Growing with nature

Permaculture

What is Permaculture?

Permaculture is a design approach and philosophy that seeks to create regenerative and self-sufficient ecosystems, using principles from ecology, environmental science, and the wisdom of our ancestors. It emphasizes the creation of food-producing systems, energy efficiency, and waste reduction, as well as the development of healthy communities.

Permaculture seeks to mimic the patterns and relationships found in natural ecosystems, and aims to create mutually beneficial relationships between the components of a system. The term “permaculture” is a combination of “permanent” and “agriculture.”

A more harmonious world.

Permaculture, like a seed planted in the soil, begins with a dream of a more harmonious world. It grows, branching out and weaving together the principles of sustainability, community, and self-sufficiency into a tapestry of vibrant life.

It invites us to step into a future filled with hope and possibility, where the rhythm of life beats in harmony with nature.

See the work in motion.

Our YouTube channel offers informative and inspiring content for people exploring permaculture. Subscribe for updates and to join a community of people learning to create positive change.

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Colorful flowers grown at the Riley Retreat arranged in a vase

Flower Farm

Amidst the chaos of 2020, Rachael and Joshua embarked on a new adventure as new parents and first-time flower farmers. With limited resources, they created five flourishing flower beds using composted horse bedding, hay, and coffee grounds. They planted zinnias, cosmos, sunflowers, and wildflowers.

Despite initial doubts, the harvest was bountiful, and the joy of giving away as many blooms as they sold reignited Rachael’s passion for flower farming. The organic and regenerative farm uses chemical-free, holistic methods for flower and food production.

Flower Farm FAQ

How do you start seeds?

We start all of our seeds using soil blocks made of organic soil and topped with light vermiculite. We place them on warming germination mats with a humidity dome. We research whether the seeds need light to germinate or stratification. Afterwards, they spend 16 hours a day under T8 grow lights until they are ready to be hardened off. Generally, 80–90% of our seeds sprout.

Do you provide flowers for weddings?

We do not offer wedding flower arrangement services. A florist would be better suited to that work. We focus on growing flowers in their healthiest conditions according to their natural timing, so our bouquets depend on what is in season.

Yellow roses, white zinnias, and purple flowers growing at the farm
White sunflower in the flower field
Multicolored zinnias growing at the farm
Yellow roses in a floral arrangement

Want to care for the Earth with us?

Explore Work Trade

Work Trade

Join us for an immersive hands-on learning experience in perennial care. As a work-trade participant, you’ll learn about growing and maintaining edible perennials by working alongside experienced instructors.

From planning and designing plantings to harvesting, you’ll be involved in all aspects of perennial care:

  • Seeding, planting, and soil blocking
  • Weeding and mulching
  • Diagnosing and treating diseases and pests
  • Pruning and shaping

This program involves hard, physical work: bending, stooping, carrying heavy loads, and working in all types of weather. If you have physical limitations, please reach out so we can discuss whether it is a good fit.

Joshua Riley guiding a group during an outdoor class

Apply for Work Trade

Learn through hands-on practice and guided instruction. Fill out the form to apply.

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