DESIGNING SWALES - Geoff Lawton visits The Weedy Garden - Swales Part Two.

Summary

In this educational video, the host invites Jeff to demonstrate the creation of a swale in a garden setting. They discuss the purpose of swales in water management and nutrient distribution, emphasizing their importance in permaculture. The step-by-step process of marking, digging, and planning the swale is shown, including tips for ensuring water retention and tree placement. The video also touches on the ecological benefits of swales, such as supporting frog habitats, and ends with a call to support the host's Patreon for more in-depth content.

Takeaways

• 🌳 Building a swale helps in managing water flow, spreading, soaking, and sharing nutrients across the landscape.
• 🚜 Jeff demonstrates the hands-on process of creating a swale, emphasizing the importance of getting it right the first time.
• 🪓 The best footpath is located right down the middle of the ridge, ensuring even water distribution.
• 🌿 Swales are essential for tree growth systems, as they enhance moisture retention and nutrient distribution.
• 🌱 Acacia trees serve as green manure in the landscape, fertilizing the soil but dying when their job is done.
• 🌾 The back cut of a swale should be stable, with a gentle slope to prevent erosion and falling apart.
• 🍃 Planning space is important for where the water will sit and how it will spread across the garden.
• 🚶‍♂️ Swales should be designed for practical use, such as making sure wheelbarrows can easily navigate them.
• 🌧️ Overflow points should be carefully planned to ensure no erosion and proper water distribution to other swales.
• 🐸 Shallow swales create habitats for frogs, adding ecological benefits to the garden.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of building a swale in the garden as described in the script?

The main purpose of building a swale is to interrupt the water flow running off the property, spread it, and soak it into the soil to share nutrients throughout the system. This helps in growing food and retaining moisture in the landscape.

What is the significance of the ridgeline in the context of swale construction?

The ridgeline is significant because it is the next most stable to contour tracks, and it helps in directing the water flow evenly from the footpath, which is essential for the swale's effectiveness in water and nutrient distribution.

Why is it important to avoid disturbing the ground at the overflow point of the swale?

It is important to avoid disturbing the ground at the overflow point to maintain a stable and erosion-free area. Keeping the grass mowed like a lawn ensures a nice even stream of water without causing any erosion.

What is the role of the a-frame in the process of building a swale?

The a-frame is used for surveying and marking the location where the swale will be dug. It helps in ensuring that the swale is built on the correct contour and at the right depth to effectively capture and distribute water.

How does the swale design benefit fruit trees, such as the mango tree mentioned in the script?

The swale design benefits fruit trees by providing them with a source of water and nutrients. The water from the swale soaks around the tree, enhancing the soil and providing the tree with the necessary moisture and nutrients for growth.

What is the purpose of the 'level seal' in the swale construction?

The purpose of the level seal is to control the height of the water in the swale. It ensures that the water overflows at a specific point, preventing the water from running off the property and instead spreading it across the landscape.

Why is it recommended to walk along the marked line before digging the swale?

Walking along the marked line before digging helps in visualizing and feeling the swale's layout. It allows for adjustments and ensures that the swale is comfortable and practical for use, such as moving a wheelbarrow along it.

What is the importance of decompacting the soil before building the swale?

Decompacting the soil is important because it allows for better water absorption and root penetration. It prepares the soil for the swale by ensuring that the water and nutrients can be effectively distributed and utilized by the plants.

How does the swale contribute to the overall permaculture design of the garden?

The swale contributes to the permaculture design by integrating water management and nutrient cycling into the landscape. It helps in creating a self-sustaining system where water and nutrients are efficiently used to support plant growth.

What is the role of green manure in the swale system as mentioned in the script?

Green manure, such as the acacia mentioned in the script, plays a crucial role in fertilizing the landscape. These plants are allowed to grow and then decompose, adding nutrients to the soil and enriching the swale system.

What is the significance of the 'back cut' in the swale design?

The back cut is significant as it provides stability to the swale. It should not be too steep to prevent soil from falling in due to clay swelling and shrinking in different weather conditions. A stable back cut ensures the longevity and effectiveness of the swale.