Biodynamic Farming and Gardening: Renewal and Preservation of Soil Fertility (Revised)

nEvery agricultural enterprise is a self-contained, biological unit. --Ehrenfried Pfeiffer There have been numerous developments and advancements in biodynamic agricultural methods since Ehrenfried Pfeiffer introduced North Americans to the foundational principles and practices of biodynamics, the basics of which continue to be used today. Thus, although Biodynamic Farming and Gardening was first published in 1938, it remains a foundational text for anyone who is or plans to become a serious biodynamic farmer or gardener. In this volume, Pfeiffer lays out the essential practices for successfully operating a biodynamic farm, including the principles behind each technique and practice. He backs up these methods with scientific research and data, as well as his own experience as a farmer and researcher, describing what works and what doesn't. Pfeiffer covers soil qualities, making compost, crop rotation, best planting practices, using biodynamic preparations and sprays, and much more--all with the goal of growing the highest-quality foods by using sustainable methods and working with nature and caring for the earth. This detailed book is an indispensable guide for both experienced, beginning, and prospective biodynamic farmers and gardeners. C O N T E N T S Introduction 1. The Farmer, Yesterday and Today n2. The Situation of Agriculture n3. The Farm and Its Broader Connections n4. Soil as a Living Organism: The Load Limit in Agriculture n5. Manure and Compost Treatment n6. Maintaining Living Soil: Cultivation and Organic Fertilization n7. How a Conventional Farm Becomes a Biodynamic Farm n8. Forestry n9. Market Gardening n10. The Dynamic Activity of Plant Life n11. Scientific Tests n12. Health Effects of Fertilizing n13. Practical Results of the Biodynamic Method n14. Human Responsibility n15. Summary Cited Works nBooks in English by Ehrenfried E. Pfeiffer nFurther Reading nEvery agricultural enterprise is a self-contained, biological unit. --Ehrenfried Pfeiffer There have been numerous developments and advancements in biodynamic agricultural methods since Ehrenfried Pfeiffer introduced North Americans to the foundational principles and practices of biodynamics, the basics of which continue to be used today. Thus, although Biodynamic Farming and Gardening was first published in 1938, it remains a foundational text for anyone who is or plans to become a serious biodynamic farmer or gardener. In this volume, Pf