Hugelkultur in Monteverde
We cannot talk about sustainability without including the fundamental theme of agriculture, growing that which we eat. With this in mind and with a great amount of effort form our students; the Monteverde Institute is testing different vegetable-garden types in our campus. So far we have an example of HugelKulture and a Keyhole garden in progress. Both of these projects follow sustainable guidelines and have their bases on Permaculture practices.
Here you can find a "how to" guideline built by one of our interns, Peter Wells.
Hugelkultur in Monteverde
A Hugelkultur is raised bed that mimics forest decomposition. This technique is native to Austria where is has been used for hundreds for years, for more information on this system, research the work of Sepp Holzer and his Permaculture farm in the Alps. With good construction and adequate precipitation, a hugelkultur is a self sustaining system. With occasional maintenance, it requires no additional fertilizer, chemicals, irrigation, or tillage. Here is how to make one.
Sample of a Hugelkulture Garden
Start with a couple of large, rotting trees or logs as a base.
2 Pile smaller deadwood and branches on top. Let sit in rain or soak to help retain moisture.
3 Cover with compost (manure is a plus).
3.5 Cover the mound in good soil and finally, leaves or straw.
The mound can be any length and as high as two meters
This system 3 major functions:
It is a water reserve in times of drought.
It is a beneficial harbor for microbial, fungal, insect, and animal life.
It is a nutrient mine for the plants that grow on it and drastically improves soil health.
Peter Wells, 2013. Instituto Monteverde.