long blooms and veggies, aswell as fixing nitrogen in the soil below.
Groundcovers:Purple Prairie Clover (groundcover) is a native nitrogen fixer and healerof degraded soils. It also brings in the pollinators early and keeps themcoming back. Tolerates foot traffic and mowing.Lupine (native) also accumulates phosphorus in the soil, aerates the soilwith its long taproot, tolerates poor soil and attracts pollinators andbeneficial insects. It is also drought tolerant and prolific enough to handlesome traffic.Alfalfa breaks up clay soil, accumulates nitrogen, iron, magnesium,phosphorus and potassium and is drought and disease tolerant. It issomewhat invasive but can be harvested as a cash crop or for trade as afeed stock. Needs cutting, but tolerates heavy traffic
A truly functional, self-sustaining orchard also has room for manyother useful plants that support each other. Here are Colorado-proven,non-invasive examples for nitrogen fixing ground covers and shrubs,mid-story berry plants and interspersed mineral accumulators.
Zone 4 - OrchardApple Guilds
We suggest a wide variety of nutrientaccumulators such as comfrey,horseradish, buffaloberries, pea shrubs,prairie clover, false indigo, lupine, beans,peas and alfalfa.
If keeping access to the trees formachinery is not a problem, we wouldrecommend interplanting both shrubs andperennial vegetation to build the soil andprovide other crops as well as erradicatethe grass in between the trees.
Since a variety of plants is best fordiversity, pest control and ecologicalresilliance, plant raspberries,buffaloberries, Nanking cherries,elderberries, Goji berries, gooseberries,and currants at regular intervals betweenthe apple trees. Also plant soil-buildingand grass-killing perennials such ascomfrey, globe artichoke, horseradish,strawberries, lavender, sage, fennel andother herbs.
We suggest a wide variety of nutrientaccumulators such as comfrey,horseradish, buffaloberries, pea shrubs,prairie clover, false indigo, lupine, beans,peas and alfalfa.
If keeping access to the trees formachinery is not a problem, we wouldrecommend interplanting both shrubs andperennial vegetation to build the soil andprovide other crops as well as erradicatethe grass in between the trees.
Since a variety of plants is best fordiversity, pest control and ecologicalresilliance, plant raspberries,buffaloberries, Nanking cherries,elderberries, Goji berries, gooseberries,and currants at regular intervals betweenthe apple trees. Also plant soil-buildingand grass-killing perennials such ascomfrey, globe artichoke, horseradish,strawberries, lavender, sage, fennel andother herbs.
Zone 4 - OrchardAlfalfa - 2nd Crop
Alfalfa requires a deep, well-drained, loamy soil witha pH between 6.5 and 7.5, free of hardpans andshallow bedrock, to accommodate the plant’s longtaproot that can penetrate to 20 feet. Alfalfaresponds well to phosphorus and potassium fertility,but no nitrogen is required, since alfalfa (being alegume) fixes its own nitrogen. It also uses three tofive pounds of boron per acre per year. Adequatelime, phosphorus, and potassium levels should beestablished prior to planting, if possible. Basefertilizer application rates on soil-test results, cropneeds, and the nutrient content of the material beingapplied. After the crop is established, only surfaceapplications will be possible. Wet soils can causeroot heaving during winter and cause moreproblems with root diseases than well-drained soils.Animal manure can provide both phosphorus andpotassium economically.
Alfalfa requires a deep, well-drained, loamy soil witha pH between 6.5 and 7.5, free of hardpans andshallow bedrock, to accommodate the plant’s longtaproot that can penetrate to 20 feet. Alfalfaresponds well to phosphorus and potassium fertility,but no nitrogen is required, since alfalfa (being alegume) fixes its own nitrogen. It also uses three tofive pounds of boron per acre per year. Adequatelime, phosphorus, and potassium levels should beestablished prior to planting, if possible. Basefertilizer application rates on soil-test results, cropneeds, and the nutrient content of the material beingapplied. After the crop is established, only surfaceapplications will be possible. Wet soils can causeroot heaving during winter and cause moreproblems with root diseases than well-drained soils.Animal manure can provide both phosphorus andpotassium economically.
