Farming Fit For The Future
This year we celebrate 100 years since Rudolf Steiner, on the request of farmers disillusioned with the damaging results of chemical fertilizers, set about developing a method of farming more deeply integrated with the natural world and cosmos, the universe.
As a precursor to and a part of modern organic farming, biodynamics shares all its benefits, while going further in many areas. It sees each farm as its own individuated and ecologically integrated system, placing an emphasis on balanced soil fertility, plant health, nature’s diversity, and animal welfare as part of a combined whole.
Respect is at its very core, while good practice, scientific and nature-based understanding, with a recognition of the spirit, seek to balance the harmony of nature. Since its conception in a series of lectures given to farmers in 1924, biodynamic farming has developed and spread exponentially with farms in 55 countries and over 251,000 hectares of land devoted to biodynamic farming worldwide as of 2020.
To celebrate this first hundred years, the Biodynamics Association is co-hosting and promoting many types of events to honour the relevance of biodynamics in farming and food production today, and look to the next hundred years to continue expanding on this growth. With the multitude of challenges facing humanity in the 21st century the need to seek a more balanced and integrated relationship with the natural world could not be more pertinent. Get involved by attending some of our events to celebrate and be part of constructing a healthier and joyful way of living, and a more ecologically balanced relationship between humanity and the natural ecosystems we are a part of.
Centenary Events
April
May
Six Inches of Soil: Film and Book Launch
A full feature documentary screening, shining a light on the young British farmers standing up against the industrial food system and transforming the way they produce food- to heal the soil, pioneer regenerative techniques and provide for their local communities. The film focuses on three farmers on the first year of their journey and the seasoned mentors guiding them. The film will be followed by the book launch and a panel discussion chaired by Martin Large of Hawthorn Press.
Runs the 10th of May.
Link to event
Northern Biodynamic Group: Centenary Day.
Celebratory day will be held on the 11th of May, this event will be a commemoration and celebration of all the amazing biodynamic work that has happened in Botton Village, Yorkshire. The event will include a coffee and welcome event, the sharing of personal journeys and connections with biodynamics, a group spraying, and the laying of future intentions.
Link to event
Runs the 11th of May
Weleda: Animal Journey & Spirit Workshop
This workshop run by local artist Lucy Voelker and set on the beautiful Weleda gardens in Shipley will explore how to connect spiritually with your animal guide. In many traditional cultures people live their lives in communication with non-human companions, this workshop offers a guided journey, through mediations and trust of imagination in order to assimilate and begin a relationship with our new animal friends.
Runs the 17th May
Link to eventWeleda: Plant Dreaming Workshop
This workshop run by local artist Lucy Voelker and set on the beautiful Weleda gardens in Shipley, focuses on seeking a dialogue with nature and specifically plants. The workshop will offer guidance to help tap into your senses and imagination in order to meet your chosen plant or tree. Time will be given to share impressions and revisit experiences, including taking note of the weather and season in all their guises.
Runs the 18th May
Link to eventArnica: Plant Study Day & Exploration of its Power Event by Weleda
Two separate events over two days around the theme of the Arnica plant, and its unique power for pain relief and healing. The plant study day will focus on using the ideas of Goethe to discover Arnica’s ‘personality’, showing how the plants therapeutic utility can be seen through the way it grows. On day two join experts as they examine Arnica's natural healing power, experience its therapeutic qualities first hand, & understand Arnica as more than a remedy tapping into its wisdom for holistic wellbeing. Workshops held at the Poyntzfield Herb Nursery in Dingwell.
Runs the 23rd & 24th of May
Link to eventBiodynamic 100: Transforming Land, Transforming Lives
A conference and research weekend with panels led by biodynamic practitioners and the BDA and hosted at The Field Centre in Nailsworth, Gloucestershire. Speakers include Ueli Hurter agricultural lead at the Goetheanum; Gabriel Kaye, Executive Director of the BDA & Aonghus Gordon OBE, founder of the Ruskin Mill Trust. Topics will range from food production to social pedagogy.
Runs the 24th to 26th of May
Link to event or to book your place email: Pippa.Hunt@rmt.org
June
Waltham Place: Biodynamic Centenary Walking Talk
We invite you to an evening celebrating 100 years since Steiner delivered the 8 lectures of the Agriculture Course. Biodynamic gardener Andre Tranquilini will lead this tour of the estate, bringing statements from Steiner's lectures alive in beautiful natural surroundings.
Runs the 7th of June
Link to eventNorthern Biodynamic Group: Spraying Events
Group spraying of 500 & 501 on the Botton Village farms. A great opportunity to spray together whilst holding each other in mind and planting seeds of intention for a bright future.
500 on June 14th at 3pm & 501 on July 26th at 6am
Link to eventWaltham Place: Climate Friendly Gardening
In this workshop the Waltham gardening team will share climate friendly solutions to create resilience for your garden and its crops. Adapting the way we grow has the potential to mitigate the effects of climate change, support wildlife, & develop healthy soil & resilient plants. Come along and learn from experienced practitioners!
