Dervaes Institute

Resistance is fertile

Modern Pioneers
Citified Farm Animals
Energy Independence
Self-Sufficiency
Water & Waste Reclamation
At a Glance

The act of putting into your mouth what the earth has grown is perhaps your most direct interaction with the earth.

~ Frances Moore Lappé ~

Here at our urban garden we use a variety of agricultural methods, such as permaculture and bio-intensive farming, plus our own unique gardening system developed over time by trial and error.

Everything is grown as organically as possible, and no harmful chemicals or insecticides are ever used on our garden. We also try our best to follow agrarian principles outlined in the Bible and tithe ten percent of our increase.

Nature in Southern California presents a tough challenge even for the typical lawn landscape because the average rainfall is just 19 inches a year (more often, less). From May to November rain does not fall here. So, to contend with this semi-arid condition, we brought in several loads of chips from local tree-trimming companies as a way of conserving water in the soil.

Each day, especially during the abundant harvest of summer, our meals consist primarily of our own healthful, organic produce. Many times we make desserts using fresh fruits from trees growing on our lot. We eat according to the seasons; from nature's "grocery" we make our meals.

Practicing stewardship of the land has turned our small property into a haven for many "wild" animals. There are a variety of birds feasting on the multitude of bugs and seeds, butterflies and bees busily pollinating our plants, and a family of squirrels.

Besides providing our wholesome daily "bread," gardening gives us one good workout. And, where else can one enjoy serenity everyday but by living in a garden?

Please note: we are working hard to get PART II of this site ready. These sections/articles will be published once they are completed.

In the meantime, you can visit our "old site" and read about a few of the steps we have taken (remember: the external links will not work)

Thank you for your understanding and patience.

BIOINTENSIVE
Introduction

GARDENING
CONCEPTS
Introduction

EM BOKASHI
Introduction

FOREST GARDEN
Introduction

HOME FOOD PRODUCTION
Introduction

HEALTHY SOIL
Introduction

METHODS & PRINCIPLES
Introduction

MULCHING
Introduction

PEST MANAGEMENT
Introduction

RAISED BEDS
Introduction

ROCK DUST
Introduction

 SEED BALLS
Introduction
How to Make

SELF-WATERING CONTAINERS
Introduction

THREE SISTERS
Introduction

URBAN PERMACULTURE
Introduction

WILDLIFE
Introduction

For composting methods see the Waste & Water section section of the website

::Coming Soon::

Look for writings on these subjects in the near future.

Companion Planting

Unique Edible Tubers

Natural Fertilizers

Integral Garden Practices


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