
Biodynamics
Biodynamics is a science of life-forces, a recognition of the basic principles at work in nature, and an approach to agriculture which takes these principles into account to bring about balance and healing. Biodynamics is an ongoing path of knowledge rather than an assemblage of methods and techniques. Biodynamic agriculture is part of the work of Rudolf Steiner known as anthroposophy - a new approach to science which integrates precise observation of natural phenomena, clear thinking, and knowledge of the spirit.
Ken Mason grows biodynamic oranges, mandarins, lemons and grapefruit at Woodbury near Yeppoon, in Central Queensland.
By using herbal preparations, Mr Mason says the ultimate goal of being biodynamic is to create a healthier soil, regardless of what you grow.
Read moreThey've outlawed any pesticides, synthetic fertilizers or artificial chemicals from entering the ground of the 2 acre vineyard they've started planting this spring, and they monitor everything that touches it.
It's their mission not only to be certified as an organic vineyard, but also as a biodynamic one, which would be the first of its kind in Virginia, according to Loretta Briede.
Read moreFor those who choose to go organic, local, sustainable and all the other food buzzwords, the price is high. And for those who choose to kick it up a notch and go biodynamic, the cost is even higher. The average customer, however, is a little murky when it comes to actually defining biodynamics. You have to wonder, is it worth it?
Read moreAn April 13, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) announced the four winners of its second annual “Growing Green” awards, which honor leaders in the sustainable-food world in four categories: “thought leader,” “producer,” business leader,” and “water steward.” Here, I turn my attention to Mike Benziger, who brought home the “water steward” prize for his work at Benziger Family Winery.
Read moreKnown as the father of the modern biodynamic farming movement in New Zealand, Proctor's work with crisis-struck farmers in India over the past fifteen year provides a strong grassroots alternative to industrialised conventional agriculture, which is failing on all counts. Like many other critics, he believes that systematic corporate control has separated us from our food supply, and biodynamic agriculture may be our last chance for survival.
Read moreWild Oats Markets, a leading national natural and organic foods retailer, today announced it will add Certified Biodynamic wines and wines made with Biodynamic grapes to its current selection of high-quality domestic, international and organic wines available at Wild Oats stores. Biodynamic is characterized by a connection with the soil, sunlight and rhythms of nature that are unique to each vineyard.
Read moreThe evolution of a vintner's product from conventional to organic to biodynamic makes sound environmental sense, but that doesn't mean the resulting bottle of wine is an easy sell. The biodynamic approach is still new to many wine drinkers and isn't necessarily viewed as an asset, though vintners expect they will taste the improvement.
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