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Permaculture - A Designers' Manual | Chapter 12: Humid Cool to Cold Climates

Updated: 1 day ago

Discover the unique characteristics and strategies of permaculture design for humid cool to cold climates.

Permaculture - A Designers' Manual | Chapter 12: Humid Cool to Cold Climates

In the last article of our “Manual” series, we explored the unique challenges and opportunities of drylands. If you didn't get a chance to read it, you can catch up here.

Today, we transition from the arid landscapes to the chilly terrains of the humid cool to cold climates.

In case you missed all the posts so far and would like to start the “Manual” series right from the beginning, the very first post is here.

Climate and Soils in Humid Cool to Cold Climates - Permaculture

Climate Characteristics

Humid cool to cold climates are generally characterized by cool summers and cold winters, with notable precipitation distributed throughout the year. These climates can range from moderately cool coastal areas to colder inland regions experiencing extended periods of freezing temperatures. The distinct temperature and rainfall variations present unique challenges and opportunities in permaculture design.

Soils in Humid Cool to Cold Climates

Soils in humid cool to cold climates can differ significantly, ranging from fertile loams to thin, rocky compositions. The cooler temperatures slow down decomposition rates, leading to an accumulation of organic matter that forms a nutrient-rich humus layer – a crucial factor to consider for effective plant species selection and soil fertility management.

House Design and Water Management in Humid Cool to Cold Climates - Permaculture

House Design in Humid Cool to Cold Climates

Energy conservation becomes a top priority in colder climates. Hence, house design in these regions must focus on insulation and heat retention. Employing design strategies such as orienting buildings to maximize solar gain and using thermal mass can result in substantial savings on heating costs. Furthermore, the house can act as a thermal anchor in the landscape, fostering beneficial microclimates for plant growth.

Water Management in Humid Cool to Cold Climates

Managing water effectively is another key consideration in these climates. Water collection systems must be designed to cope with potentially high volumes of rainfall, while also preventing problems associated with waterlogging or frost. Employing strategies such as swales and keyline as well as dams for water storage can ensure water is used and stored effectively.

Permaculture Design Strategies for Humid Cool to Cold Climates

Permaculture Design Strategies for Humid Cool to Cold Climates

  • Season Extension Techniques: Greenhouses can extend the growing season, allowing for the cultivation of a more diverse range of plants and providing a year-round food source.

  • Plant and Animal Selection: Choosing plant and animal species that are adapted to the local climate is crucial. Hardy perennials and livestock breeds that thrive in cold weather will promote a more productive and resilient system.

  • Microclimate Manipulation: The creation of warmer microclimates within the broader landscape using windbreaks, sun traps, and the thermal mass of buildings allows for the cultivation of a wider range of plant species.

The humid cool to cold climates, with their unique characteristics, can yield abundant returns when managed with the right strategies. In the next post of our “Manual” series, we'll delve into aquaculture systems. We hope you join us for this fascinating exploration in our next post!

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