Runs the 15th June
Link to eventFarming for the Future, Today
The BDA & Yatesbury Farm have the pleasure of hosting this event on caring for our soil, bringing together key stakeholders across the organic and biodynamic movement at Yatesbury. Attendees include DEFRA, the Soil Association and many more. Attendance by invitation only.
Runs the 19th June 10am-4.30pm
Contact email: office@biodynamic.org.uk
Members Assembly at the Birthplace and 100 year Birthday of Biodynamics
To Commentate 100 years since the lectures on Biodynamic Agriculture were given, the Biodynamic Demeter International Federation is gathering for a centenary event in situ, at Koberwitz, now in Poland. Steiner delivered the eight lectures there in the jubilant mood of Whitsun.
Run 24th to 27th of June
Groundswell Festival
Groundswell Regenerative Agriculture festival based on the Lannock Manor Farm in Hertfordshire provides farmers, growers, or just anyone interested in environmentally balanced and regenerative farming with a forum to learn its theory and practical applications. The BDA will have a stand.
Runs the 26th & 27th of June
Link to eventJuly
Waltham Place: Raw Milk Day
An experiential day focused on exploring the role of livestock in biodynamic agriculture, with an emphasis on the role cattle play at Waltham Place. Come along to understand how livestock shape the environment of the farm, join the team for a milking session, and explore the reason Waltham has opted to run a raw milk micro dairy and the milks nutritional benefits.
Runs the 13th of July
Link to eventAugust
Devon Group: Commemoration of Steiner's Life & Work
A daily exhibit will be held at the Birdwood House Gallery commemorating Steiner’s 1924 visit to Torquay & displaying art and craft work inspired by Anthroposophy. Furthermore, on the 17th there will be presentations at the Civic Hall on the 12 practical aspects of Steiner’s work, a second-hand book sale and a film showing on Steiner’s work. Entry is free. Outside will be stands selling biodynamic products led by the BDA & the Apricot Centre with support from the Biodynamic Land Trust. The BDA will be present on Saturday the 17th.
Runs the 12th to 17th of August
Wholistic Living University Summer Gathering
We are celebrating with online and workshop participants – old and new – laying the seeds for the future. An opportunity to celebrate with kindred spirits 100 years of the biodynamic and organic movement – visioning together the future of Earth custodianship.
Runs the 23rd to 25th of Aug
For more information contact: hans-gunther@wholisticliving.co.uk
Link to eventPhone mobile UK: 0044 (0)78 52 91 74 97
Jean Michel Florin at Steiner House: How can biodynamics meet the challenges facing humanity?
This event hosted at the Rudolf Steiner House in London in cooperation with the Waltham Place, will host the famous co-leader of the Section for Agriculture at the Goetheanum. The event will begin with a reception from 6pm and an exhibition on the great current biodynamic research successes. This will be followed by a one of kind lecture from Jean Michel, a trailblazer in the field of biodynamics research, focusing on how biodynamics can mitigate the multitude of issues facing our generation and humanity.
Event runs 30th of Aug
Link to eventEating as an Art: 100 years of Biodynamic food quality
Steinbeisser will bring renowned chefs Selassie Atadika and Elif Oskan to the Goetheanum in Dornach, Switzerland. They will create a special plant-based tasting menu to commemorate the centenary using only biodynamic produce from the Goetheanum Garden. Expect an evening of eclectic tastes from these two celebrated chefs hailing from ‘New African’ and ‘Anatolian’ cuisines respectively.
Runs 30th & 31st of August
Link to eventWaltham Place Evening Lecture: Biodynamics and the Changing Climate with Jean-Michel Florin
A lecture by the esteemed co-leader of the Agricultural Section at the Goetheanum focusing on how to develop a living relationship with the elements through working on the land. The question to ask? What is happening to our earth, and how can biodynamic agriculture and landscape design help promote a healthy landscape and mitigate natural disasters.
Runs the 31st of August
Link to eventWaltham Place: Building your landscape, from observation to development, with Jean-Michel Florin
Jean Michel Florin welcomes guests for a weekend workshop focused on understanding the landscape as the origin and source of biodynamic production. By viewing the landscape as a living ‘organism’ we can discover its specific nature and find direction for its planning and development. This course will instruct on using an active sensory approach to perceive the landscape in its diversity & how to use these in-depth observations to understand the lands evolution and pathways to development, in line with local terrain.
Runs the 31st Aug & 1st of Sept
Link to eventSeptember
Waltham Place: Seed Saving Workshop
Seeds are a crucial issue in the fight for food sovereignty and against climate change, in the face of falling seed diversity and quality it is imperative to reconnect with process of harvesting seeds that are natural and adapted to a changing climate. Join estate manager, Andre Tranquilini for this step-by-step workshop to learn how to select, harvest, dry, clean and store your seeds while obtaining the best seed quality.