Zone 4 - OrchardDo’s and Don’ts
Do’sFor an even more ambitious plan, add a vining layer of Reliance or other grape, Hardy kiwi, or annual pole beans andpeas to climb up the apple trees, shade their trunks from the sun and provide another crop. Beans and peas will fixnitrogen and appreciate the drip irrigation. Grapes and kiwis will compete for resources a bit, so add these only if thegroundcover is thriving, the soil is healthy and the trees are large enough to accommodate climbers.
Don’tsStay away from invasive mints, yarrow, chicory, spurge, loosestrive, chamomile, vetch, St. John's wort, cinquefoil, tansyand clovers other than purple prairie. Continue the underplanting ground covers mentioned above throughout theorchard where paths are necessary.
Notes: don't plant anything that will need to be dug up or divided inside of the dripline of the tree, as digging coulddamage the tree roots, make sure you have access to harvest the fruit at the right season, spend money on irrigationand access instead of compost and soil building and fertilizing
Do’sFor an even more ambitious plan, add a vining layer of Reliance or other grape, Hardy kiwi, or annual pole beans andpeas to climb up the apple trees, shade their trunks from the sun and provide another crop. Beans and peas will fixnitrogen and appreciate the drip irrigation. Grapes and kiwis will compete for resources a bit, so add these only if thegroundcover is thriving, the soil is healthy and the trees are large enough to accommodate climbers.
Zone 4 - OrchardProblems to Overcome
Fireblight:Unfortunately, dwarf rootstock is extremely vulnerable to fireblight so care must be taken in choosing both the cultivarand the rootstock and then following up with good maintenance. Here are our suggestions.
1. Choose resistant varieties (Red & Golden Delicious, Haralson, McIntosh, Jonafree, Enterprise, Honeycrisp)on resistant rootstocks
2. Prune small branches annually in mid-winter, avoid large cuts3. Use nitrogen fixing plants, not nitrogen fertilizer4. Remove all blighted twigs 10" below infection, promptly destroy cuttings5. Sterilize tools between cuts if tree is not fully dormant
Zone 4 - OrchardProblems to Overcome
Coddling moth:The coddling moth's worms hatch and live in the apple, coming in viathe blossom end, but the moths live on the ground. Earwigs and otherpredatory insects eat them.
daffodils, onions, garlic, nasturtiums, mint and chives.For more grass and bug suppression plus an early dose of pollinator attraction, plant a ring of daffodils,tulips or other early spring bulbs around the dripline. These will have flowered and died back by harvest time,and can be picked and sold as another crop. Sunchokes, onions or garlic are also excellent choices, as theyare both edible and powerful bug deterrents, but they come with additional work of harvesting and will be intheir prime when the apple trees need to be accessed.
Zone 4 - OrchardTrap Crops
Zone 4 -OrchardPollinators
There are four to seven pollination groups in apples, depending on climate:
Group A – Early flowering, May 1 to 3 in England (Gravenstein, Red Astrachan) Group B – May 4 to 7 (Idared, McIntosh) Group C – Mid-season flowering, May 8 to 11 (Granny Smith, Cox's Orange Pippin) Group D – Mid/late season flowering, May 12 to 15 (Golden Delicious, Calville blanc d'hiver) Group E – Late flowering, May 16 to 18 (Braeburn, Reinette d'Orléans) Group F – May 19 to 23 (Suntan) Group H – May 24 to 28 (Court-Pendu Gris)
One cultivar can be pollinated by a compatible cultivar from the same group or close (A with A, or A with B, but not A with C or D).[34]
Varieties are sometimes classed as to the day of peak bloom in the average 30 day blossom period,with pollinizers selected from varieties within a 6 day overlap period.
It is our recommendation to consider under-planting nitrogen fixersand other soil building plants as well as early blooming flowers toattract pollinators so they are onsite when the apples bloom.
It is our recommendation to consider under-planting nitrogen fixersand other soil building plants as well as early blooming flowers toattract pollinators so they are onsite when the apples bloom.
Zone 4 - OrchardBudget
Zone 4Orchard Budget
Employee relaxing area• Utilize wildlife proof trash containers since the area is within a wildlife corridor.
