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Before putting a single spade in the ground or planting a solitary tree, every resilient permaculture design begins with observation. Site and sector analysis is the foundational exercise that transforms a piece of land from a blank canvas into an interconnected, energy-efficient ecosystem.

Recently, I read a World War II ration recipe that included grated carrot in a fruit cake. This led me to delve further into the history of vegetables and all manner of uses. I learnt of sweet potato brownies, beetroot chocolate cake and various vegetable breads. I do love reading, so I continued, which led me to buy a beautiful volume called Vegetables: A Biography by Evelyn Bloch-Dano.

What comes to your mind when you think of winter gardening?

Perhaps lush brassicas such as cabbage, kale, broccoli, and even Brussels sprouts growing vigorously and abundantly? Well, if you have an organic vegetable patch full of thriving winter crops right now, you are one of the lucky ones—and you deserve my envy!

Recently, while viewing a post, I was overcome with excitement as I spotted a Central Coast publication… a poster of detailed fungi photos of our local area. Immediately, I contacted the author, John Dani and was treated to the most wonderful conversation.

Every plot of land, whether a sweeping rural acreage or a modest suburban backyard, is a patchwork of distinct atmospheric zones called microclimates. In these small pockets, factors like temperature, humidity, wind exposure, and sunlight deviate from the regional baseline. 

In March, during our holidays in China, we visited the famous irrigation system at Dujiangyan in Sichuan province.
After more than 2 millennia, it still functions as the primary water source for a modern metropolis of 20 million people.

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I continued my research on ancient grains and breads this month and came across a recipe for Bappir/ Bapier. It dates from 2402 BC, Lagash. It is a 5000-year-old Sumerian bread recipe using barley grain.

At the Permaculture Festival of Workshops gathering, I was fortunate to be asked to give a talk on fabrics, stitching, and mending. For many years, I have saved tiny scraps of fabric that others may find less than useful.

What goes through your mind when you spot some unfamiliar weeds in your garden? Do you have an instinct to eradicate, or do you take a breath and wonder where these all fit and what useful outcome you may be able to create?