Biodynamic Compost Preparations
Biodynamic Compost Preparation 502 - Yarrow
This is a fermented preparation made from Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) and is applied to our compost piles. It works to enliven the processes of sulfur, potassium and fluid flow within the compost pile by converting urea into protein, and develops nitrogen fixing bacteria. It helps the soil be more stable and helps plants access important trace minerals.
Biodynamic Compost Preparation 504 - Stinging Nettle
This is a fermented preparation made from Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) and is applied to our compost piles. BD 504 plays a major role in resolving soils with an imbalance of iron, magnesium and sulfur. Excess iron can cause many problems and often presents itself in the form of very tight soil with a hardpan or crust. This tightness locks in the iron and other trace minerals, which in turn makes the problem worse. BD 504 preparation loosens the soil texture allowing the nutrients to release, disperse and be absorbed by plants.
Biodynamic Compost Preparation 506 - Dandelion
This fermented preparation is made from the flowers of Dandelions (Taraxacum dens leonis) which is applied to our compost piles. It has a prominent influence on enabling plant and soil life to access silica. Silica is vital for improving cell structure and strength allowing plant sap to flow smoothly. In viticulture, silica is beneficial in creating a strong resistance to mildews specifically powdery mildew.
Biodynamic Compost Preparation 503 - Chamomile
This is a fermented preparation made from Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and is applied to our compost piles. It helps to reduce ammonia in the soil, breaks down organic matter in order to stabilize nitrogen and increases calcium to create rich stable humus that increases the health of the soil. The plants grow in autumn and winter and are harvested in late spring and early summer.
Biodynamic Compost Preparation 505 - Oak Bark
This preparation is made from Oak Bark (Quercus robur) humus and is applied to our compost piles. It specifically influences calcium and to a degree, phosphorus. Calcium is best applied in the living form and not applied as a mineral. There is approximately 3-5% calcium in oak bark and it is a great source of natural plant-based “living” calcium. It helps combat harmful plant diseases like fungus. Over the years, Oak bark will help to raise the pH of the soil eliminating the need to add lime
Biodynamic Compost Preparation 507 - Valerian
This preparation is an extract made from Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), a perennial herb and is applied to our compost piles. The Valerian plant has a relationship with light and warmth and brings these properties into the natural system. It stimulates micro-life to make phosphorus more available as it supports the phosphorus-activating bacteria in the soil The other BD compost preparations are placed directly into the compost, but BD 507 is applied in two ways, half is poured into a hole made in the compost, and the remainder is sprayed over the surface.