• Use waterproof due to slow water flow
Zone 5Waste | Wildlife Corridor
Zone 5 - Workers Area
Zone 5 - Workers AreaCost
Sink and irrigation for young trees:
- Sink: free- $65+- #7 of 31: Metal Kline water trough for passive water sink base for workers.- Rocks, small medium, and large sized for french trench- Cloth (burlap sacks, misc bits of cloth, etc) on siteTotal costs: Free-$65
Seating and dining tables for Outdoor Rest Area for Workers:- Paint/wood sealant and application supplies: $12-$28- Shade sail: $83-$300+- #9, 10, 12, 13 and 16 of 31: For recycled worker seating and dining area.- 13:Tree stump seatingTotal costs: $95-$328
Additional needs:-Food producing trees and other plants: $26- $54+Suggestions:
● Western Sand Cherry● American Plum● Barberry● Beetberry● Saskatoon● Comfrey● Nepalese Raspberries
- Outdoor lighting: $12-$24+Total costs: $38- $78+
Outdoor Rest Area for Workers Total: $143- $467+
Sink and irrigation for young trees:
- Sink: free- $65+- #7 of 31of 31of : Metal Kline water trough for passive water sink base for workers.: Metal Kline water trough for passive water sink base for workers.- Rocks, small medium, and large sized for french trench- Cloth (burlap sacks, misc bits of cloth, etc) on site- Cloth (burlap sacks, misc bits of cloth, etc) on site- Cloth (burlap sacks, misc bits ofTotal costs: Free-$65
Seating and dining tables for Outdoor Rest Area for Workers:- Paint/wood sealant and application supplies: $12-$28- Shade sail: $83-$300+- #9, 10, 12, 13 and 16 of 31of 31of : For recycled worker seating and dining area.- 13:Tree stump seatingTotal costs: $95-$328
Additional needs:-Food producing trees and other plants: $26- $54+Suggestions:
● Western Sand Cherry● American Plum● Barberry● Beetberry● Saskatoon● Comfrey● Nepalese Raspberries
- Outdoor lighting: $12-$24+Total costs: $38- $78+
Outdoor Rest Area for Workers Total: $143- $467+
All Zones - Compost
Worm Compost for grape and apple waste
All ZonesCommunications Plan
Think of communications as an ecology—an integrated system connectingand benefitting all functions and elements of a project, including client’sproducts and services, as well as the community as a whole!
Don’t be intimidated—You can use Permaculture principles to create acommunications plan, and you can integrate into existing tools andresources. Here’s how it could for the Strawberry Farm Project:
Communications Planning Follows Permaculture Principles:
1.Observe. In addition to observing the physical location of your projectand client’s goals, research, review and analyze all existingcommunications materials; current opportunities to reacj key audiences;and the effectiveness of these resources for engaging partners, targetaudiences and the community. For example, through observation welearned that:
• Full Circle Farm owner and project client is a credible andrespected source of information on organic farming practiceswithin the organic farming/slow foods community. Alreadyestablished spokesperson and practices could be translated tolarger picture Permaculture verbiage.
• Client has multiple electronic communication outlets includingtwo websites and a Facebook page, but each website is linkedto a different part of his business—Rocky Mountain PumpkinRanch (public) & Full Circle Farms (B-to-B)—and notconnected to each other.
• Client has great presence on all of his partners website but infois not linked back to home websites or Facebook page.
• Great potential for reaching wide audiences at venues andevents such as organic farmers and onsite through serviceproviders (grocery stores, farmers markets);
• Diverse existing audiences—local schools and governmentagencies; organic food and local foods consumers; localcommunity at seasonal events such as pumpkin farm;Farmer’s Markets and popular grocery stores.
Creating a Buzz forStrawberry Hill Farm’sOrganic Apples & OrchardPermaculture Practices
All ZonesCommunications Plan
2. Connect. Create a plan that connects communications efforts to yourorganization’s/project’s mission and goals; communications tools, outlets and events; andpartners communications efforts. For example:
• Client could create an umbrella website—or a guild of all business websites—to includeinformation on Full Circle Farms, Rocky Mountain Pumpkin Ranch and Strawberry HillRanch’s new organic apple orchard. Main website should support organizational mission,goals and communication efforts, as well as connect varied audiences and partnersincluding: local schools and government agencies; organic food and local foodsconsumers; local community at seasonal events such as pumpkin farm.
