Biodynamic agriculture
What is biodynamic agriculture?
The term biodynamic or biological-dynamic consists of two parts: bio refers to agriculture that follows the laws of life, while dynamic emphasizes the conscious use of natural forces and organizing principles. Biodynamic agriculture has existed since 1924 and is considered the “mother” of modern organic farming. It emerged as a response to the increasing exploitation of the earth, the declining vitality of food caused by modern fertilizers and pesticides, and the growing intensification of agriculture. Rudolf Steiner, founder of anthroposophy as well as anthroposophic medicine and education, gave concrete answers to farmers’ questions during his Agriculture Course in Koberwitz, laying the foundations for a form of agriculture that understands the farm as a living organism with ecological, social, and spiritual dimensions.
In South Tyrol, biodynamic agriculture began in the early 1970s. At that time, the first farmers consciously chose this path in order to regenerate the soil, improve the quality of food, and organize the farm’s cycles sustainably. Since then, a network of biodynamic farms has developed, enabling the exchange of experience, further training, and joint commitment. Today in South Tyrol not only farmland is cultivated biodynamically, but these principles are also applied in processing, marketing, and in relationships with consumers. The biodynamic movement strengthens regional diversity, promotes ecologically conscious practices, and connects tradition with contemporary agriculture.
Practices of biodynamic agriculture:
- Soil care and crop rotation: The soil is regarded as the living foundation of all agricultural processes. Compost, manure, and biodynamic preparations support humus formation, nutrient cycles, and healthy soil life. Crop rotation and mixed cropping strengthen natural resilience and biodiversity.
- Animal husbandry: Ruminants, such as cattle, are key partners in the farm organism. Their manure forms the basis of compost and supports soil fertility. Animals are kept in species-appropriate conditions and actively integrated into the farm’s natural cycles.
- Plant care, sowing, and harvesting: Sowing, planting, and harvesting are planned, whenever possible, according to lunar phases and planetary positions to support growth processes. Careful observation of plants enables targeted care and encourages healthy, resilient crops.
- Biodynamic preparations: Special preparations (such as horn manure and horn silica) are used to strengthen natural life processes, vitalize soil and plants, and support the farm organism as a whole.
- Minimizing external inputs: Synthetic chemical pesticides are completely avoided. External inputs are used only selectively in order to maintain the farm’s autonomy and the natural diversity of the environment.
Biodynamic agriculture combines knowledge, observation, and conscious practice. It creates a harmonious cycle between soil, plants, animals, and human beings, while also acknowledging the subtle life forces that influence all processes on the farm.
The Demeter label represents high-quality products from biodynamic agriculture and embodies the principles of a holistic farm organism.
It guarantees that all stages of production—from soil cultivation and animal husbandry to harvesting and processing—comply with strict biodynamic standards.
Demeter-certified farms rely on natural cycles, biodynamic preparations, and a diversity of plant and animal species to promote soil fertility, plant vitality, and animal health. Processing and storage of products also follow strict quality standards to preserve the natural vitality of food.
For farmers, Demeter certification offers a clear advantage: it builds trust among consumers, enables fair marketing, and supports the economic sustainability of farms. At the same time, it provides customers with transparency regarding the origin, quality, and production methods of their food.
Products bearing the Demeter label are distinguished by their vitality, flavor, and nutritional density. They reflect the philosophy of biodynamic agriculture—a combination of quality, responsibility, and respect for nature, animals, and human beings.