Runs the 27th of September
Link to event
October
The Ruskin Mill Trust: Harvest Celebration
This event in celebration of harvest will be an opportunity to bring along and share in the fruits of harvest at a meal hosted on the beautiful ground of Clervaux. This will be followed by a Eurythmy performance and a forum focusing on the work of Hugo Erbe, and the Harmonizing Preparation. The event will conclude with a focus on looking to the future and what can be done to increase the vibrancy of the biodynamics movement.
Runs the 5th of October
For further information email: enquiries@rmt.org
The Biodynamic Land Trust: Farm Organism Finances Workshop
The Biodynamic Land trust partners with Triodos Bank for this workshop aimed at farmers and land workers, educating on new ways of understanding farm finances: what pays, what works, and where changes can be made. For many it can be challenging and complex to understand the details that lead to decision making in mixed farming systems. Join Marcus Link of New Foundations Farms, Bob Mehew of the Apricot Centre & members of the Triodos agriculture team as they seek to bring clarity to farm finances.
222Runs the 11th October
Link to eventBiodynamic Land Trust: Family of Farms Event & AGM.
The day will start with the AGM, where the directors will present reports on the activities and progress of the Biodynamic Land Trust this year. The AGM is open to all. Subsequently, the Family of Farms event after the AGM will be a collaborative, sharing and learning process around the theme of ‘succession’. The structure of the day will revolve around presentations from the farms sharing their perspective on the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for succession. There will also be specialist’s present to guide discussion around the presentations and show how succession can be successful in different contexts and regions.
Runs the 12th of October
Link to eventNovember
Natoora International: Producers and Processors Workshop
This workshop in Waltham Place’s beautiful grounds in Berkshire brings together Natoora & the BDA, in support of biodynamic and organic growers. The Biodynamic Association is proud to offer this one-day practical workshop on direct grower-supplier relationships, harnessing alternative routes to market and boosting consumer education to shift demand towards higher quality and sustainable produce. Natoora is a fruit and vegetable wholesaler, specialising in sourcing radically seasonal produce from small-scale producers across the UK, Europe, USA and Melbourne. The workshop takes place in the centrally located and beautiful grounds of Waltham Place in Maidenhead, Berkshire. p>
Runs the 8th of November
Details soon to follow and please register your interest by emailing projects@biodynamic.org.uk
Centenary Celebration: Showcasing Food and Biodynamic Awards
Together with the Anthroposophical Society of Great Britain, the Biodynamic Association, invites you to celebrate 100 years of biodynamics at Rudolf Steiner House on Sunday 10th November. The event will commence at 2pm with a showcase of delicious healthy food and products, in honour of the contribution of biodynamics, past, present and future to the wholistic wellbeing of soils and planet. Biodynamic exhibits, produce market stalls, tastings, and mini talks, will be followed at 5:00 p.m. by a finale honouring 100 stars of biodynamics past and present in the Biodynamic 100 Awards celebration.
Event runs the 10th of November
Details soon to follow and please register your interest by emailing projects@biodynamic.org.uk
You Are Invited to an Exclusive Webinar with ' The Barefoot Biodynamic Farmer' Jeff Poppen from U.S.A
"BAREFOOT BIODYNAMICS" - How Cows, Compost, and Community Help Us Understand Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Course
£16.46 Chelsea Green Publishing
Join us for a special online event featuring Jeff Poppen, a legendary figure in the biodynamic farming movement, as we celebrate one of the gifts honouring the Biodynamic Centenary in 2024. This intimate discussion will offer a unique opportunity to engage directly with Jeff, followed by an interactive question and answer session. Not to be missed for the latest on the practice of biodynamic. With decades of knowledge and proven, common-sense methods from “The Barefoot Farmer,” this practical guide to biodynamic principles and practices will appeal to growers of every scale and experience level.
This is a by donation event, allowing everyone to participate regardless of their financial situation, with your generous support.As a token of appreciation, all participants will receive a 30 % discount code to purchased this title from our bookshop. Reserve Your Spot!
Link to eventDate: Wednesday the 27th of November 2024
Time: 19:30 GMT - 3:30 EDT
December
Discover the Future of Biodynamics!
We invite you to an insightful webinar centered around a Trilogy of groundbreaking books published to welcome the the next century of biodynamic farming, with cutting-edge insight, guidance, wisdom, within the present context of the biodynamic movement globally. Join us as we delve into these essential texts, each authored by prominent figures in the field:
- Biodynamic Farming Handbook: Activating Soil Fertility for Growing Healthy Food by John Bradshaw - Hawthorn Press £29.99
A distinguished Australian author with over 50 years in biodynamic practices, dedicated to making biodynamic farming accessible to all. - A New Translation of Rudolf Steiner's Agricultural Lectures by Simon Blaxland-de Lang
Rudolf Steiner Press £30.00
A translator and educator, known for his work on making Rudolf Steiner's teachings more accessible to modern audiences - From the Agriculture Course to Sustainable Farming
100 Years of the Biodynamic Movement by Rudi Bind and Ueli Hurter: An in-depth examination of the origins of biodynamic agriculture, its growth into a worldwide movement and its continuing impact. Floris Books £14.99
This is a by donation event, allowing everyone to participate regardless of their financial situation. As a token of appreciation, all participants will receive a discount code for products that promote biodynamics and foster health and wellbeing for both individuals and the planet. Available soon from our bookshop.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to start the Next Biodynamic Century with inspiration and knowledge that can transform your approach to farming and wellness.
