We combine proctices used by Natural Farmers, Permaculture processes and Biodynamic farming.
Our priority has been to build healthy soil by nourishing the living component of the soil, the microbial inhabitants that release, transform, and transfer nutrients. Using worms to convert an organic farm and organic garden waste not only takes far less time than hot composting the material but the vermicompost is far superior to conventional compost. The worm castings in the vermicompost have nutrients that are 97% utilizable by plants and the castings have a mucous coating which allows the nutrients to "time release". Using the rich 100% organic vermicompost, gives crops the best fertilizer on the planet.
Indigenous Herbal composts: In several pits spread out around the farm organic matter is collected as and when trees are pruned, crop residues and fresh farm-yard manure are added and it is kept moist and allowed to compost the help of EM (Effective Micronutrients) which facilitate the composting process.
The Herbal Spray we make on the farm is an effective pesticide.It contains water, cow urine (which is a potent source of urea), Aankh leaves, Neem leaves, crushed garlic, Dhatura (leaves or fruit), and a local wild fruit called ‘Gad-umba’. The concoction is allowed to ferment until it starts frothing. It is then strained and diluted with water for use as a spray.A simple combination of cow-urine and water spray (1:1) is a good fertilizer as well.
Cosmic Rhythms
Biodynamic agriculture is the oldest consciously organic approach to farming and gardening and is one of the most sustainable in existence.
It is founded on a holistic and spiritual understanding of nature and the human being and builds on the pioneering research work of Rudolf Steiner.It is a science of life-forces, a recognition of the basic principles at work in nature, and an approach to agriculture which takes these principles into account to bring about balance and healing. The light of the sun, moon, planets and stars reaches the plants in regular rhythms. Each contributes to the life, growth and form of the plant. By understanding the gesture and effect of each rhythm, we can time our ground preparation, sowing, cultivating and harvesting to the advantage of the
crops we are raising.
Biodynamics recognizes that soil itself can be alive, and this vitality supports and affects the quality and health of the plants that grow in it. Therefore, one of Biodynamics fundamental efforts is to build up stable humus in our soil through composting.
Rudolf Steiner pointed out that a new science of cosmic influences would have to replace old, instinctive wisdom and superstition. Out of his own insight, he introduced what are known as biodynamic preparations.
The preparations are made from six well known medicinal plants - yarrow, chamomile, stinging nettle, oak, dandelion and valerian. Their specific properties are enhanced and made effective for soil life during the course of a unique fermentation process in the soil. To make them effective some of the herbs require a sheath made of certain animal organ materials. These serve as catalysts for bringing about the required process.When ready these humus-like substances are added to the composting material in minute amounts where they radiate their effects throughout the heap. These preparations help to guide and regulate the decomposing and humus forming processes in the soil and make plant nutrient substances (sulphur, potash, nitrogen, calcium, silica, phosphorous) available in precisely the form needed for healthy plant growth.
It has taken 30 years but what was then a deserted scrub land, is now a lush forest with extremely rich soil. Below is a slide show of the exact locations 25years ago and today.
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