Choosing between a rain garden and a bioswale comes down to scale, site and goals. A rain garden is a shallow planted basin that holds and filters roof or yard runoff. A bioswale is a linear channel meant to move and treat larger flows. This guide walks through design, planting and upkeep so you can pick the right fit. Table Of Contents Define rain garden vs bioswale: quick contrast Design and site selection for a permaculture approach Planting, soil and ecology Construction and maintenance steps Benefits, costs and policy incentives Key differences summarized for choosing between them in a permaculture plan Useful resources Conclusion Related Posts Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Key Takeaways Rain gardens and bioswales both capture stormwater, but bioswales take larger flows and move water gently. Pick site slope, soil and drainage first; use native plants and build soil for lasting results. Start small, layer plantings (trees, shrubs, perennials, groundcovers) and mulch — up...

  Mediterranean permaculture guilds help you design multi-layered plant communities that save water, build soil and attract pollinators.  This guide walks you step by step through site analysis, plant choices and simple soil & water techniques so you can create a thriving, low-maintenance garden for hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Table Of Contents Mediterranean permaculture guilds Site analysis and design Plant selection and companion strategies Soil and water management Implementation steps and maintenance Quick tools and references Conclusion Related Posts Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Key Takeaways Guilds are small, multi-layer plant communities around a main tree that save water, build soil and attract pollinators — great for Mediterranean climates. Start with a simple site check: note sun, slope, wind, soil and water flow; map microclimates and where water gathers Choose plant roles: nitrogen fixers, dynamic accumulators, groundcovers, pollinator flowers ...

  Building a food forest in a humid subtropical climate is about working with heat, humidity and seasonal rain rather than against them.  This guide walks you through site assessment, plant choices and simple soil and water strategies so you can design a resilient, productive system. Practical tips let you start small and expand with confidence. Table Of Contents Climate and site assessment for humid subtropical food forests Canopy trees to prioritize (fruit and timber) Mid‑storey shrubs and support plants Groundcovers, roots and vines Design and maintenance notes Tools, templates and useful resources Practical planting templates and quick recipes Monitoring and adaptive management Quick checklist before planting day Conclusion Related Posts Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Key Takeaways Start with a site check: sun exposure, shade, frost risk, basic soil feel and water flow — simple tests save time later. Use layered plantings: canopy trees, smaller trees, shrubs, groundcove...

  Building a passive solar greenhouse is one of the smartest steps you can take to extend your growing season and reduce energy use.  This guide walks you through site assessment, thermal storage, glazing choices and simple ventilation so you can plan a resilient, low-energy structure. I’ll show tools, examples and clear steps to get started. Table Of Contents Site and microclimate assessment Design principles & thermal storage Insulation, glazing and ventilation Heating strategies and compost heat Planting, layout and permaculture guilds Quick tool list to use Conclusion Related Posts Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Key Takeaways Start by mapping site and microclimate — sun path, wind, frost pockets, water flow and soil type guide every choice. Use passive solar: orient glazing to the sun, add thermal mass like water barrels, stone or bermed earth, and insulate the north side. Choose right glazing and vents — twin-wall polycarbonate, tight seals, and smart ventilation k...