EDN 131 figure 1

Examples of keyhole gardens, built with wood (top, ECHO, Florida), bricks (bottom right, Tanzania) and a cross-section (bottom left). Compost can be placed in the center (A), with an optional covering, to supply nutrients to surrounding plants. The planting area (B) is filled with a mix of soil and organic material, topped with a layer of mulch. If drainage is an issue, a layer of rocks or other coarse material could be placed at the base of the planting area. The keyhole (C) provides access to the center (where compost can be placed) and to the planting area. An outer wall (D), constructed with locally available material such as wooden posts, rocks or used rice sacks, keeps the garden contained. Source: Tim Motis, Betsy Langford and Nate Flood.