Facilitators-Handbook-For-Permaculture

Workshop Module 2: Natural Patterns and Permaculture Design 63

Presentation : Patterns in nature

Method : Group brainstorm

Tools : Images of patterns in nature and naturally shaped gardens

References : PC Book MOD 2 – Natural Patterns and Permaculture Design

Objective : Participants understand the value of working with natural patterns

Our world is made up of patterns. Every aspect of the earth, from the smallest animal

to the largest mountain, contains patterns.

When creating designs for your land, if you work with natural shapes you will achieve

more productive results for the least amount of time and labor. This is because you will

have much more edge for the same amount of land or water, which means more trees

and plants can be planted around the edges.

Ask the participants to consider the following questions:

• Can you identify any straight lines in nature?


• Are there any straight or square parts in our bodies?


• Which is stronger, a curved wall or a straight wall?

See PC Book MOD 2 – Natural Patterns and Permaculture Design for more

details, and for ideas of natural shapes of productive garden and pond designs.

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