• Website should link to Facebook and Twitter accounts.• In addition, all mentions of client’s businesses on partner websites should include a link
back to the client’s main website.• Communications messaging should re-package existing verbiage that could be considered
as a Permaculture practice which is currently under the angle of “organic farming”practices.
3. Catch and store energy and materials. Capture the attention of audiences andconsumers and inspire them to learn more about your products and services, as well asPermaculture principles, teaching them how it can benefit them , their community and theenvironment.
• Develop attention grabbing key messaging, stories, and create visually interestingbrochures, leave-behinds, posters, etc. that can be displayed at Farmers Markets, grocerystores where product s are displayed such as Whole Foods, events at the Rocky MountainPumpkin Ranch, etc.
• For example: Organic is to Permaculture what Apples are to Fruit—Learn more about howFull Circle Farms implemented holistic, regenerative approach to growing apples andcultivation our new Strawberry Hill Farm property in a way that goes beyond sustainabilityand works towards replenishing our environment, one eco-system at a time.
• Use key messaging to talk to your clients, but also remember to employ the bestconversational style per medium—different voice for brochure versus giving a talk.
4. Each element performs multiple functions. Each element in your communications plancan provide many functions. Most of the work in on the front end. Once a plan is in place,material, such as key messages can be recycled for all multiple materials and efforts.
• Client’s plan will help him achieve multiple communications goals and reach diverseaudiences (i.e. one brochure can be displayed at Farmer’s Markets, at grocery stores, etc).
• One plan can help client build awareness for products and services by differentiating hisproduct and practices; and it can also share the surplus by teaching a wider audienceabout Permaculture and its benefits to the environment; as well as helps inspire holisticdesigners to broaden services and include communications planning into a PermacultureDesign Project.
Organic is to Permaculturewhat Apples are to Fruit:
Learn more about how FullCircle Farms implemented aholistic, regenerative approachto cultivation and growingorganic apples and our newStrawberry Hill Farm propertyin a way that goes beyondsustainability and workstowards replenishing ourenvironment—one eco-system at a time.
All ZonesCommunications Plan 10. Use biological and renewable resources.
Client should optimize electronic media which has a limited carbon footprint.Use recycled paper when print materials are needed. Put “Display Copy” on brochure to holdclients/customers/visitors onsite while reading materials.Remember conversation is a completely renewable and regenerative resource—talk to your client’s,consumer’s, etc. Remember to tell an interesting story, a time-tested way of human interaction andretention of knowledge.
11. Turn problems into solutions. Start with you client interview—what does your clientidentify as an issue? Is your client resistant to some proposals for implementingPermaculture solutions? Remember two monologues do not make a dialogue—aconversation is a two-way street. Reframe information to show benefits in a way the clientcan relate to, which will help the client to then communication project benefits to his or herlike-minded audiences.
Client may prefer to stick to common language used by Organic farmers/consumers, perhaps replace“Permaculture” with “holistic ecological design practices regenerating for the environment”.
12. Get a yield. Track your results.
Client could engage Facebook users then track comments on announcement of project/harvest.Track website visits and clicks-throughs to homepage link announcing project/harvest.Track media coverage.Measure increase in sales/revenues for all business streams (Full Circle Farms products, RockyMountain Pumpkin Ranch events) after announcement—did it increase?Survey partners to see if efforts are building greater awareness for brand.
13. The biggest limit to abundance is lack of creativity. Don’t confine your thinking forhow to promote your product or service.
Brainstorm with client less obvious news hook that could include key messaging (i.e.interesting person story from one of his workers or client’s personal interests outsidefarming such as travel and community service).
14. Mistakes are tools for learning. If people aren’t interested in your message, revampyour news hook, tell your story from another angle. Engage in conversation and bridge yourstory with their interests by finding common ground.
