Handbook with general concepts of biodynamic agriculture and practical advices on farm level

Based on a series of eight lectures by Rudolf Steiner in 1924, the movement for biodynamic agriculture today involves many hundreds of farms and millions of consumers worldwide. Much has been written about the unique perspectives of biodynamic methods for farming, nutrition, the world of nature, and the wider cosmos. But how does it work in practice? What is it like to run a farm based on its principles? England's Tablehurst and Plaw Hatch farms are a cooperative venture in which the local community plays a crucial role. As successful commercial enterprises with large production, they have a growing reputation for the excellence of their produce. Through interviews, commentary, and dozens of full-color photos, Biodynamics in Practice offers a guided tour of the farms from the view of a sympathetic visitor. It illustrates how biodynamic farms work, how they differ from conventional and organic farms, and why that difference is important. In short and accessible vignettes, the book looks at many aspects of farm life, including animal rearing and welfare--cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry--crop growth, dairy, and cheese making, as well as beekeeping and the care of people with special needs. It also introduces biodynamics itself, with brief histories of the two farms. People often view farms simply as food-producing factories; this book, however, shows that they can be much more, offering spiritually sustaining focal points of community cohesion and participation.

And if she stayed still Without making a sound She could see gnomes Helping plants through the ground. This radiant picture book was written for Julianna Margulies--the film actor and former star of the hit television series "ER"--when she was six years old. Her father, Paul Margulies, captures the pure openness of a child's imagination. These reflections on what a small girl sees around her remind us all, young and old, that life's riches can come to us through our loving attention to the simple and "ordinary." The vibrant images by Famke Zonneveld (the illustrator of Living Alphabet) bring this book to life. (Ages 4 - 7 years)

"The author describes the foundations on which not only biodynamics but also the wider organic movement is based. He builds bridges between mainstream science and Steiner's insights, making it easier for the wider organic and ecological movement to approach biodynamic concepts and practise. This book has much to offer to the beginner as well as to those already involved with biodynamics. Its broad range of topics - including the ecology of the farm organism, food quality and nutrition, community supported agriculture, planetary influences, seed quality, and the vitality of water - contribute to a deeper understanding of the subject."--

Biodynamic gardening is a natural system that marries organic gardening with a method of planting in sync with the rhythms of the earth. The result is healthful fruits and vegetables grown in a natural, self-sustaining environment. In their book, If You Like My Apples, authors Clue Dennis and Luke Miller have created a concise easy-to-understand guide to using this earth-friendly system. The authors first explain the theories of biodynamic gardening, and then provide you with a simple, practical approach to establishing your own thriving garden. Throughout, clear illustrations clarify concepts and techniques, help you identify essential tools, and guide you in applying the earth-friendly theories of biodynamics to your own particular conditions and needs.

A simple step-by-step guide to biodynamics This is the easy guide to getting luscious fruit and vegetables and gorgeous flowers by harnessing the rhythms of nature and using all-natural methods. For gardeners looking for a self-sufficient, ethical approach that produces great results, biodynamics is the ultimate form of organic gardening. DK's trademark visual approach and practical advice shows the home gardener how to get the best from their garden using biodynamic methods. Biodynamic Gardening is the perfect introduction to this ultra-green method, explaining how it works by improving soil health and performing key tasks at optimal times. Focused chapters show you what to do in the garden each season, including preparing and feeding the soil, caring for plants, keeping a balanced garden ecosystem, and harvesting at the best times for the best flavor. It also includes step-by-step features explain how to make the special soil preparations biodynamic gardening is so famous for.

Steiner's original contribution to human knowledge was based on his ability to conduct 'spiritual research', the investigation of metaphysical dimensions of existence. With his scientific and philosophical training, he brought a new systematic discipline to the field, allowing for conscious methods and comprehensive results. A natural seer from childhood, he cultivated his spiritual vision to a high degree, enabling him to speak with authority on previously veiled mysteries of life. The evolving human being; Cosmos as the source of life; Plants and the living earth; Farms and the realms of nature; Bringing the chemical elements to life; Soil and the world of spirit; Supporting and regulating life processes; Spirits of the elements; Nutrition and vitality; Responsibility for the future.