Link to event4th December 2024 7.30pm
April
NOPEX
The BDA was at the Natural & Organic Products Expo (NOPEX) – sharing a stand with Clearspring. NOPEX had its best year yet with over 600 exhibitions from 74 countries displaying over ten thousand different products.
May
Engaging with Nature, Self and Spirit with Susan Raven- SOLD OUT
A workshop on using the 6 basic exercises expounded by Rudolf Steiner to engage with life as a pathway of development as connection. Led by Susan Raven a long time student of Anthroposophy and experienced workshop coordinator, the workshop focuses on how to build a mutually beneficial line of communication with nature spirits and the benefits to this relationship.
Runs the 18th & 19th of May
Biodynamic 100: Transforming Land, Transforming Lives
A conference and research weekend with panels led by biodynamic practitioners and the BDA and hosted at The Field Centre in Nailsworth, Gloucestershire. Speakers include Ueli Hurter agricultural lead at the Goetheanum; Gabriel Kaye, Executive Director of the BDA & Aonghus Gordon OBE, founder of the Ruskin Mill Trust. Topics will range from food production to social pedagogy.
Link to eventor to book your place email: Pippa.Hunt@rmt.org
Runs the 24th to 26th of May
June
Farming for the Future, Today
The BDA & Triodos Bank have the pleasure of hosting this event on caring for our soil, bringing together key stakeholders across the organic and biodynamic movement at Yatesbury. Attendees include DEFRA, the Soil Association and many more. Attendance by invitation only.
For further information email: office@biodynamic.org.uk
Runs the 19th June 10am-4.30pm
July
August
Jean Michel Florin at Steiner House: How can biodynamics meet the challenges facing humanity?
This event hosted at the Rudolf Steiner House in London in cooperation with the Waltham Place, will host the famous co-leader of the Section for Agriculture at the Goetheanum. The event will begin with a reception from 6pm and an exhibition on the great current biodynamic research successes. This will be followed by a one of kind lecture from Jean Michel, a trailblazer in the field of biodynamics research, focusing on how biodynamics can mitigate the multitude of issues facing our generation and humanity.
Link to eventEvent runs 30th of Aug
Details soon to follow and please register your interest by emailing projects@biodynamic.org.uk
Waltham Place Evening Lecture: Biodynamics and the Changing Climate with Jean-Michel Florin
A lecture by the esteemed co-leader of the Agricultural Section at the Goetheanum focusing on how to develop a living relationship with the elements through working on the land. The question to ask? What is happening to our earth, and how can biodynamic agriculture and landscape design help promote a healthy landscape and mitigate natural disasters.
Link to eventRuns the 31st of August
Waltham Place: Building your landscape, from observation to development, with Jean-Michel Florin
Jean Michel Florin welcomes guests for a weekend workshop focused on understanding the landscape as the origin and source of biodynamic production. By viewing the landscape as a living ‘organism’ we can discover its specific nature and find direction for its planning and development. This course will instruct on using an active sensory approach to perceive the landscape in its diversity & how to use these in-depth observations to understand the lands evolution and pathways to development, in line with local terrain.
Link to eventRuns the 31st Aug & 1st of Sept
September
October
Biodynamic Preparations Workshop
This workshop by the BDA will address all things Biodynamic Preparations, including the benefits of preparations, the frequency they should be used, optimal making and using conditions, in addition to higher level consideration including working as sensory organs for the earth and the farm as an organism. This event will be hosted on the Ruskin Mill centre at Clervaux Farm, Darlington.
For further information email: office@biodynamic.org.uk
Runs the 18th to 20th of October
November
Natoora International: Producers and Processors Workshop
This workshop in Waltham Place’s beautiful grounds in Berkshire brings together Natoora & the BDA, in support of biodynamic and organic growers. The Biodynamic Association is proud to offer this one-day practical workshop on direct grower-supplier relationships, harnessing alternative routes to market and boosting consumer education to shift demand towards higher quality and sustainable produce.
Natoora is a fruit and vegetable wholesaler, specialising in sourcing radically seasonal produce from small-scale producers across the UK, Europe, USA and Melbourne. The workshop takes place in the centrally located and beautiful grounds of Waltham Place in Maidenhead, Berkshire.
