There’s something deeply comforting about planting food that doesn’t ask you to start over every year. You plant something once, tend it well, and it returns — stronger, deeper rooted, more generous with each passing season. This is the quiet magic of a perennial food forest. At Shades of Green Permaculture, we often tell clients […]

At its core, a closed-loop ecosystem is about designing systems where resources are reused, regenerated, and kept in circulation—rather than discarded. When it comes to organic material, keeping it onsite is one of the most impactful ways to reduce waste, lower emissions, and build healthier environments. A closed-loop ecosystem mimics natural cycles. In nature, nothing […]

One of the reasons I love fall is because of the sumac growing wild all around the city. Every year when those cones turn deep crimson, we’re reminded just how much abundance lives quietly in our landscapes, parks, and backyards. Sumac tea is one of the simplest homegrown rituals you can try—no fancy tools, no […]

When most gardens retreat into dormancy during the colder months, some plants continue to shine, providing beauty, habitat, and ecological benefits. Among them, Edgeworthia, Beauty Berry, and Witchhazel stand out as some of our favorite winter natives. Each of these plants tells a unique story of resilience and offers a stunning reminder that winter landscapes […]

What is Slow Landscaping? At its core, slow landscaping is the antithesis of instant gratification. Instead of rushing to create a “finished” garden in a weekend or season, it invites you to engage with the land over time. This approach values long-term sustainability, natural processes, and thoughtful design choices that reflect the unique qualities of […]