Biodynamic
What?
Biodynamics take organic viticulture to the next level. With organics acting as the foundation, Biodynamic Farming is a holistic and sustainable approach to agriculture that incorporates spiritual, ecological, and cosmic principles. Developed by Rudolf Steiner in the early 20th century, it considers the farm as a self-contained organism and emphasizes the interconnectedness of soil, plants, animals, and cosmic rhythms.
Why?
Holistic Approach: Biodynamic Farming views the farm as a self-contained and interconnected organism. It considers the relationships between soil, plants, animals, and cosmic influences, promoting a holistic approach to agriculture.
Soil Health: The emphasis on high-quality compost and preparations is aimed at enhancing soil fertility and structure. Biodynamic practices contribute to building and maintaining healthy soils, which are crucial for sustainable agriculture.
Self-Sustainability: Biodynamic farming promotes closed nutrient cycles, reducing reliance on external inputs. This can lead to increased self-sufficiency and sustainability, minimizing the environmental impact of farming operations.
Biodiversity: The encouragement of biodiversity within the farm helps create a balanced ecosystem. Integrating crops, livestock, and fostering habitat for beneficial insects contributes to overall farm resilience.
Cosmic Rhythms: Some farmers believe that planting and cultivation based on lunar and celestial cycles can positively influence plant growth and development. While this aspect is more spiritual in nature, some practitioners find value in aligning agricultural activities with cosmic rhythms.
Spiritual and Ethical Values: Biodynamic Farming incorporates spiritual and ethical principles, emphasizing the farmer's responsibility for the well-being of the land and the environment. Some individuals are drawn to the philosophical and ethical aspects of this farming approach.
Unique Preparations: The use of specific preparations, such as the horn manure and horn silica, is believed to enhance the vitality of the farm. These preparations are unique to Biodynamic Farming and contribute to its distinctiveness.
Market Demand: In some cases, there may be a market demand for Biodynamic products. Consumers who prioritize organic and sustainable products may seek out Biodynamic produce, creating a niche market for farmers.
Nutritional increase: Proponents of Biodynamic Farming argue that the emphasis on soil health, biodiversity, and holistic practices can lead to more nutrient-dense crops that in turn can improve taste as well.
How?
Nine preparations;
Comprised of
Cow Horn manure(#500)
Cow Horn Silica(#501)
Yarrow(#502)
Chamomile(#503)
Stinging nettle(#504)
Oak bark(#505)
Dandelion(#506)
Valerian(#507)
Horsetail Tea(#508)
Mother Nature has been farming the earth for much longer than humans have. Everything needs to be in balance. When something is out of balance a solution is created to bring it back. Think of these as 9 “Solutions” to aid in balancing daily farming complications. The nine make up what is used to create the compost and sprays that replace conventional farming techniques that would in turn create more issues in the long term.
Lunar cycle;
Ever wonder how the oceans tides work? Gravity. The gravitational pull from the moon is strong enough to pull and release a colossal amount of water. It also effects the sap flow of plants and more specifically vines. Certain farming procedures can be conducted with consideration to the lunar cycle which will determine where the sap is and protect the health of the vine. i.e pruning, harvesting etc.
Fruit Days: Best days for harvesting grapes
Root Days: Ideal days for pruning
Flower Days: Leave the vineyard alone on these days
Leaf Days: Ideal days for watering/irrigation
Compost fertilizer; See nine preparations
Use of Animals;
Although tractors are very convenient, they are also very heavy. Soil compaction is a huge topic to be aware of. The compaction can prevent water from getting absorbed in to the soil and create run off which then leads to erosion. Mother nature invented tractors a long time ago and named them…. Sheep, Chickens, livestock, and Pigs. These cute “tractors’ come with tilling, fertilizing and weeding attachments with no added cost!