Farm | Biodynamic Association

Farm

Biodynamic farming aims to produce the most delicious, health-full and nutritious foods possible for everyone - and to do this in ways that not only protect and safeguard the environment and our precious natural resources, but which regenerate our soils and lands. It’s a farming system where the health and vitality of soils, plants, animals, people and our earth is paramount; and where developing the potential of the farm rather than maximizing output is the goal.

For more about biodynamic farming and practices, see the discovery page.

How does biodynamic farming differ from organic farming?

All biodynamic farmers and growers practice organic methods of production, and share very similar certification standards. Both also share similar aims and ideals, but biodynamics has metaphysical and spiritual roots that organics does not.

It is this that makes biodynamics distinctively different in both its approach to agriculture, and its farming practices.

The main differences between biodynamic and organic farming standards are:

The farm is viewed differently
In biodynamic agriculture the farm (or holding) is considered to have its own identity and be a self- sustaining organism in its own right. A fundamental principle which a biodynamic farm works towards is thus to be a 'closed loop' system that does not need to buy in feed or fertility from external suppliers, or one that is stretched beyond its natural capacity. To find out more, click here, to read an article about converting to biodynamics
Compost is king
The use of home made compost (and manures) enlivened with biodynamic herbal preparations is obligatory and unique to biodynamic farming. To find out more, click here.
Biodynamic farmers have a tool box of natural remedies to support their farms
The use of biodynamic herbal and mineral preparations to improve the health and vitality of land and crops is also unique to biodynamic farming. To find out more, click here.
Biodynamic farmers often use a planting calendar
Though not obligatory, a biodynamic astronomical calendar is can be consulted to help assess optimum times for sowing, planting etc. To find out more, click here.
Biodynamic farmers do not de-horn their cattle
Dehorning cattle is forbidden in biodynamic (Demeter) standards; as is the use of organophosphate (OP) insecticides to control sheep scab.

Seeing is believing

There are many profoundly inspiring biodynamic farms and smallholdings. Click below to see for yourself…

Plaw Hatch

Fern Verrow

Tablehurst Farm

You can view the film about Tablehurst Farm here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DajiMsxqWnk

Biodynamic wine

More and more of the world’s best winemakers are converting to biodynamic methods in their vineyards. So much so, that currently there are over 600 Demeter certified biodynamic vineyards. These include over 250 in France and Italy, 75 in Germany, over 40 in Switzerland, 49 in New Zealand, and even as far as Brazil, which boasts 2 biodynamic vineyards. The UK currently has 7 vineyards including the aware winning Sedlescombe, East Sussex, Ancre Hills in Monouthshire & Albury, in Surrey.

The reason is that winemakers interested in producing top quality wines, all share the same mission and ultimate challenge: to create wines that express what the French call terroir - a unique sense of place or ‘somewhereness’.

It is only when a wine expresses its terroir - the heart and soul - of its land and captures that magical and elusive sense of place that it becomes truly individual and truly great. One other essential ingredient is required: that of the deep connection between the winemaker and his/her grapes, a connection which goes far beyond its methods of production. As winemakers are discovering, biodynamic methods achieve all this and more.

A more in-depth look at biodynamic grape growing:

The Basics of Biodynamic Viticulture

BD Wine in the News

Becoming a biodynamic farmer

Farmers who are already certified organic farmers can convert to biodynamic farming usually within a year or so. Farmers new to organic or biodynamic farming generally undergo a 3 year conversion period.

To find out how to become a certified biodynamic farmer or grower, click here. To learn more about Demeter (biodynamic) standards:

Tel: 01453 766296

Email: certification@biodynamic.org.uk


Job vacancies

We advertise vacancies for biodynamic farmers, growers and gardeners here.

Articles

Working with Soil, by Peter Brown , click here

Rooting for Change, by Peter Brown, click here

Converting your farm to biodynamics, by Timothy Brink, click here.

Biodynamics - a promising road to tomorrow's sustainable agriculture , click here.

Soil and Light, by Dr. Richard Thornton Smith , click here.