Matt Short is a practical permaculturist, hands-on gardener, and sustainability educator based in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. With years of experience transforming ordinary suburban spaces into thriving, low-maintenance food systems, Matt specializes in real-world solutions that work with nature—not against it.

Drawing from his work in garden design, education, and local food production, Matt created Suburban Permaculture: A Handbook as a practical guide for anyone wanting to grow more, waste less, and live better—starting right where they are. His work blends traditional ecological knowledge with accessible DIY approaches, making permaculture principles achievable for everyday households.

When not in the garden, Matt shares his time between foraging, fishing, experimenting with regenerative systems, and helping others reconnect with the land in meaningful, grounded ways.