Biodynamic Gardening

      Biodynamic farming is an established term that describes a specific approach to farming and gardening. The various influences that come into play on the soil and plant life during the growth cycle are an important consideration in biodynamic farming. Biodynamic farming offers a number of practical suggestions on how gardeners can work with the localized rhythms of nature and of planetary bodies and learn to observe plant life in order to optimizes soil fertility growth and development.

     Most of the practical indications that are used today in the Biodynamic Movement were developed through the visionary work of Rudolf Steiner at the turn of the previous century. Biodynamic farmers around the world have further developed his initial work. Biodynamic farming builds upon sound organic methods – it is not a substitute for them.

     One fascinating example of Steiner’s insights is the way he pays particular attention to the four dominant aspects of plants, namely: Leaf, Fruit, Root and Flower. We learn how to harmonize our handling of the plants and their surroundings for the most appropriate and effective results. For this purpose we consult a calendar that indicates which days certain plants should be optimally planted and harvested. The Stella Natura calendar will be kept in the shed so that members can begin to understand the various planting and harvesting rhythms.

     Another example is Steiner’s indications for the essential components of a dynamised compost. This is achieved by paying attention to the processes at work in the vegetable material and applying this knowledge to the soil. These "learned" practices are as effective, and as much dependent, upon a gardener's creative intent, as good pragmatic gardening sense.

     Biodynamic farming and gardening is a vast subject that warrants years of study. The following only covers a few aspects. For more information, please visit the following website: www.biodynamics.com