//04: Forest Gardens – Wild heaven on earth

Forest Garden +++ A new way to steward the land+++ If you ask any member of “Co-living by the forest” what their personal understanding of paradise is, chances are that at least one or two will refer to the “forest garden” on the space. What is that, you might wonder? A concept from permaculture, it describes a space that is designed in such a way that the space is mostly self-contained, so that it grows and sustains itself on its own, using various layers of the land to interact with each other and be supportive in their own ecosystem. Coincidentally, it is also the place on the grounds where you can find the most wild berries, seemingly endless lush patches of mint, and even an inviting hammock by the riverside. No wonder it brings visions of paradise to mind. Very well, you might say, but what makes a “forest garden” a “forest garden”?

A forest garden is a concept that bridges the characteristics of forest and garden. The English term is usually “edible forest garden”, which means that we bring the “edible” part into the forest, or expand the garden into the size of a small forest. The key is in designing and working with this space as a multilayered system of plants and trees that support each other and can grow well together. This way, we are looking for many symbiotic areas which can create a thriving system supporting life. In creating a forest garden, we will sooner or later realize that we are co-creators with Mother Nature, who orchestrates everything into place. Through diligent observation and understanding of local ecosystems, we can create a niche that can nurture us with the abundance of life.

In our case, we have been planting various fruit trees, berries, fruit-bearing shrubs, herbs, bushes bearing nuts, and more, that can be a source of food. Combined with plants that support their growth (nitrogen-fixers, mineral accumulators...) in designing, we usually try to ensure a proper amount of light for every single element. Another important aspect of the forest garden is also the social one, as it offers space for various activities. Whether it is a place for leisure and rest, allows us a polygon for educational purposes, or simply lets us play in the oasis that nature can be – once the space is established to some extent, it actually offers a multifaceted space for various living beings (humans, animals, insects...). The process of establishing a forest garden is almost like a lifelong process, through which designing, planting, maintaining and harvesting offer us an opportunity to attune ourselves with the wisdom and beauty of nature.

+++ Assignment 04 +++ Observation

In your local area, try to find a little space where different things are growing together. If you look at the tree as a single element of your focus, what else is around it? Try and see the pattern of its growth, the soil underneath, neighbouring plants, sun and shade areas. These are just examples you can observe. Find some characteristics of this area. How does it feel to be in this place? What kind of connection can you sense towards nature here? Would you like to change something or leave everything as it is?

With this in mind, you can play with the idea of designing a specific element or place around you, whether a whole landscape or a small section.