Nothing says "I just read a book about permaculture!" like an herb spiral in your yard, particularly if it isn't well cared for. The whole concept of an herb spiral is to put the plants you use most nearest your kitchen door, but if the plants you use most are not the ones you plant on the spiral -- because you're using someone else's design from a book -- then the concept starts to fall apart.
What's more, the spiral design is far more exposed to sun and wind than a typical garden bed, which means you have to use heavy, dense mulch and water frequently. All in all I'm not sold on the design. Most of what I planted on the spiral did not survive the harsh conditions. After two years, I replaced the herb spiral with a hugelkultur bed and had more success.
See more photos of this installation.
