Homeodynamic Farming

Our Journey from BD to HD

Biodynamics (BD) is the name given to the first codified organic farming methodology which was taught by Rudolf Steiner in Silesia in 1924. Later, J.I. Rodale took the biodynamic model and adapted it to what we know as organic farming.

Organic farming generally follows a similar model to chemical-based farming with the exception that inputs are of an organic, rather than chemical, nature. It is healthier for the soil, the biota, and the environment than conventional agriculture, but still relies heavily on water as the medium to carry inputs to the soil and plants. Inputs can be costly and time consuming and don’t necessarily lead to a balanced ecosystem on the farm.

Biodynamics is different. The system is governed by 3 basic principles:

Homeodynamics, in our view, is the appropriate response for mankind and the earth in the 21st century.

Fruits & Veggies

We produce berries in abundance at Rancho del Gallo. Raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, gooseberries, and currents grow prolifically here due to the high organic matter in our soils and adequate irrigation throughout the season.

Dairy & Eggs

Our hens and our cows have access to mixed grasses and forbs throughout the growing season and are given the hay from mixed pastures all winter. Hay produced using homeodynamic preparations and stored properly means it has the highest nutritional value we can manage. Hence, the eggs and milk the animals provide for us are also of the highest value.

Flowers & Grains

Flowers are an important part of our overall garden design. First, they add beauty and nectar flow throughout the entire growing season and are an important balancing effect to the predominant leafy growth in the vegetable garden. Grains are an important component to our whole farm organism so that we have high quality feed for the chickens and a balance to the fields.