Chip Drop Review: A Permaculture Approach to Wood Chip Delivery

This article details a personal experience using Chip Drop, a wood chip delivery service, to establish a permaculture fruit tree guild. The author recounts the entire process, from the initial large-scale delivery and the subsequent challenges in communication and payment, to the eventual success in creating a thriving, multi-faceted landscape design. The narrative highlights both the benefits and drawbacks of utilizing Chip Drop for a significant project, offering practical solutions to potential problems encountered along the way.The account provides valuable insights into managing large quantities of wood chips, including strategies for protecting existing structures like fences and addressing neighborly concerns. Furthermore, the author shares their permaculture design principles, focusing on thoughtful plant placement, sunlight management, and the integration of low-maintenance ground cover to create a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing environment. This firsthand review offers a realistic perspective on the practical application of a wood chip delivery service within a larger permaculture project.

Pros And Cons

Chip Drop
  • Delivered wood chips.
  • Multiple deliveries after initial issues resolved.
  • Initial delivery issues and delays.
  • Separate payment for subsequent deliveries after initial issues.

Read more: 10 Best Electric Smoker Wood Chips for Delicious BBQ

Chip Drop Delivery and Fence Protection

My experience with Chip Drop started with a significant wood chip delivery from a local arborist. The sheer volume was impressive, easily enough to create the foundation for my permaculture project. To protect my fence from potential rot, I employed a clever strategy: wrapping it in a layer of 4-mil thick plastic secured with a hammer stapler. This wasn't a perfect weed barrier, but it did prevent direct wood-to-wood contact.

Wood chips against fence, weed barrier.
Wood chips against fence, weed barrier.

While not a complete solution against weeds, it provided a necessary layer of protection for the fence. I anticipated some weed growth and this was a practical solution to mitigate the risks associated with the wood chips against the fence. The effort was worth it in protecting the structural integrity of the fence.

Wood chips protect fence from rot
Wood chips protect fence from rot

Designing a Permaculture Fruit Tree Guild

My main goal is to create a thriving permaculture fruit tree guild. The wood chips serve as the base for this project, creating a rich and fertile environment. I plan to incorporate pathways using a ground cover like microclover to minimize maintenance. The design emphasizes thoughtful placement of trees and other plants to foster a mutually beneficial ecosystem.

Wood chips for permaculture fruit tree guild
Wood chips for permaculture fruit tree guild

The design will involve strategically placed walkways to enhance accessibility and aesthetic appeal. The use of a low-maintenance ground cover like microclover will reduce the need for regular grass cutting. The overall design will maximize space utilization and the symbiotic relationships between the chosen plants.

Preparing backyard for permaculture fruit tree guild
Preparing backyard for permaculture fruit tree guild

Sunlight Management and Tree Placement

A significant maple tree was shading the area. To address this, I plan to have it topped to allow more sunlight to reach the six newly planted pine trees. This strategic pruning will foster growth and reduce competition among the trees. This will help to balance the sunlight and encourage healthy growth of the pine trees.

Large maple tree shading pine trees
Large maple tree shading pine trees

The pruning of the maple tree will be crucial in providing ample sunlight for the pine trees to thrive. This careful consideration of sunlight exposure is a vital aspect of my permaculture design principles. I carefully selected the locations to optimize the development of my fruit tree guild.

Chip Drop Service Experience

My experience with Chip Drop was initially frustrating due to delays and initial issues with payment. However, once the communication improved, the service became quite reliable and provided multiple deliveries. After initial setbacks, the service proved highly efficient and consistent. This highlights the potential for both positive and negative aspects, depending on various conditions.

While the initial process had some hiccups, the ultimate outcome was positive, with multiple deliveries satisfying my needs for wood chips. Open communication was key to resolving the initial problems. I would recommend patience and clear communication if you decide to utilize this service.

Neighborly Compromise and Future Plans

My neighbor initially had concerns about the large amount of wood chips. We reached a compromise by integrating the wood chips into my permaculture plans. This involved creating defined areas within the garden space, effectively managing the appearance and function of the wood chips.

The permaculture approach is more compatible with my neighbor's preference for a more traditional lawn. The systematic integration of wood chips into a permaculture project helps to maintain aesthetic appeal and minimizes neighborly concerns. This compromise demonstrates a sustainable solution to landscape challenges.

Conclusion: Is Chip Drop Worth It?

Chip Drop, despite some initial hurdles, proved effective for obtaining large quantities of wood chips. The service's reliability improved after addressing communication issues. The overall cost-effectiveness depends on your specific needs and location.

The success hinges on clear communication and potentially some patience. For large-scale projects requiring substantial wood chips, Chip Drop provides a potentially valuable resource. Weigh the initial challenges against the potential benefits before deciding if it is appropriate for your situation.