Permaculture offers principles that are part of a holistic framework and a set of thinking tools that allow us to creatively re-design our environment and our behaviour in an unravelling world and, like a living system, it has evolved and grown. We can demonstrate and develop that these tried and tested principles work, bringing us back to a unity with nature and community.

In this collaborative book, Wilf Richards, plus a collective of experienced permaculture teachers and elders from across Britain and beyond, explore David Holmgren’s twelve permaculture principles, retrieve many of Bill Mollison’s original ones, and include new principles from permaculture designers worldwide. Together they share a history of each principle, its evolution, and tell stories of how they are now being used, understood and applied.

Permaculture principles have evolved from Indigenous knowledge, observations of nature’s cycles, and the living, teaching and practice of permaculture over the past 50 years in many different climates and cultures. They can be applied to our personal, economic, social and political lives. The ethical foundation of permaculture guides us to use these design tools for the betterment of the land, our wild relatives, and human culture.

Full of stories and case studies, The Power of Permaculture Principles will enable you to enrich your knowledge of permaculture and how to apply it to your own life.

Product Details

Publisher Permanent Publications
Publish Date 31 March 2026
Pages 224
Language English
TypeBook iconPaperback
EAN/UPC 9781856231954
Dimensions 240.0 X 170.0 X 15.0 mm | 0.0 pounds

In this unique, full colour guide, experienced permaculture teacher Aranya leads you through the design process from beginning to end, using clear explanations, flowcharts and diagrams.

It is based on course worksheets which have been designed, refined and tested on students over time.

Linking theory to practice, he places the ethics, principles, philosophies, tools and techniques directly into the context of the process itself.

While written for anyone with a basic grasp of permaculture, this book also has plenty to offer the more experienced designer.

This guide covers: Systems and patterns ~ Working as part of a design team ~ Land and non-land based design ~ Design frameworks ~ Site surveying and map making ~ Interviewing clients ~ Working with large client groups ~ Identifying functions ~ Choosing systems and elements ~ Placement and integration ~ Creating a design proposal ~ Project management ~ Presenting your ideas to clients ~ and much more.

A great reference for anyone who has done, or is thinking of doing, any kind of permaculture course.

Product Details

Publisher	Permanent Publications
Publish Date	03 September 2012
Pages	208
Language	English
Type	Paperback
EAN/UPC	9781856230919
Dimensions	209.0 X 168.0 X 12.0 mm | 384.0 g

Within a few days the slugs stop feeding and die shortly after. Safe for use around pets, children, and wildlife, these nematodes for slugs in UK gardens offer a simple, chemical-free way to protect plants.

How Nematodes for Slugs Work in the Soil

Slug nematodes occur naturally in soil but in low numbers. By applying additional nematodes, you increase their presence and quickly reduce slug populations. Once inside the slug, the nematodes feed and multiply, spreading to other slugs in the area. This breaks the slug life cycle and helps protect your plants from root and leaf damage.

When to Apply Nematodes for Slugs in UK Gardens

For best results, apply nematode slug control every six weeks during the growing season when soil is moist and above 5ºC. Starting treatment before planting gives protection as young plants establish. Applications can continue through spring, summer, and autumn to maintain control and reduce future slug problems.

Sizes Available for Nematodes for Slugs UK

Slug nematodes are available in different pack sizes to suit your garden. Options include packs for 40 square metres and 100 square metres.

Why Choose Nematode Slug Control for Your Garden

Using nematodes for slugs offers a natural way to protect ornamental plants, fruit, and vegetables. They are safe for wildlife, pollinators, pets, and children while remaining highly targeted against slugs. With repeat use through the season, you can reduce slug populations and enjoy healthier plants.

How to Apply Slug Nematodes Around Plants

The nematodes come with full instructions and can be applied using a watering can or nematode applicator. Apply to moist soil when the soil temperature is above 5ºC (41ºF) and ensure the soil does not dry out for at least two weeks after application.

Nematodes are capable of surviving the odd frost, so don’t worry if the temperature falls after application.

Please note: these are a live product with an expiry date of around two weeks and are non-returnable. Use the whole pack before the expiry date. Best applied: Feb/March – October.

Our pH meter is a versatile tool that can meet all of your pH measurement needs. Plus, with its durable construction and long battery life, you can count on it to provide reliable results for years to come.

Try it today and see the difference for yourself

Benefits of using a pH meter

1. Accurate and reliable results: A pH meter provides highly accurate and consistent readings, making it a reliable tool for measuring pH.
2. Convenience and ease of use: Many pH meters are easy to use and provide quick results, making them a convenient option for measuring pH.
3. Versatility: pH meters can be used in a wide range of applications, including scientific research, lab testing, agriculture, and aquarium maintenance.
4. Durability: Many pH meters are built to last and can withstand a range of conditions, making them a reliable tool for long-term use.
5. Cost-effective: In many cases, using a pH meter is more cost-effective than other methods of measuring pH, such as litmus paper or indicator solutions.

Overall, using a pH meter can help ensure accurate and reliable measurements of pH, which can be important for a wide range of applications.

Achieve faster decomposition and nutrient-rich compost with the Compost Thermometer. Maintaining the right temperature is key to effective composting, ensuring beneficial microbes thrive while breaking down organic matter efficiently.

