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:

• Use of biodynamic sprays to stimulate biological activity in the soil, and improve retention of nutrients, such as animal wastes
• Stocking with several different animal species to vary grazing patterns and reduce pasture borne parasites
• Widening the range of pasture species
• Planting trees for multiple purposes
• Crop rotation designs to enhance soil fertility and control weeds and plant pests which include the use of green manures
• Recycling of organic wastes, where possible, by large scale composting
• Changing from chemical pest control to prevention strategies based on good plant and animal nutrition and careful cultivar selection.

Biodynamics is a systems approach where 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 are 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 and buyers.

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

Where did biodynamics come from?

In the 1920s' a number of European farmers were deeply concerned with signs of agriculture in decline:

• Soil infertility
• Unthrifty animals
• Loss of food quality.

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

In New Zealand, biodynamic methods were first used in 1928 at Havelock North.

For further information please contact:

David Wright, Secretary
Bio Dynamic Farming and Gardening Association
Postal: PO Box 39045, Wellington
Telephone: 0-4-589 5366 (within NZ); +64-4-589 5366 (international)
Fax: 0-4-589 5365 (within NZ); +64-4-589 5365 (international)
E-mail: info@biodynamic.org.nz

© 2004 Bio Dynamic Farming and Gardening Association in NZ Inc.