Link to eventRuns the 8th of November
Centenary Celebration, Showcasing Food and Biodynamic Awards
Together with the Anthroposophical Society of Great Britain, the Biodynamic Association, invites you to celebrate 100 years of Biodynamics at Rudolf Steiner House on Sunday 10th November, starting at 2pm with a showcase of delicious healthy food and products, in honour of the contribution of biodynamics, past, present and future to the wholistic wellbeing of soils and planet. Biodynamic exhibits, produce market stalls, tastings, and mini talks, will be followed at 5:00 p.m. by a finale honouring 100 stars of biodynamics past and present in the Biodynamic 100 Awards celebration.
Details soon to follow and please register your interest by emailing projects@biodynamic.org.uk
Event runs the 10th of November.
You Are Invited to an Exclusive Webinar with ' The Barefoot Biodynamic Farmer' Jeff Poppen from U.S.A
"BAREFOOT BIODYNAMICS" - How Cows, Compost, and Community Help Us Understand Rudolf Steiner’s Agriculture Course
£16.46 Chelsea Green Publishing
Join us for a special online event featuring Jeff Poppen, a legendary figure in the biodynamic farming movement, as we celebrate one of the gifts honouring the Biodynamic Centenary in 2024. This intimate discussion will offer a unique opportunity to engage directly with Jeff, followed by an interactive question and answer session. Not to be missed for the latest on the practice of biodynamic. With decades of knowledge and proven, common-sense methods from “The Barefoot Farmer,” this practical guide to biodynamic principles and practices will appeal to growers of every scale and experience level.
This is a by donation event, allowing everyone to participate regardless of their financial situation, with your generous support.As a token of appreciation, all participants will receive a 30 % discount code to purchased this title from our bookshop. Reserve Your Spot!
Link to eventDate: Wednesday the 27th of November 2024
Time: 19:30 GMT - 3:30 EDT
December
Discover the Future of Biodynamics!
We invite you to an insightful webinar centered around a Trilogy of groundbreaking books published to welcome the the next century of biodynamic farming, with cutting-edge insight, guidance, wisdom, within the present context of the biodynamic movement globally. Join us as we delve into these essential texts, each authored by prominent figures in the field:
- Biodynamic Farming Handbook: Activating Soil Fertility for Growing Healthy Food by John Bradshaw - Hawthorn Press £29.99
A distinguished Australian author with over 50 years in biodynamic practices, dedicated to making biodynamic farming accessible to all. - A New Translation of Rudolf Steiner's Agricultural Lectures by Simon Blaxland-de Lang
Rudolf Steiner Press £30.00
A translator and educator, known for his work on making Rudolf Steiner's teachings more accessible to modern audiences - From the Agriculture Course to Sustainable Farming
100 Years of the Biodynamic Movement by Rudi Bind and Ueli Hurter: An in-depth examination of the origins of biodynamic agriculture, its growth into a worldwide movement and its continuing impact. Floris Books £14.99
This is a by donation event, allowing everyone to participate regardless of their financial situation. As a token of appreciation, all participants will receive a discount code for products that promote biodynamics and foster health and wellbeing for both individuals and the planet. Available soon from our bookshop.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to start the Next Biodynamic Century with inspiration and knowledge that can transform your approach to farming and wellness.
Link to event4th December 2024 7.30pm
April
May
The Biodynamic 100: Transforming Land, Transforming Lives
A conference and research weekend with panels led by biodynamic practitioners and the BDA and hosted at The Field Centre in Nailsworth, Gloucestershire. Speakers include Ueli Hurter agricultural lead at the Goetheanum; Gabriel Kaye, Executive Director of the BDA & Aonghus Gordon OBE, founder of the Ruskin Mill Trust. Topics will range from food production to social pedagogy.
Runs the 24th to 26th of May
For further information email: enquiries@rmt.org.
June
Groundswell Festival.
Groundswell Regenerative Agriculture festival based on the Lannock Manor Farm in Hertfordshire provides farmers, growers, or just anyone interested in environmentally balanced and regenerative farming with a forum to learn its theory and practical applications. The BDA will have and stand.
Runs the 26th & 27th of June
Link to event
July
August
Devon Group: Commemoration of Steiner's Life & Work
A daily exhibit will be held at the Birdwood House Gallery commemorating Steiner’s 1924 visit to Torquay & displaying art and craft work inspired by Anthroposophy. Furthermore, on the 17th there will be presentations at the Civic Hall on the 12 practical aspects of Steiner’s work, a second-hand book sale and a film showing on Steiner’s work. Entry is free. Outside will be stands selling biodynamic products led by the BDA & the Apricot Centre with support from the Biodynamic Land Trust. The BDA will be present on Saturday the 17th.
Runs the 12th to 17th of August
Wholistic Living University Summer Gathering
We are celebrating with online and workshop participants – old and new – laying the seeds for the future. An opportunity to celebrate with kindred spirits 100 years of the biodynamic and organic movement – visioning together the future of Earth custodianship.
