I'm new to the forum and this is my first post - really excited to be delving into permaculture!
I live in zone 6, moved into a new house a few years back and I'm trying to build a forest garden at the front of the house.
The area is on the northern side of the property, with part of it getting lots of afternoon sun, but some of it almost completely shaded by house and large maple tree.
The photos attached are looking towards southeast.
There is a slight grade to the site - running from southeast corner towards northwest, and I am trying to first and foremost establish how to properly move water through / retain water in the best way possible.
I brought in soil and organic matter and built some hugels, will be planting mostly herbs and flowers this season - for the years to come I am trying to figure out what midstory/sub canopy tree(s) and shrubs I can pair with the overstory/canopy maple - in addition to how to utilize water optimally.
Another thing I must consider is lots of squirrels and rabbits around that will munch on anything they can.
I wanted to know if anyone has any advice for successfully turning this into a food forest / permaculture tree guild - I will be very grateful for your input!
