The BDAA is offering a series of introductory workshops across the country for farmers and gardeners who are interested in developing their organic system and enhancing the health and vitality of their crops and livestock

Each workshop is led by an experienced practitioner who can demonstrate the key principles involved in a practical hands on way.

Newly tilled Corbenic earth - May 2009

These workshops provided a unique opportunity to earn about biodynamic farming and horticulture.

Biodynamic is a well established organic approach to sustainable agriculture. It produces food of particularly high quality and its credentials are second to none.

Whether you are concerned to avoid chemical inputs or learn about a unique form of sustainable farming, these workshops are for you.

The day had a very practical focus and will take place outdoors in and around  Corbenic's gardens and farm.

Handouts were provided on some of these subjects.

Participants wore suitable outdoor clothing and brought a packed lunch.




Corbenic gardens  - June 1, 2009

 

10.00 Introduction to biodynamic practice

The key principles of biodynamic practice were introduced - concept of the farm individuality, the importance of home-sourcing manures and feed, and the care of humus.

11.00 The biodynamic compost preparations -

Practical session Introducing the biodynamic compost preparations, preparing a compost and making a special humus-enhancing manure concentrate (barrel preparation)

13.00 Lunch break

13.30 Horn manure and horn silica - stirring and spraying

The biodynamic spray preparations were introduced. The full stirring process was demonstrated and explained and afterwards half an acre was sprayed by hand.

There were plenty of questions and discussion throughout.

15.00 Tea break

15.30 Enhancing health and vitality

The session drew together the various ways farmers and gardeners can enhance health and vitality in their crops and address questions relating to cosmic rhythms, including a brief explanation of the biodynamic planting calendar.


16.30 Concluding discussion

General questions;  Demeter certification and Training;

1730  Conclusion and depart

 

Cost was £50 

You can book your place in a number of ways

Recommended Reading! Useful introductory books

• Grasp the Nettle Making Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Work Peter Proctor £17.00
• Biodynamic Agriculture, Willy Schilthuis £7.99
• Biodynamic Farming Practice, Satler & Wistinghausen £12
• Biodynamic Sowing & Planting Calendar 2009 M Thun £6.99 (Published annually)
• Biodynamic Spray and Compost Preps - Directions for Use C Von Wistinghausen £5
• Biodynamic Spray & Compost Prep - Production Methods C Von Wistinghausen £5

All prices are plus 15% P&P

All books are available from the BDAA via our online shop

Please go to www.biodynamic.org.uk

Harvesting Corbenic's garden, September 2008