Garden Definitions

Organic Gardening

Organic growing is a system which uses natural (organic) materials to nourish the soil which in turn feeds the plants. Working with natural systems rather than trying to dominate them, organic growing does NOT use pesticides, herbicides or artificial fertilisers.  Organic growing systems seek to enhance biological diversity, add to long-term soil fertility, conserve and recycle nutrients, promote efficient use of water, and promote environmental care. 

Permaculture 

The concept of permaculture was first developed by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren in Tasmania in the 1970s.  Permaculture (permanent agriculture) is the conscious design and maintenance of agriculturally productive ecosystems which have the diversity, stability, and resilience of natural ecosystems. It is the harmonious integration of landscape and people to provide food, energy, shelter, and other material and non-material needs in a sustainable way.  The philosophy behind Permaculture is one of working with, rather than against, nature.

 

References

 

The Canberra Organic Growers Society

The Permaculture Research Institute

 

Wondering when to plant in Canberra?  See the Canberra Organic Growers planting guides.