 |
 Biodynamic
agriculture is a unique form of organic agriculture. It seeks to
actively work with the health-giving forces of nature, recognizing
the spirit as well as the physical. Biodynamic practitioners work
to balance the life-forces and heal the earth, while producing
food that is truly nourishing.
The biodynamic method is based on the insights of the philosopher
and scientist, Rudolf Steiner. In 1924, he gave a series of eight
lectures to experienced farmers in Koberwitz, Germany. Since then,
farmers and gardeners all over the world have pursued this ongoing
path of knowledge.
Biodynamic agriculture focuses on enhancing the life processes of nature. We
work to create self-contained farm individualities. Each BD farm develops its
own identity based on the relationships between the animals that provide fertility
for the soil, the fields that provide food for animals and people, the plant
life, the meadows, the orchards, the forests and the wetlands giving space for
birds, insects and other wildlife. These interrelations support a healthy farm
capable of producing quality, health-giving products.
Farm balance and health are further encouraged by the use of biodynamic compost
preparations and field sprays. These special preparations are made on the farm
from common medicinal herbs and animal sheaths. They help the soil and plants
to relate to the form-giving forces behind nature.
 A
variety of sustainable farming techniques are used, including crop
rotation, composting, interplanting, careful treatment of livestock
to ensure both longevity and quality, and seed saving. In addition,
influences from the moon and other planets are taken into account.
In essence, the farmer becomes the conductor of an orchestra, working
with nature, recognizing weaknesses in the farm and working to
strengthen the whole farm organism.
The human aspect of biodynamic farming must not
be forgotten. It gives farmers the chance to work with nature, not against. The
CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) movement grew out of biodynamic farming,
with people recognizing the need to support the farm and its farmers, while receiving
quality food in return. Many BD farms also receive regular visits from school
children, as well as from adults looking for a chance to reconnect with nature.
Biodynamic agriculture seeks to actively work with the health-giving forces
of nature. By enlivening the soil, food can once again properly nourish people.
Biodynamic practitioners work to balance the life-forces and heal the earth,
without the use of chemicals. We use our knowledge of nature, our powers of observation
and a variety of sustainable techniques.
This text is copied from and authorized
by www.biodynamics.on.ca
Official website of the Society for Bio-Dynamic Farming and
Gardening in Ontario |
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