Why Use a Compost Thermometer?

A compost thermometer helps monitor the core temperature of your compost pile, allowing you to make adjustments for optimal decomposition. If the pile is too cold, breakdown slows; if too hot, essential microbes may be lost.

Key Features

•  Stainless Steel Probe: 5mm x 500mm for deep core readings
•  Easy-to-Read Dial: 50mm color-coded display
•  Wide Temperature Range: 0-100°C (32-212°F)
• Ideal for gardeners & composting enthusiasts

How to Use a Compost Thermometer

Insert the probe into the centre of your compost pile and read the temperature on the dial. The core of the pile is where heat levels are highest, making it the best spot to measure.

Ideal Composting Temperature

For efficient composting, maintain a temperature between 120-160°F (49-71°C). Below 120°F, decomposition slows; above 160°F, beneficial microbes may die.

How to Adjust Compost Temperature

• Add green materials like grass clippings and food scraps to increase heat.
• Turn the pile regularly to distribute heat evenly.
• Cover with a tarp to retain warmth.
• Keep the pile moist for efficient heating.

Importance of Soil pH and Nutrient Testing

Maintaining the correct balance of pH and essential nutrients is vital for optimal plant health. Testing your soil’s pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels allows you to create the ideal growing environment, ensuring your plants have the right conditions to thrive. Each of these components plays a critical role in different aspects of plant growth:

pH: Checking the pH helps keep soil acidity or alkalinity at the right level, creating ideal conditions for plants to absorb nutrients effectively.

Nitrogen (N): Vital for promoting strong root development, especially in root vegetables. Also supports the formation of healthy stems and budding growth.

Phosphorus (P): Indispensable for strong root growth and root vegetables. It also plays a key role in the formation of healthy stems and buds.

Potassium (K): Helps shrubs and flowers grow well, with enough potassium to boost both colour and scent. In vegetables, it supports healthier, higher-quality crops.

Information

When to Test Your Soil

Testing your soil periodically is essential throughout the growing season. It is particularly recommended to test the pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before spring planting and pH, phosphorus, and potassium when preparing autumn beds. If your plants show signs of poor growth, a soil test can be beneficial in diagnosing and correcting nutrient deficiencies or imbalances.

How to Conduct a Soil Test

With this kit, conducting a soil test is straightforward. Follow the detailed instructions provided to collect soil samples and perform the tests accurately. Each test is designed to provide you with clear results that can be easily compared to the colour charts on the box, giving you precise insights into your soil’s condition.

Benefits of Knowing Your Soil’s pH and Nutrient Levels

Understanding your soil’s pH and nutrient levels allows you to tailor your plant choices and soil amendments, preventing incompatibilities and promoting optimal nutrient absorption. The kit includes multiple tests, giving you ample opportunity to monitor and manage your soil conditions effectively throughout the growing season, ensuring a thriving garden.

FAQ for Soil Testing Kit

The colour of my liquid doesn’t match the chart – what’s gone wrong?

If your test result shows a colour not found on the chart, it may be because the soil was too cold when tested. Make sure the soil is at room temperature, around 19°C, before you begin. Another reason could be that the test hasn’t fully developed yet. Leave it for up to 24 hours and check again. If the result is still unclear, repeat the test and make sure all measurements are accurate and well mixed.

Soil pH Testing for Every Season

Soil pH testing is important across the entire growing season. If your plants are underperforming or show signs of poor health, a simple pH test may reveal whether acidity or alkalinity is affecting nutrient availability. Regular use can help prevent guesswork and allow for better plant selection and soil amendments.

Simple pH Testing Method Using Soil Sample

Place a dry soil sample into the supplied test tube, add the testing solution and barium sulphate, then shake and check the colour against the guide. This process gives quick, visible results and is most accurate when performed at room temperature (around 19°C). It’s a practical step for improving plant compatibility and overall garden success.

Includes 15 Tests with Clear Instructions

The kit comes with enough solution and materials to perform fifteen tests. It includes a colour comparison guide and instruction leaflet, so it’s easy for any gardener to use. Ideal for lawns, vegetable patches, raised beds, and more.

Key Benefits

• Supports better nutrient absorption by measuring pH
• Helps match plants to soil type for improved results
• Simple process with easy-to-read colour indicators
• Recommended before planting in spring or autumn
• Prevents poor growth by identifying soil issues early
• Complete kit with everything needed for 15 tests

Specifications

• Contains enough for 15 soil pH tests
• Includes test tube, solution and barium sulphate
• Instruction sheet and colour guide supplied
• Suitable for outdoor garden soil testing
• For use at approx. 19°C with dry soil samples

FAQs for the Soil Testing Kit

Why is the colour result not on the chart?
This can happen for a couple of reasons. If the soil is too cold, the reaction may not complete properly – always test soil at room temperature (about 19°C). It may also need more time to develop, so leave the solution for up to 24 hours and check again. If the colour is still unclear, try repeating the test and double-check the measurement amounts.

How often should I test my soil?
It’s recommended to test before spring planting and again when preparing autumn beds. You can also test mid-season if plants are not growing as expected.

Can this test kit be reused?
Each kit includes materials for 15 tests. You’ll need to purchase a new kit once those are used.