Biodynamics - About Biodynamics

Biodynamics is based on Rudolf Steiner's spiritual science, which undoubtedly presents a new understanding of agriculture with the capacity to meet the agricultural demands of present times. The difference that Biodynamics presents from "organic" farming practices is that it recognises that there is a growth force or energy force which is related to the cosmic rhythms. This means that the movements of the moon and other planets have a profound influence on the soil, plant and animal life. Using specially formulated Biodynamic herbal preparations, which are applied to the soil, compost and liquid manure enhances these processes very much.

What is Biodynamics?
Biodynamics ("biological - dynamics) is a method of organic agriculture which can be applied to any farm or horticultural enterprise, by following a series of practical steps.

The steps emphasise building soil fertility, and are carefully tailored to the particular property. They include :

Biodynamics is a systems approach - the farm is viewed as a living whole, in which each farm activity affects the others. Management is based on the farmer's own careful observations, plus the results of tests and analyses. This leads to a modern approach in which traditional knowledge finds a renewal.

What are the Advantages?
Because Biodynamics uses very limited external inputs, and reuses most on farm waste, it has a low impact on the environment. It provides an economical way of farming in which most of the costs are met at the time they incurred. It thus offers a solution to conflicts between economics and the environment.

A further benefit is the quality of the produce. Flavour and keeping quality of the foods, lustre and comfort of fibres provoke favourable comment from consumers.

The international trademark Demeter assures buyers that produce is Biodynamically grown.                                              

Where did Biodynamics come from?
In 1924 a number of German farmers were deeply concerned with signs of agriculture in decline:


Philosopher and scientist Dr Rudolf Steiner responded with lectures introducing Biodynamic concepts.

In New Zealand, Biodynamic methods were first used in1928 at Havelock North.

What is Demeter Certification?
A change-over period of at least three years is required for farms, orchards and market gardens which have been worked by conventional means, before they can carry the Demeter trademark on their products. The Transition Demeter mark can be used after a year's farming to the published standards.

Licences to use the Demeter trademark are renewed yearly, and the Association's inspectors visit licensed properties regularly.

Processed products bearing the Demeter trademark come from licensed farms, and the processing, also licensed, is inspected to protect the integrity of the produce.

The licence to carry the Demeter trademark is your guarantee that the product conforms to the highest standard of Biodynamic agriculture and horticulture.

Look for this trademark when buying organic produce:
Bio-Gro
  

What is the Biodynamic Association?
The Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association was established in 1945 to promote biodynamic methods.

Membership is open to anyone interested in biodynamic farming and gardening methods, and current members include farmers, processors, orchardists, commercial and home gardeners as well as others who wish to support this work.

For further information please contact:

David Wright, Executive Secretary
P.O.Box 39045, Wellington
Ph (04) 589 5366
Fax (04) 589 5365

For more information on Biodynamics please click on the link below: