Our Diverse Community of Wonderous Beings

Permaculture is the art and science of creating community ecosystems in which plants and animals interact, forming a sustainable and profitable environment. We seek to value all species present on Wild Thyme Farm, a philosophy reflected by our gardens and grounds. The challenge is to find the spot in the ecosystem in which an invasive plant can cohabitate with others.

I often find myself in the gardens of Wild Thyme Farm, looking at a plant in such a thriving situation, and wondering if the plant is encouraging the community as a whole. Plants have different functions in a community. Some plants provide food, shade, groundcover, nutrients, beneficial insects, or soil aeration. (Link to species index, functions of plants, wonderful weeds, weed recipes).

The strength of community aids us in selecting our animals for the farm. Joining us in our ecosystem are four cows, one piggy, twenty chickens, four guinea fowl, and a variety of wild animals in the forest. In the past, we have also had goats and ducks cohabitate the land with us. (Link to animals and their desirable characteristics).

As a designer of this community of many species, I seek to provide food for all of its members. Plants are selected and planted in close proximity to the beings most likely to consume them. Plants which function as dynamic accumulators for the soil are grown throughout the farm. This provides natural fertilizer in the gardens, or food for the soil which feeds the plants. (Link to food for animals and plants, recipes for your plants to eat).

Our community here on Wild Thyme Farm seeks to have many of the characteristics that make the more familiar community known as a neighborhood flourish. Proximity is important for all members of the community as well as an ample supply of food and water. Companionship is encouraged through all of the kingdoms represented here on the farm. Shelter and microclimates of weather are given consideration to provide for everyone's personal needs. We value each species' uniqueness in characteristics and contribution as this diversity provides for all of our needs.

An ecological system of this sort is quite productive economically. Many of the by-products of growing so many different species can provide financial sustenance for humans. Presently, items that have been sold from our farm include: edible flowers, flower essences, eggs, herbal products, vegetables, cut flowers, herbs, native and cultivated seeds, plants, sustainably harvested lumber, and flower essences. Other items that could be marketed from by-products that exist in our landscape include: baskets, animals, hand crafted furniture, planters, cordage, compost, and dried flowers and arrangements. (Link to value added products and recipes).

Check out Herb’n Wisdom’s website at www.herbnwisdom.com. Marisha is available to present workshops on a variety of topics including: ethnobotany, herbalism, flower essences, permaculture, edible landscape design, and organic gardening among others. Contact Marisha by email: EarthWiz76@aol.com.