Biodynamic Farming

As we begin to think about the upcoming spring many of us start planning for our small residential vegetable gardens. Our local farmers also are planning and working hard behind the scenes on a much larger scale. As you can imagine farming techniques vary.

Biodynamic farming is based on sound organic practices which acknowledges planetary and cosmic forces that influence plants, and the importance of a living earth to produce the highest quality food for human nourishment.

A main goal is to make these farms as self contained as possible. Farmers replace lost nutrients in the soil by making compost from previous crops and animal waste to which they add specially prepared herbs. Amplifying the natural growth is accomplished with two important field sprays, 500 and 501. The 500 spray stimulates the roots of the plants and adds beneficial microbes to the soil, whereas the 501 amplifies heat and light via photosynthesis resulting in healthier, more vibrant crops which are inherently less susceptible to pests and disease. Teas which are made from plants are introduced to help strengthen crops from fungal attack.

To learn more visit the website for the Southeast Pennsylvania Biodynamic Association: staghillfarm.com/sepbda