Frequently Asked Questions

Permaculture is a design system for creating sustainable, productive landscapes that mimic natural ecosystems. Instead of fighting nature with chemicals, tilling, and constant maintenance, permaculture works with natural patterns to create food-producing systems that become easier to maintain over time while building soil health and supporting biodiversity.

Not at all! Permaculture principles work at any scale - from apartment balconies to multi-acre farms. Some of the most productive systems we've seen are in small urban yards where every square foot is thoughtfully designed.

After your Discovery Session, most design packages are completed within 2-4 weeks depending on complexity and my current project load. I'll give you a specific timeline when we meet.

Both! Your design package gives you everything you need to implement on your own timeline. But if you want hands-on help, coaching, or guidance along the way, I offer hourly implementation support and coaching sessions.

Perfect - that's exactly how permaculture design works! Your design package includes a multi-year implementation plan that breaks the project into manageable phases. Start with the most important elements (often water management and perennial plantings) and build from there as budget and time allow.

Not as a regular service, but I do offer coaching sessions where I can visit your site periodically to help troubleshoot, answer questions, and guide seasonal tasks as your system matures.

I serve the Duncan to Nanaimo corridor on Vancouver Island, including Cowichan Valley, Ladysmith, and surrounding areas. Contact me to confirm service to your specific location.

It depends on your property size, sun exposure, and how much of the space you dedicate to food production - but it's usually more than people expect! A well-designed small yard (5,000-10,000 sq ft) can produce hundreds of pounds of food annually once established. Larger properties can grow a significant portion of a family's yearly food needs.

A 2-3 hour on-site visit where I assess your property, discuss your goals, and provide immediate recommendations you can act on. You'll receive a written summary and initial design concepts. If you move forward with a full design package, the $175 is credited toward that investment.

My primary focus is residential edible landscaping - helping homeowners and families grow their own food. If you're interested in market farming design, feel free to reach out and we can discuss whether it's a good fit.

Absolutely! In fact, that's preferred. Good permaculture design integrates existing mature plants, structures, and systems. We'll assess what's working, what can be improved, and how to build around what you already have.

Your design is based on proven permaculture principles and plants suited to Vancouver Island's climate. That said, gardening always involves some trial and adjustment - that's why I offer coaching sessions to help troubleshoot and adapt as your system matures. I'm invested in your long-term success.