Runs the 23rd to 25th of Aug
For more information contact: hans-gunther@wholisticliving.co.uk
Link to eventPhone mobile UK: 0044 (0)78 52 91 74 97
September
Waltham Place: Seed Saving Workshop
Seeds are a crucial issue in the fight for food sovereignty and against climate change, in the face of falling seed diversity and quality it is imperative to reconnect with process of harvesting seeds that are natural and adapted to a changing climate. Join estate manager, Andre Tranquilini for this step-by-step workshop to learn how to select, harvest, dry, clean and store your seeds while obtaining the best seed quality.
Runs the 27th of September
Link to eventCelebrating the Biodynamic Centenary at Home Farm, Heckfield Place, Hampshire
This summer, Heckfileld Place is marking the centenary of biodynamic farming with a series of events across our 438-acre estate. Visitors to Home Farm will have the opportunity to engage with the 100 year old principles and practices of the original organic movement and learn about the many benefits to the health of the soil and to ourselves.
From workshops on biodynamic practices and talks from industry leaders who share in our ethos that everything begins with the soil, join us from June to September as we mark this milestone and look to the future of responsible and regenerative agriculture.
The event lineup will extend up to the house, with movie screenings and celebratory suppers hosted by Heckfield Place. Events are at Home Farm, Heckfield Place, Hampshire RG27 0LD
- Saturday 7 September Dahlia Talk with Jane Scotter & Alice Chapman
- Saturday 21st September Biodynamic Planting Calendar with Tom Petherick
- Saturday 21 September The Biggest Little Farm
- Sunday 22 September Home Farm Lunch: Time of Harvest
Link to bookings:
Follow us on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter to be among the first to secure tickets as each booking window opens.
October
The Biodynamic Land Trust: Farm Organism Finances Workshop
The Biodynamic Land trust partners with Triodos Bank for this workshop aimed at farmers and land workers, educating on new ways of understanding farm finances: what pays, what works, and where changes can be made. For many it can be challenging and complex to understand the details that lead to decision making in mixed farming systems. Join Marcus Link of New Foundations Farms, Bob Mehew of the Apricot Centre & members of the Triodos agriculture team as the seek to bring clarity to farm finances.
Runs the 11th October
Link to eventNovember
Natoora International: Producers and Processors Workshop
This workshop in Waltham Place’s beautiful grounds in Berkshire brings together Natoora & the BDA, in support of biodynamic and organic growers. The Biodynamic Association is proud to offer this one-day practical workshop on direct grower-supplier relationships, harnessing alternative routes to market and boosting consumer education to shift demand towards higher quality and sustainable produce. Natoora is a fruit and vegetable wholesaler, specialising in sourcing radically seasonal produce from small-scale producers across the UK, Europe, USA and Melbourne. The workshop takes place in the centrally located and beautiful grounds of Waltham Place in Maidenhead, Berkshire.
Runs the 8th of November
December
The 12 Benefits of Biodynamics
1
Regenerative and self-sustaining
One of the main principles of biodynamic farming is to give back more to the land than we take from it, aiming not only for sustainability, but striving for the regeneration of the land. As everything starts with the soil, the key is found in its regeneration. Only if we take care of our soil in a holistic way can we fully regenerate it. Thus, instead of basing the farm solely on efficiency, biodynamics starts by asking how it can help the land and bring the soil back to life.
This regenerative approach goes hand in hand with the aim for each biodynamic and Demeter farm to be self-sufficient. Farmers use as few external inputs as they can and if they need anything brought into the farm, they work in collaboration with other biodynamic farmers. In this way, biodynamic and Demeter farmers are resilient and don’t depend on anything bought in from the agrochemical industry.
It’s the whole approach that makes biodynamic farming self-sustaining and regenerative: the care for the soil, the presence of animals, the choice of adapted and diverse seeds, the farm organism in its entirety, etc. Diversity is the key: the farm always strives to integrate a diversity of microorganisms, plants, and animals, both wild and cultivated. By focusing on regeneration and on self-sufficiency, biodynamic farmers seek to practice agriculture in harmony with nature.
2
Working in harmony with nature
Biodynamic farming is about working hand in hand with nature. The reason for this is simple: in nature everything is mutually connected and interacting. Biodynamic farming ensures that all natural elements – the soil, the plants, the animals, and the humans – can develop and grow together in harmony.
Just as everything works together in nature as one organism biodynamic farming considers the farm as a living organism composed many parts (various soil types, animals, trees, etc.). All these elements are integral parts of the farm and must be managed together to ensure the well-being of the whole. This is why only a whole farm can convert to the biodynamic model under Demeter standards.
While farming and nature conservation often find themselves in opposition, biodynamics brings them together. By working with a holistic approach biodynamic farming cares for nature, preserving and nurturing it, and through balance brings benefits to the farms cultivated elements.
3
Living and fertile soils
Soil fertility is key. It is the foundation for good quality products, our health and of course for the well-being of our planet. Biodynamics focuses not only on food production, but on the resilience of the farm itself through improving soil quality, giving back as well as taking from the earth as part of its holistic approach.
