Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Are weeds really a problem—or are they nature’s way of showing us what’s missing? In this Q&A, Geoff reframes invasive species as signals, solutions and helpers in damaged ecosystems. Learn why weeds might be the fastest path to diversity and how holistic design treats causes, not symptoms.
This video is taken from Geoff’s 2019 Online Permaculture Design Course, which includes weekly Q&A sessions where he answers student questions. Learn more about Geoff’s courses and start seeing your landscape differently at: discoverpermaculture.com
Key Takeaways:
- Weeds are often a symptom, not the problem—look at the conditions that allow them to thrive.
- Holistic design treats the cause of ecosystem imbalance, not just the plants labeled as “weeds.”
- Many so-called invasive species act as “hardworking immigrants,” supporting ecosystem function.
- The diversity of life on Earth has never been higher, and weeds play a role in that diversity.
- Study weeds carefully—they’re indicators of system weaknesses and opportunities for repair.
To support us in creating more videos:
► Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/geofflawtononline
► Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/geofflawtononline
► Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCL_r1ELEvAuN0peKUxI0Umw/?sub_confirmation=1
► And most importantly, enjoy your permaculture journey!
About Geoff:
Geoff is a world-renowned permaculture consultant, designer and teacher who has established demonstration sites in many of the world’s major climates. He’s dedicated his life to sharing permaculture design and inspiring people to care for the earth, care for each other and return the surplus.
About Permaculture:
Permaculture weaves land, resources, people and the environment into a single, supportive system. It mirrors how nature works—no waste, no shortcuts, just smart relationships. The tools are wide-ranging: water harvesting, soil building, energy systems, forestry, natural building, aquaculture, appropriate technology, community development and more. Whether you’re on acreage or in an apartment, these principles scale beautifully.
#permaculture #soilhealth #livingsoil #compost #wormfarming #micronutrients #regenerativeagriculture #soilecology #growfood
Are weeds really a problem—or are they nature’s way of showing us what’s missing? In this Q&A, Geoff reframes invasive species as signals, solutions and helpers in damaged ecosystems. Learn why weeds might be the fastest path to diversity and how holistic design treats causes, not symptoms.
This video is taken from Geoff’s 2019 Online Permaculture Design Course, which includes weekly Q&A sessions where he answers student questions. Learn more about Geoff’s courses and start seeing your landscape differently at: discoverpermaculture.com
Key Takeaways:
- Weeds are often a symptom, not the problem—look at the conditions that allow them to thrive.
- Holistic design treats the cause of ecosystem imbalance, not just the plants labeled as “weeds.”
- Many so-called invasive species act as “hardworking immigrants,” supporting ecosystem function.
- The diversity of life on Earth has never been higher, and weeds play a role in that diversity.
- Study weeds carefully—they’re indicators of system weaknesses and opportunities for repair.
To support us in creating more videos:
► Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/geofflawtononline
► Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/geofflawtononline
► Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCL_r1ELEvAuN0peKUxI0Umw/?sub_confirmation=1
► And most importantly, enjoy your permaculture journey!
About Geoff:
Geoff is a world-renowned permaculture consultant, designer and teacher who has established demonstration sites in many of the world’s major climates. He’s dedicated his life to sharing permaculture design and inspiring people to care for the earth, care for each other and return the surplus.
About Permaculture:
Permaculture weaves land, resources, people and the environment into a single, supportive system. It mirrors how nature works—no waste, no shortcuts, just smart relationships. The tools are wide-ranging: water harvesting, soil building, energy systems, forestry, natural building, aquaculture, appropriate technology, community development and more. Whether you’re on acreage or in an apartment, these principles scale beautifully.
#permaculture #soilhealth #livingsoil #compost #wormfarming #micronutrients #regenerativeagriculture #soilecology #growfood
