A sustainable gardening technique from Lesotho in Southern Africa is being hailed as a revolutionary way to grow food in dry or nutrient-poor soil. Simon Akeroyd, a gardening enthusiast, shared his experience with keyhole gardening in a recent Instagram video, calling it "the most sustainable gardening technique on the planet."

"Some people laughed when I said this, that the most sustainable gardening technique comes from Lesotho," Akeroyd said. "It's made from whatever free materials you can find - rocks, wood, bricks, stones, logs, recycled rubbish - creating a raised bed shaped like a keyhole."

At the heart of the keyhole garden is a central compost heap, designed to be permeable so nutrients can leach into the surrounding soil.

Akeroyd explained that he used chicken wire for the structure, but traditionally grass, straw or reeds are used. Kitchen waste added regularly to the compost keeps the garden fertilised naturally.

"I planted chillies, squashes and courgettes in mine, and I cannot keep up with how much food it's producing," he added.

The circular raised bed, with a channel carved in the shape of a keyhole, allows easy access to the central compost, which feeds the plants without frequent watering.

The design also makes it easier to reach every part of the garden without stepping on the soil, helping maintain soil structure and fertility.

Keyhole gardening originated in Lesotho, where communities developed the method to grow food in regions with poor soil. The system has been praised for its ability to conserve water, reduce the need for fertiliser, and produce abundant crops even in arid conditions.

In his Instagram caption, Akeroyd highlighted the wider benefits of the method, noting its potential to improve food security and help communities adapt to climate change.

"Keyhole gardening is great for dry, arid conditions and droughts and can be used to combat climate change," he said. "It is also useful for improving food security."

For gardeners looking to grow more sustainably, the keyhole method offers a simple, low-cost solution that combines recycling, composting, and efficient water use.