Increased natural soil fertility is achieved through appropriate cultivation, animal husbandry and fertilisation. The aim of fertilisation is primarily to build up humus and thereby create soil fertility from which plants are nourished. The humus layer provides a source of nutrients for plants, regulates the air and heat balance of the soil, and binds CO2. All these elements are crucial for food production, but they also play a crucial role for the climate through the carbon sequestration of living and fertile soils. Biodynamics thus mitigates climate change and highlights the role farming can play in combatting it.
Biodynamics works consistently to enliven the soils through compost applications, animal and green manures, crop rotations, appropriate tillage, cover crops, and fodder plants. Each of these serves a different purpose - clover grass, for example, binds nitrogen from the air into the soil – but all of them foster the farm’s resilience and self-sufficiency.
4
Healthy plants
Healthy plants are essential as a source of nutrition for animals, human beings, and soils. Not only do they ensure food in its best quality, but they are also a reflection of the farm itself. Vital and vibrant plants reflect the farm’s own vitality while unhealthy plants indicate problems to resolve on the farm. In biodynamics, caring for the plants is caring for the whole.
Biodynamic farming help’s plants develop in a healthy and balanced way, access the full spectrum of nutrients they need, and become more resilient to pests, diseases, and extreme climate conditions. To strengthen the plants’ health and vitality biodynamic farmers follow management practices such as the build-up of vital and fertile soils, the promotion of biodiverse environments, the use of the biodynamic preparations, and the choice of diverse and adapted seeds.
The use of biodynamic preparations is characteristic of all Demeter and biodynamic farms. They are vitalising additions for soil and plants which act as a sort of remedy for the earth, enhancing the growth and quality of the plants. Preparations increase soil life, promote fertility, and in turn support stronger, more robust, pest and disease resistant plants. They come in two forms: compost and spray preparations.
5
Biodiversity
Biodiversity is at the heart of biodynamic farming. Preserving biodiversity is not only important for farming, but also to ensure food security as most insects are intimately connected to food production, with 75% of food crops relying on animal pollination for fertilization.
This is why the Demeter standard stipulates that at least 10% of farmland must be left wild or dedicated to biodiversity. Through good management and conservation practices such as crop rotations, polyculture, virgin forests, long-term grasslands, water bodies, insect and bird shelters, and wildlife protection biodynamic farming protects enhances biodiversity. In short, farms seek enhance symbiosis with nature.
Biodynamic farmers seek balance and integration between wild and cultivated species, bringing the best out of each. The results speak for themselves: 35% more birds, 23% more insects and more soil organisms such as earthworms and ground beetles are found in organic and biodynamic farmland.
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Climate Action
Biodynamic farming recognizes the central role agriculture plays in the preservation of our planet´s resources and in tackling climate change. While agriculture contributes substantially to greenhouse gas emissions, it also has substantial potential to reduce and even reverse emissions. Biodynamic farming commits to addressing the ecological crises affecting our world - such as soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, pollution – contributing to the combat of climate change.
Healthy soil is crucial, by building up a humus layer through crop rotations, animal or green manure, or cover crops, CO2 emissions are bound and carbon fixed in the soil. The absence of chemical nitrogen fertilizers and pesticides in biodynamic farming contributes further to climate mitigation since their production and use leads to even more emissions.
Biodynamic farming avoids the use of fossil fuels and non-renewable resources and focuses on the protection of high value conservation areas from cultivation. Aware of the growing dryness around the world, the Demeter standards promote responsible use and sourcing of water resources to avoid erosion and salination of soils.
Our climate action stretches from field management to the packaging of Demeter products. Packaging must meet the best available environmental practices, following the example of some Demeter banana producers engaged in plastic-free farming. On those farms the use of plastic is reduced by more than 703,68kg/hectare/year of plastic waste per hectare per year.
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Animal Welfare
Animals, especially cows, play a key role in biodynamic farms by providing the manure that increases soil fertility. Thus, it is mandatory for Demeter certified farms to have their own animals or if not possible to cooperate with another farm to ensure access to animal manure. In all cases responsibility for animal welfare must be the priority.
Biodynamic farmers respect and look after their animals’ wellbeing in every way. It starts with choosing the right breed, suited to the farm and the environment, feeding the appropriate fodder, and ensuring the animals have enough space to live naturally. Crucially the Demeter standard doesn’t allow mutilations which is why all cows keep their horns.
Biodynamic farming also requires keeping a diversity of domesticated and wild animal species on the farm. While domestic animals, such as cattle, are key to ensuring soil fertility through manure, wild animals are crucial for pollination and natural pest control.
Conclusively, animal husbandry is about caring for all animals on the farm to ensure the farm’s health, self-sufficiency, and resilience.
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Seed and breed diversity
GMOs and their associated patents further concentrate the ownership of seeds in the hands of a few companies, who increase chemical input to combat more resistant pests. The use of GMOs is thus strictly prohibited by the Demeter standard. Instead, free access to genetic resources and the preservation of genetic diversity for the future generations stands at the forefront.
