These are a few of my Sempervivum tectorum (hen and chicks). They make me happy because they have so many unique details in their individual plant clusters. They are extremely hardy and have a strong drought resistance. The container that they are in was made from old heat treated pallet wood from one of my decommissioned compost bins (non treated wood). And because my focus is on compost and food, the plump leaves of this succulent are edible raw. Go easy at first to avoid a upset stomach.
These are a few of my Sempervivum tectorum (hen and chicks). They make me happy because they have so many unique details in their individual plant clusters. They are extremely hardy and have a strong drought resistance. The container that they are in was made from old heat treated pallet wood from one of my decommissioned compost bins (non treated wood). And because my focus is on compost and food, the plump leaves of this succulent are edible raw. Go easy at first to avoid a upset stomach.
Keyhole Gardening: a Drought-Tolerant, Compost-Style, Sustainable Concept
The key hole garden concept is quite simple. A circular planting bed (with a “keyhole” to allow access to the center) is constructed with bricks, stone, gabion-style walls, or even aluminum siding. In the center of the keyhole is a circular compost bin in which kitchen scraps and household “gray water” are poured.
Layers of soil inside the circular walls slope slightly outward to encourage positive drainage away from the central compost bin. As kitchen and garden waste breaks down and gray water is added, a natural “compost tea” soaks into the surrounding soil providing nutrients to plants growing within the circular wall. More information and instructions at the link.
A desert style landscape with a permeable lawn substitute and olives. Project Name: “Palm Springs Style. Landscape Design by Paul Hendershot Design, Inc. paulhendershotdesign.com
Courtyard trees are aligned in a way for style, but more importantly for shade during the hot summers in Ojai. We also have pea gravel as an excellent lawn alternative. It’s easy to walk on barefoot and pets find it comfortable. Landscape Design by Paul Hendershot Design, Inc. paulhendershotdesign.com
A driveway and outdoor living room, as seen from the privacy hedges surrounding the property. Project Name: “White Flower House.” Landscape Design by Paul Hendershot Design, Inc. paulhendershotdesign.com
