Kim says that by setting aside the traditional ‘rules’ of gardening, harnessing the benefits of the natural world, working with local conditions and what you like to grow and eat, you can escape the worst of the climate's destructive forces and save money at the same time… The Climate Change Resilient Vegetable Garden explains in accessible terms the importance of not being afraid to set aside the rules of traditional gardening, and nurture your yard in the way that works best for you.
Kim says there are five key factors that need to be taken into account when creating a climate-resilient garden from scratch. They are:
Look to permaculture and go organic, avoiding pesticides and chemicals and welcoming in as much biodiversity as possible.
Feed the earth, whatever your soil type, mulching with well-rotted homemade compost, enriching it naturally, employing a no dig (or no-till) regime to boost the presence of soil heroes - the worms, invertebrates, microbes and mycorrhizal fungi that create natural resilience.
Grow perennial crops such as fruit bushes and herbs because by doing so you will disturb the soil less than with annuals.
Create space for wildlife, with longer grass, wildflower areas, places where wild things can thrive.'
Finally, Kim recommends using natural resources to make leaf mold, wood chippings and compost, recycling and repurposing everything from plastic bottles to plant pots.
~ Ruth Hayes