Organic gardening is on everyone's agenda, but have you ever heard of biodynamic gardening? This versatile practice takes natural planting a step further and can do wonders for the flowers, shrubs and vegetables you grow in your garden.
No one can deny healthy and happy plants, but this does not happen without care and attention. Using a good irrigation system, fertilizing and general plant care goes without saying, but have you ever thought about crop rotation or proper soil composition? How about landing from the moon? It may sound a little strange, but biodynamics is a holistic approach to gardening using such natural methods, and people are reporting amazing results.
Are you ready for a modern garden that looks better than ever? Here, we asked two gardening experts to talk more about biodynamic gardening and how to apply this idea to your outdoor space.
What is biodynamic gardening?
Biodynamic gardening is not as difficult as it seems. Despite the many aspects, the concept itself uses an ecological approach that promotes biodiversity conservation, improves soil health and protects the natural environment. While they have traditionally been used in large agricultural operations, many people are now bringing the idea to their backyards.
"At its core, biodynamic gardening is a holistic approach to farming and gardening," says Simplify Gardening's Tony O'Neill. "Based on the teachings of Rudolf Steiner since 1924, this philosophy covers many fields such as astronomy, plant biology, soil science and new fertilization methods."
This holistic approach includes many components, from rebirth to attention to the cycles of the moon. It's about creating a self-sustaining ecosystem, says Richa Kedia, horticulturist and founder of Nursery Lady. "It uses natural botanicals, minerals and manure to improve soil fertility and boost plant growth," he says. "Gardeners are working to create a closed system where everything is recycled and nothing is wasted."
How should you use biodynamic plantings in your garden?
An easy way to use biodynamics in your garden is to use biodynamic sprays that act like fertilizers. Various herbs such as chamomile, nettle and dandelion can be made into herbal teas to promote growth, absorption of nutrients and immunity.
If you have a garden, regular crop rotation can help break the cycle of pests and diseases by interrupting their life cycle and improving soil fertility. As a result, your plants can grow more abundantly, and the products you produce often contain minerals not found in regular commercial products.
Finally, one of the key principles of biodynamic gardening concerns the phases of the moon. Most importantly, when the moon changes from new moon to full moon (when it is in the first quarter), it is the best time to plant the seeds that will produce a crop in the ground, and the roots should be planted after the moon become . passed.full It decreases (known as decrease).
Does biodynamic gardening really work?
As with any "pseudo-scientific" practice, people are quick to question the validity of biodynamic gardening, but there is plenty of evidence to support its benefits.
Talking about the benefits of biodynamic horticulture, Tony says: "While there is less scientific evidence to support traditional farming practices, there are some compelling findings." "Biodynamic Agriculture and Climate Change" Research by John Reaganold and others shows that biodynamic practices improve soil quality, increase the nutritional value of produce and increase resistance to pests and diseases.
Compared to modern horticultural practices that use chemical pesticides, there is more love for biodynamics and the sustainable lifestyle it promotes. "Biodynamic gardening has the same principles as organic farming, such as avoiding synthetic fertilizers and pesticides and promoting soil health through natural methods," says Richa.
"While comprehensive research on biodynamic horticulture is not yet available, many of the benefits of organic farming also apply to biodynamic horticulture."
What vegetables are best to plant?
Biodynamics is best used in the garden to increase yields, but it can be used in any garden. As Tony explains, "The best thing about it is its versatility and ability to adapt to different types of plants and soil." Even if container gardening is the only plant you're used to, be sure to renew the soil each season and consider ideas like planting for a balanced ecosystem. Biodynamics is such a delicate thing.
Another important factor to consider is your area of origin. "Biodynamic gardening is particularly suitable for growing native plants adapted to the local soil and climate," explains Richa. "Because biodynamic gardening emphasizes the importance of working with the environment and encouraging biodiversity."
What you read here will make biodynamics easier to understand, and while it may take a while to learn all its nuances, it's definitely a great way to go green. According to Tony: “An approach that requires a lot of upfront effort and a new way of thinking has huge implications for plants and the benefits of plant biodiversity.
biodynamic gardening book
Price: $19.44
Format: Portfolio
