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:
Seeing is believing
There are many profoundly inspiring biodynamic farms and smallholdings. Click below to see for yourself…
You can view the film about Tablehurst Farm here:
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.
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.