The Econ Farm, Permaculture Example, Spring 2012

This entry will take you on a tour of the Econ Farm which is applying sustainable practices and organic gardening techniques. As the Econ Farm strives toward self-sufficiency, its owner, Tia Meer, is using practices such as worm composting, rain barrels, chickens, organic gardening, and more to accomplish her goals. This is the essence of permaculture which means the development of agricultural ecosystems intended to be sustainable and self-sufficient.

 

The Econ Farm is five acres of Florida Land located on the Econlockhatchee River, between UCF and Christmas. The Econ Farm was purchased in 2003 by Tia Meer, and is used for the educational classes on topics such as organic gardening, permaculture, and sustainability.

Tia Meer has a wealth of knowledge on the proper care of plants and how to use the land in a way that benefits nature as well as the grower. In this century it is becoming increasingly important to learn how to live off the land as our ancestors did. Tia shares her knowledge through teaching classes and coaching others on sustainable living and organic gardening. She also has her own business http://www.homegrowndelightsllc.com/ where she assists others on starting a successful gardens and also offers a variety of plants, produce, and products for organic gardening.

Econ Farm: http://www.simplelivinginstitute.org/econfarm.html 

 

These Seed trays and flats are useful when starting the spring garden at the Econ Farm. Starting from seed takes more effort, but it saves money in the long run and gives you the flexibility to try different varieties of plants.

A rain barrel is a great contribution to any garden. A spigot at the end makes the barrel more handy. They even can give you a chance to exercise creativity such as painting the barrel. This rain barrel has lilies growing in the top which help with keeping down the amount of mosquitoes. This also makes a nice environment for the mosquito eating fish which are part of this small ecosystem.

Butterflies are always welcome pollinators to have in the garden. This Tiger Swallowtail is feeding on an orange blossom.

 

This Purple Flag Iris was captured just at the peak of its beauty. It reminds me of this upcoming Easter holiday. I am looking forward to celebrating this Easter as we remember the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.