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In gardening terms, permaculture is a way of working with nature to decrease inputs (including gardening effort) whilst maximizing outputs (including enjoyment). One of the basic tools in the permaculture design process is layers, also known as stacking.

In a natural forest, many plants occupy different ecological niches. Plants grow at different heights, making use of every scrap of light available and hence maximizing production. Permaculture makes use of the layers concept to try and replicate this process in the garden.

The result is a forest garden, with plants assigned to one of seven specific layers. It may not be possible to accommodate all the layers in every garden, but the principle can still be applied.

The Canopy layer is made up of large trees. If you're planning a garden from scratch then you will be able to plant large fruit or nut trees, but in an existing garden then any tree can fulfill this role trees are wonderful habitats for wildlife. In a small garden it may not be possible to have a large tree at all.

The Low Tree layer is made up of smaller trees dwarf fruit trees would fit into this category. Underneath these trees would be the Shrub layer, with fruit bushes. Next comes the Herbaceous level, with plants that die back in winter. Comfrey (a favorite plant for permaculturalists) would live here, as would leafy vegetables and herbs.

The Rhizosphere is the root zone, and root vegetable live here. Above them is the Soil Surface layer, where ground-hugging plants make their home. Most of the plants in this layer would be considered ground cover plants. Strawberries make a productive and effective ground cover where they are allowed to spread naturally.

The final layer is the Vertical layer, composed of climbers and vines.

The key point to remember with permaculture is that it is not a system to be followed slavishly. The idea is to observe your environment and think carefully about what will work in your garden before you start. Perennial plants will be productive for many years with very little maintenance required, so it pays to do your research and planning.

Learn more about this author, Emma Cooper.
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