Function Stacking On Small Scale Homesteads

On this podcast episode I will discuss what is commonly known as the second permaculture design principle, Stacking Functions. The application of this design principle can lead to a more productive homestead.

Homestead Updates:

Finally got more than just cold weather crops started in the greenhouse.Making progress on the podcast studio.Going to a homesteading meetup next weekend to talk about a few things and have fun.

Hangin’ Out on the Homestead Front Porch:

Lots of great posts this week, it’s funny to see half the people in there growing things already, even some harvesting things already and the other half still covered in snow.

Join today if you’re not already a part of this great Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/HomesteadFrontPorch

Main Topic Of Discussion:

Function Stacking On Small Scale Homesteads

What Is Function Stacking?

The term originated or at least gained popularity in the permaculture community. It’s defined as a element that serves multiple functions.

Function Stacking In The Garden.

Trees

produce

fodder

shade

wind block

compost

trellis

Bushes

protection

Plants

food

soil amendment

pollinator attractor 

Function Stacking Small Scale Livestock.

Rabbits

meat

fur

manure

Chickens

meat

eggs

feathers

compost material

labor

Fish

meat

manure

Worms

labor

castings

soil aeration 

livestock

food

fishing bait

Function Stacking Structures.

Raised Beds

*depends on design and building material

protection

micro climate

heatsink

shade

Roofs

weather protection

water collection

shade

Outer Walls

shade

heat sink

trellis

Applying The Function Stacking Principle To Everything.

Today’s Recommendation:

Paradise Lot: Two Plant Geeks, One-Tenth of an Acre, and the Making of an Edible Garden Oasis in the City by Eric Toensmeier

Gaia’s Garden: A Guide to Home-Scale Permaculture by Toby Hemenway

The Homestead Life: 

A new segment where each episode I will share something that’s better in my life because of homesteading.

Homemade Bread: It’s something we never did before we started homesteading and now I couldn’t imagine my life without it. The way the house smells while you’re baking it, the way you have to cut off a slice as soon as it comes out of the oven and throw some real butter on it. Noticing the little things about it like how it doesn’t stay good as long as store bought bread, makes you wonder what all is in it that makes it stay good so long.