To foster seed diversity and to avoid the concentration of seed ownership, Demeter was the first organic association to develop guidelines for plant breeding and to certify biodynamically bred seed and grain varieties. In biodynamic plant breeding the focus lies on open-pollinated varieties, fostering the natural means by which plants reproduce and exchange characteristics from generation to generation. Therefore, biodynamic varieties have a higher genetic diversity and ensure the farmer’s sovereignty by enabling them to keep their own seeds, instead of purchasing new ones every year as is the case with hybrid varieties.
What can be observed with plant breeding is also the case in animal breeding. Many locally adapted and robust breeds have already disappeared accelerating the decrease of available breeds. Biodynamic farming tries to encourage breeding diversity to make sure that the animals are resilient and adapted to the local environment. Going one step further several Demeter farmers are now working actively with multi-purpose breeds rather than relying on the specialised high-performance breeds. As the name suggests, multi-purpose breeds can be used for many purposes. Dual-purpose chickens for instance, can both be used as layer hens and as broiler chickens which avoids the killing of the male chicks in the case of layer hens.
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Food quality
Biodynamic farming always strives for the best food quality, with Demeter assuring the quality of all biodynamic products. To ensure biodynamic practices provide conditions for plants and animals to thrive, the Demeter standards are checked and developed regularly. They build on organic certification but are more rigorous, aiming to provide premium quality products.
The integrity of Demeter products continues through the entire value chain. Oils and grains are, for instance, pressed with low temperatures to avoid loss of flavour and nutritional benefits. Milk may be pasteurised but not homogenised, and herbs and spices are traded whole or only coarsely chopped to avoid loss of etheric oils. Processes are gentle to maintain or enhance the vitality of foods.
Demeter food strives to be authentic, so no artificial ingredients are allowed; additives and processing aids are kept to an absolute minimum and are always declared on the label. All raw materials and ingredients for production and processing alike are protected from potential sources of contamination and Demeter certified where possible. We choose quality and freshness over intense production processes and price-reducing chemical inputs
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Human development
Biodynamic farming considers human development as connected with animals, plants, and the environment, with the potential for human development connected to that of the wider ecosystem. Human development goes together with the farm development. Thus, biodynamic farming follows the one health approach which recognizes that human health is linked and interdependent with our environment. Human empowerment and development are at the core of biodynamic farming. In this regard, learning, training, and knowledge exchange are fundamental. These activities have a long history in biodynamic farming as farming is a continuous learning and improving process. It requires constant adaptation to external constraints such as varying climatic conditions or different soil types. But biodynamic farmers also aim further, striving to make their farms more resilient and sustainable while at the same time ensuring economic viability.
To support further human development, biodynamic farming encourages collaboration at farm level. Animals can, for instance, be held in partnership between farmers which enables all farms to benefit from animal presence and to share responsibility. Not only do farmers gain in efficiency, but the collaborations are a key to encouraging knowledge exchange and development.
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Social responsibility
At the heart of biodynamic farming lies a deep desire for social justice, respect, and empowerment, achieved through the fair working conditions and social responsibility assured by Demeter. This includes equal opportunity regardless of ethnic background and gender, and healthy and safe working conditions. To strengthen the importance of social responsibility, a separate Social Responsibility Standard has been introduced by the Federation. The Social Responsibility Standard is an agreement on the minimum requirements that a biodynamically managed farm must meet to receive its Demeter recognition. However, it is only a minimum requirement. Biodynamic farming expects constant development and the aim to go beyond the minimum. In this sense, Demeter operators are expected to strive for above the average work conditions, and a positive and fair social relationship with the surrounding community.
The biodynamic and Demeter movement also tries to ensure fair trading practices across the globe among the operators. To ensure fair prices and fairness along the whole supply chain Demeter relies on binding cooperation with all its retail partners and with every Demeter trader.
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Resilient economic relationships
Biodynamic farming commits to cooperation by building resilient economic relationships with all actors from the field to the plate. Strong and long-term relationships are crucial for farmers as they need to ensure the economic viability of their farm for themselves and those they work with.
To ensure collaboration in trading relationships, the Demeter and biodynamic movement engage in ‘associative economics’ . This means that all stakeholders along the value chain come together to discuss the current state of market. Farmers, processors, retailers, and consumer representations associate by exchanging views on the quality of their commercial relationships. Among other topics they discuss production conditions, growing methods, processing procedures and most important of all fair prices. Instead of maximising profits on, they strive for a cooperation that is good for all commercial partners.
Another way to achieve further cooperation is through the model of ‘community supported agriculture’ (CSA). CSA supports local agriculture and strengthens the relationships between farmers and consumers. CSA provides farmers with a reliable source of income and enables them to share the risks linked to farming with the community. Through shared responsibility and engagement CSAs create truly resilient economic relationships paving the way to another economic model.