Posts Tagged ‘Compost’
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Principles of Biodynamic Spray and Compost Preparations
Posted on January 26th, 2011 by admin
Principles of Biodynamic Spray And Compost Preparations
A renowned biodynamic expert, Klett provides a fascinating overview of the history of agriculture, then goes on to discuss the practicalities of spray and compost preparations and the philosophy behind them. This is essential reading for any biodynamic gardener or farmer who wants to understand the background to core biodynamic techniques. It is based on keynote talks given by Manfred Klett at Biodynamic Agricultural Association conferences.
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Biodynamic Agriculture: Organic Farming, Holism, Manure, Compost, Astronomy, Rudolf Steiner, Anthroposophy, List of Biodynamic Farms in the United States, … Permaculture, Sustainable Agriculture
Posted on January 23rd, 2011 by admin
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Composting: a Brief Guide for the Beginning Composter
Posted on January 11th, 2010 by admin

There is a wealth of information in the literature regarding biodynamic composting. Some say it is an exacting science requiring certain prepared solutions where inoculations of favorable microorganism and herbal preparations must be added to the pile at the start. It is actually simple and I have good results to prove it.
Biodynamic gardening, developed in Germany, is a method of soil stewardship that has gained international attention. One of its basic tenets is that there are “Dynamic” plants- plants that change the environment of the soil around them and enhance growth or destruction in neighboring species. Due to chemical constituents or the nature of its biological activity, these plants can be used to encourage the growth of certain crops or inhibit unwanted ones. The six herbs mentioned act on compost to speed and complete the decay process. Some people put fresh herbs into the pile if they have them, while others make a strong tea of all or some of the plants, poke a hole into the heap and pour it in. In either case, the compost is ready sooner than with the regular method and the pile never stops “cooking” even when neglected. Dandelions create humus around themselves, doing the same kind of work that earthworms do. Chamomile has been used to increase production of wheat, tomatoes and other herbs. It helps them to grow better and releases fungal inhibitors. Pretty fantastic!
Multitudes of microorganisms are available everywhere in the air and soil. Adding some soil will provide bacteria, fungus and yeasts needed. Unless you live in a sterile clay environment with no topsoil, you should have all you need right in your garden. Adding some green plant material such as green leaves, freshly cut weeds, grass clippings or even fresh seaweed if you live near the coast will really fire up your compost. The key is to get it “working”. By “working” I mean heat. Good compost is hot and steamy.
Properly prepared and mixed compost should take two weeks to a month to be ready for use. When the temperature is hot in your compost, the humic acid and other nutrients essential for plant growth will be created by the bacteria, fungus and yeast colonies thriving there.
A good compost pile needs to be turned. It needs attention. Sometimes there are failures even when most of the guidelines are followed but they are usually due to something simple such as a lack of moisture or microbes. The herbs chamomile, valerian, yarrow, nettle, comfrey andRelated Posts:




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