No, no trees or wind breaks. I see that as one of my biggest challenges going forward. That, and dealing with the "feast or famine" water situation here.
I actually cut down a couple dozen young mesquite trees (more like bushes) because I wanted the space for fruit trees, I wanted things simpler for mowing and/or "clean", I didn't like the thorns, and I was inexperienced in the ways of
permaculture.
I cut down those mesquite trees in 2008 when I first moved here. I also planted a bunch of fruit trees the same year. Many are still alive (but not thriving) while others have died.
I do have one LARGE mesquite tree on my property, a much younger one by the front entrance to my property, and several either in the wild/ditch area, or right outside my property line. Recently, I decided to have it both ways by encouraging mesquite trees on the property line (where the trunk is located the neighbors' property), but trimming any branches that hung over on my side of the property line. That way I'd have shade, windblock, etc. but wouldn't have to give up even an inch of space on my side.
As far as organic material, I actually have a hedge all along the north side of the property. There's a dropoff/ditch running right along the fenceline, and that area is "wild". Lots of thorny bushes and a few young mesquite trees. I might cut those and use for
hugelkultur or Holzer raised beds. He said to use entire thorn bushes for that. Though he also suggested other uses for thorn bushes (safe haven for birds, nesting for birds). I also have some dried reed/bamboo like things -- some kind of weed that grows in the wet seasons. They grow as much as 8 or 10 feet tall, and sometimes two inches in diameter (but hollow in the center). I'll probably collect those from the wild areas and use them for mulch, paths, etc.
The ground is mostly
native grass right now. Very exposed, especially during time of drought (which is at least once a year here, it seems lately). I need to get better ground cover. I'm interested in getting some pioneer plants/ground cover.
We do have a pretty good gradation/variety of elevation. Mostly flat, but the land is "rolling" so it's not like Illinois or Iowa. I think there's a 3 meter difference between the highest point and the lowest point. Great for
permaculture!
Weeds? I can't identify most of them. We have lots of mesquite seedlings that grow ridiculously fast when they feel like it. As in, they go from totally non-existent above ground to 24" tall in about 2 weeks. That happened last October and I think they shoot up in May as well. They have a lot of thorns and they make it difficult to mow with a riding mower -- though
Sepp has me re-thinking my mowing habits, especially how it dries out the land. On the other hand, I have to do something about chiggers, which we have here.
I was thinking of taking some pictures to try to identify the native flora here.
Let's just say I'm very much still learning, and trying to figure out the best solution for me.
