Biodynamic

Question 1

Explain the key concepts of Biodynamics

Answer 1

Biodynamic farming is an interconnected system: cosmic and earthly forces influence plant health and soil balance

Sun & Light: enhances photosynthesis and plant vitality

Soil & Root: microorganisms support growth

Balance: the farmer must harmonize light, water, heat, and nutrients.

Farmer: mediator between nature, economy, and cosmic forces to sustain farm

Science, philosophy, and spirituality

Question 2

Explain the health of a farm from a biodynamic point of view, and how does a farm stay healthy? (POTENTIAL EXAM QUESTION)

Answer 2

1. Salutogenesis (Health-Promoting Forces):
   Focuses on strengthening the farm’s natural resilience rather than just fighting disease.

-encourages healthy plant growth, soil vitality, and biodiversity

2. Pathogenesis (Disease-Causing Forces)
   Represents factors that weaken the farm system, leading to disease and imbalance.

-soil degredation, monoculture, chemical dependancy, poor managment

Health Farm:
When salutogenesis outweights pathogenesis.

How to strengthen salutogenesis:
-compost
-cover crop
-crop rotation
-horn silica
-horn manure
-herbal teas

Question 3

Explain preparations 500 and 501 and describe what they are used for

Answer 3

Prep 500:
Horn Manure
-fill a cow horn with fresh manure
-bury it over winter - 6 months
-ferments and becomes microbial rich humus

-Then used as a tea spray to enhanse soil fertility and microbial life
-activates beneficial microbes
-improves root development
-boost water retention

Prep 501:
Horn Silica
-fill a cow horn with crushed silica (quartz)
-bury it over summer - 6 months
-absorbs solar and cosmic forces and becomes fine crystalline powder

-Then diluted in water to become a spray
-enhanses light absorption and photosynthesis
-promotes plant disease resistance
-encourages plant growth