We’re getting close to the end of our journey through the principles of permaculture. Now, let’s talk about the eleventh principle: "Use Edges and Value the Marginal." This principle emphasizes the importance of the spaces where different systems meet and recognizing the potential in the often-overlooked areas.
Think about the edge of a forest where it meets a meadow. This area, known as an ecotone, is typically more diverse and productive than either the forest or the meadow alone. It’s a place where different species from both environments interact, creating a rich tapestry of life. In permaculture, we aim to utilize these edges and marginal spaces to enhance biodiversity and productivity.
Why are edges so valuable? Well, they often represent areas of transition and interaction. These transitions can create unique microclimates and habitats that support a wide range of species. For example, the edge of a pond supports aquatic plants and animals, while also providing habitat for land-based species. By designing with edges in mind, we can create more abundant and diverse ecosystems.
Let’s start with some practical examples in the garden. One way to use edges is by creating garden beds with wavy or irregular shapes instead of straight lines. These undulating edges increase the amount of edge habitat, providing more opportunities for different plants and beneficial insects to thrive. Similarly, planting a hedgerow or border of diverse species around your garden can create a rich edge that supports wildlife and enhances your garden’s productivity.
Another example is integrating water features. A pond with a natural, irregular shoreline has more edge than a perfectly round pond. This increased edge provides more habitat for a variety of plants and animals, supporting greater biodiversity. You can also create edges within the pond itself by adding rocks, logs, and plants, creating microhabitats that attract different species.
Edges are also valuable in larger landscape designs. For instance, in agroforestry systems, planting rows of trees along the edges of fields can create windbreaks, improve soil health, and provide habitat for wildlife. These tree lines, or shelterbelts, enhance the overall productivity and resilience of the farming system.
Valuing the marginal means looking at the often-overlooked spaces and recognizing their potential. Marginal areas might include the edges of your property, neglected corners of your garden, or even urban spaces like vacant lots and alleyways. These areas often hold untapped potential for growing food, creating habitat, or providing other ecological services.
Let’s talk about urban permaculture. Cities are full of marginal spaces that can be transformed into productive areas. Rooftops, balconies, and even small patches of land between buildings can be used for gardening, creating green spaces, and supporting biodiversity. Community gardens, green roofs, and vertical gardens are great examples of how urban marginal spaces can be utilized effectively.
In social contexts, valuing the marginal means recognizing the contributions and potential of individuals and groups who might be overlooked. This could involve integrating diverse perspectives into community projects, supporting marginalized groups, and fostering inclusive environments. By valuing the contributions of all members of the community, we create richer, more resilient social systems.
One fascinating aspect of this principle is the concept of “microclimates.” Edges often create unique microclimates that can be used to our advantage. For example, the south-facing side of a wall might be warmer and receive more sunlight, making it an ideal spot for growing heat-loving plants. By recognizing and utilizing these microclimates, we can create more diverse and productive growing environments.
Another example is in food forests. In a food forest, edges between different layers—such as the canopy, understory, shrub layer, and ground cover—create diverse habitats that support a wide range of species. By designing these edges thoughtfully, we can maximize the productivity and resilience of the food forest.
Valuing edges and the marginal also encourages us to think creatively about resource use. Marginal spaces can be used for composting, water collection, or creating habitat for beneficial insects and wildlife. For instance, a narrow strip of land along a fence might be perfect for a pollinator garden, providing food and habitat for bees and butterflies.
In permaculture, we also consider temporal edges—times of transition that can be harnessed for productivity. For example, the transition from winter to spring is a time when many plants begin to grow rapidly. By planting early crops, you can take advantage of this seasonal edge to get a head start on the growing season.
Let’s not forget the social and economic dimensions of this principle. Valuing the marginal can involve supporting small, local businesses and community initiatives that might be overlooked by larger systems. These grassroots efforts often bring innovation and resilience to communities, contributing to a more diverse and robust local economy.
Principle 11 is about recognizing the unique value of transitional and overlooked spaces. It’s about seeing the potential in the edges and margins and using them to create more diverse, productive, and resilient systems. By incorporating this principle into our designs, we enhance the richness and sustainability of our environments.
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