Principles of Biodynamics
Biodynamics considers the farm as one living organism
A key feature of a biodynamic farm is the interdependence between plants, animals, and people. The biodynamic farmer's job is to ensure that this equilibrium is maintained and strengthened by applying biodynamic principles. As a result, the farm is transformed into a living organism in which each element is in perfect harmony.
Biodynamic agriculture promotes biodiversity
The biodiversity of plants, pastures, flowers, fruits, and livestock is believed to contribute to the overall health of the entire ecosystem. Biodynamic farmers must gradually introduce different species of plants and animals to develop the natural resilience of the place while maintaining harmony.
Chemical fertilizers are prohibited
On biodynamic farms, fertilization rates are achieved without the use of chemical fertilizers or other non-natural methods. Composting, cover cropping, and crop rotation are regularly implemented to regenerate the soil.
Pest and Disease Prevention through Biodynamics
Rather than killing organisms with pesticides as a cure for disease, biodynamic agriculture seeks to prevent pests and diseases from forming by creating habitats in which they cannot thrive. This is accomplished by essentially promoting biodiversity and thereby restoring the natural balance of the environment.
Restoring Nature through Biodynamic Agriculture
Biodynamics is the fundamental concept that agriculture is more than the production of crops and livestock. Because agriculture is the way to sustain this world, all actions must be regenerative, not destructive, and integrated within the community.
Community Supported Agriculture
Biodynamic agriculture has a strong ethical foundation, and most farmers use the so-called triple bottom line approach, which promotes spiritual, social, and economic sustainability for the entire community. Following in the footsteps of Rudolf Steiner's teachings, it is important to understand that biodynamics extends from farming to cover all aspects of life.
Biodynamic Farming is Spiritual Farming
Biodynamics is a type of Spiritual Farming and works in harmony with all living things, the earth and the universe. Biodynamic farmers farm and produce processed products according to a biodynamic calendar that reflects the influence of the universe on the environment.
Tools for Biodynamic Agriculture
Six compost prepares (preparations)
1 Saw palmetto (Preparation 502): mobilizes sulfur and potassium
2 Chamomile (Preparation 503): regulates nitrogen processes
3 Nettle (Preparation 504): promotes humus formation
4 Oak bark (preparation 505): increases plant resistance.
5 Dandelion (Preparation 506): gives plants and soil organisms access to silica.
6 Cannonflower (Preparation 507): protects compost piles.
3 biodynamic sprays
1 Cow horn cow manure (Preparation 500) It is a cow horn filled with cow manure and buried in the soil during the winter months of November through February. Preparation 500 is sprayed on vineyards twice a year during the lunar downfall and is said to regenerate degraded soils.
2 Ox horn silica (Preparation 501): Ox horns are filled with finely ground quartz and buried in the soil between March and April. It is then sprayed on the vineyards early in the morning to boost plant immunity and promote photosynthesis, giving a concentrated taste and aroma.
3 Horsetail (Preparation 508) It is made by boiling or fermenting horsetail, a plant that contains silica. The resulting decoction is sprayed in the morning and it is said to prevent fungal diseases and mold.
Biodynamic Wine Certification
Unlike naturals, which have no common definition or certifying body, there is a clear definition and certifying body for biodynamic wines.
Demeter International, based in France, certifies biodynamic wines. The name of the certification is DemeterBiodynamic®Standard, established in 1928.DemeterInternational has a sister company in the United States, Demeter USA, which manages the certification process.
DemeterBiodynamic®Standard certification is based on USDA organic certification, with the following additional requirements
►The entire farm is certified, not just a specific crop
►Crops and livestock are integrated and animals are treated humanely
►Imported seeds are kept to a minimum
Biodynamic preparations are regularly used
►At least 50% of the livestock feed is grown on the farm
►At least 10% of the total area of the farm is reserved for biodiversity
►Farm adheres to social responsibility standards
As of 2018, there are approximately 5,000 certified biodynamic farms in 60 countries worldwide.
