A Biodynamic Manual

A Biodynamic Manual: Practical Instructions for Farmers and Gardeners (2nd Edition)

“The definitive practical manual for biodynamic farmers and gardeners, with a section on viticulture.” –David Lorimer, Scientific Medical Network Review

For anyone already practicing, or turning to, biodynamic gardening and farming methods, numerous detailed questions arise, such as:

• How do I choose my seeds?
• What fertilizers should I use?
• Which natural products are most effective?

This manual, fully illustrated with explanatory diagrams and photographs, provides the answers. The book covers:

• all aspects of making and using biodynamic preparations and composts
• managing the health of plants
• weed control
• parasite control
• issues of mixed cultivation
• animal care
• specialized crops and planting such as fruit trees and vines

This second edition also has extensive new chapters on large-scale farming, including livestock and cereal cultivation, and vegetable farming. The whole book has also been completely revised and updated.

Although the technical aspects of biodynamic growing are exhaustively covered, the author also considers the human qualities necessary for this kind of agriculture to succeed.

A Biodynamic Manual is an invaluable guide for all biodynamic growers to have to hand daily.

C O N T E N T S:

Preface
Preface to the Third French Edition
Introduction

PART 1: CORE BIODYNAMIC PRACTICE

1. Horn Manure (500 and 500P)
2. Horn Silica (501)
3. Biodynamic Compost
4. Compost Preparations, Barrel Preparations, and Starters
5. Liquid Manure and Animal Bedding
6. Pastes and Root Dip
7. Working with Cosmic Rhythms

PART 2: SUPPLEMENTARY PRACTICES

8. Plant Extracts, Herbal Teas, and Decoctions
9. Ferments
10. Products for Stimulating and Regulating Plant Health
11. Pest and Weed Control
12. Climate Issues

PART 3: SPECIFIC PRACTICES

13. Seeds
14. Green Manure
15. Large-scale Farming
16. Vegetable Farming
17. Care of Fruit Trees
18. Viticulture

Conclusion
Bibliography
Biodynamic Associations
Index

About the Author

Pierre Masson—with decades of practice in biodynamics on a mixed farming and breeding farm in Burgundy—passes on his vast knowledge while serving as a consultant and teacher. His experience in the field and his association and consulting work with numerous winegrowers over the years has given Pierre a global and practical vision of biodynamics.