Permaculture on a Micro Scale
Hot Block Walls turned to a Cool Permaculture Oasis
This design has it all. Rainwater harvesting from the roof runs to deep basins that collect and store 1500 gallons of rainwater into the ground. This feeds the Palo Verde and supports the lemon and lime trees. There is another, smaller basin on the opposite side collecting water for the Desert Willow and Apple tree. Grape Vines and Lady Banks roses line the east and west block walls, with flowering native shrubs along the hot south wall. As plants mature, these walls will disappear and so will some of that heat!
The raised bed gardens are central to the garden for beauty and access. The archway is a gorgeous statement and will grow tomatoes, cucumbers, and squashes in upcoming seasons. The patio was extended to create a dining and entertaining space. Composting in the raised beds through vermicompost (worm) bins saves space, nourishes the soil, and makes it easy to maintain. Everything is supported with a drip irrigation system so even the pots will have their own reliable watering plan. Foolproof for the even the busiest people.