Permablitz #168 in Ashburton
The cloudy Sunday 26 July 2015 saw a happy and eager crowd getting ready to transform host Alex and Nicole’s backyard. With delay due to new baby, the family of four had big plans for their backyard.
The plan for the day was introduced by designer Nikki and included:
- 3 wicking beds
- 3 espalier fruit trees
- compost bay from pallets
- 4 garden bed areas that were to be planted to fruit trees and perennials
- wire mesh panel for annual climbers
- a pathway
- a strawberry tower
- worm feeders
Everybody introduced themselves and we got to know everybody’s favourite fruit or vegetable.
After a quick warm-up session, teams went immediately to weeding and removing some excess ornamental plants that didn’t make it into the final design.
Progress on the wicking beds stalled as new builder’s plastic needed to be organized but progress on the garden bed areas was rapid. Oxalis plants were repurposed as scraps in no time and sheet mulching could begin. The espalier wire went in to provide support for the three dwarf apple trees.
When the wicking beds were lined and protected, Scoria was added and overflow pipes were tested. The overflow was directed to the newly planted espalier trees for added benefit to the trees.
Silently, the compost bay came into existence in the public reserve behind the house near the old Outer circle railway line. Time for morning tea with delicious cakes and fruit.
Just before lunchtime we could finish one wicking bed, constantly under supervision of a curious Magpie. The other wicking beds were finished in no time as were the garden bed near the future chook shed and for the strawberry tower.
The lunchbreak was enjoyed thoroughly by everyone and vegetarian and omnivore diets were exceptionally catered for.
After lunchbreak it was workshop time. We learned about the purpose and logic behind wicking beds, how to espalier a tree (it’s not as difficult as it sounds), bees in a garden design, Alex’ weather station and Bokashi bins.
95% of the design got implemented that day, the spirit was great and everbody had lots of fun. Even the moody Melbourne weather withheld the rain for most of the day. What a great day!
