International Journal of Plant & Soil Science

Volume 35, Issue 10, Page 157-167, 2023; Article [Link].99004

ISSN: 2320-7035

Dynamic Use of Cow Pat Pit,

Biodynamic Preparations and
Peppering in Organic Farming
Devashree Ningombi a*, Aashi Dafouti a, Pranjal Nagpal a,
Haris Bashir Nanda a, Shubhanjali Banerjee a
and Shilpa Kaushal a
a
University Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab, India.

Authors’ contributions

This work was carried out in collaboration among all authors. All authors read and approved the final
manuscript.

Article Information
DOI: 10.9734/IJPSS/2023/v35i102935

Open Peer Review History:

This journal follows the Advanced Open Peer Review policy. Identity of the Reviewers, Editor(s) and additional Reviewers,
peer review comments, different versions of the manuscript, comments of the editors, etc are available here:
[Link]

Received: 15/02/2023
Review Article Accepted: 21/04/2023
Published: 28/04/2023

ABSTRACT

Working with the energies that produce and maintain life is referred to as biodynamic farming. It is
a type of organic farming using farming inputs made from herbs, minerals, and raw materials
processed in complex ways, and then applied to the soil and crops in minute doses. However, what
distinguishes biodynamic farming from organic farming is that biodynamic farming makes use of an
astrological calendar to determine the most auspicious times for planting, cultivating, and
harvesting. It collaborates with the energy of the Sun, Moon, constellations, and planets to produce
and sustain life. The ideas of biodynamic agriculture include substance and energy, soil, organic
matter, humus, cow manure, cosmic forces, biodynamic preparations, crop rotation, peppering,
farm organisms, and the control of weeds, pests, and disease. The main objective of this paper is
to review and briefly highlight biodynamic cow pat pit (CPP), different types of biodynamic
preparations, biodynamic peppering, and how they are related to the cosmic cycles. Biodynamic
Cow Pat Pit (CPP) is a biodynamic preparation that uses cow manure to boost the humus-forming
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

*Corresponding author: E-mail: [Link]@[Link];

Int. J. Plant Soil Sci., vol. 35, no. 10, pp. 157-167, 2023
 Ningombi et al.; Int. J. Plant Soil Sci., vol. 35, no. 10, pp. 157-167, 2023; Article [Link].99004

processes of the soil and encourage soil activity. On the other hand, biodynamic preparations are
numbered from 500 to 508 and are straightforward, all-natural homeopathic remedies prepared
from yarrow, chamomile, horn silica, and other plants. And lastly, biodynamic peppering deals with
an unbalanced insect problem, animal pests, or weed problem. So, overall biodynamic agriculture
uses the natural resources and energy available upon itself to create and maintain life. It somehow
increases the nutritional quality of the food, improves seed vitality, fewer weeds, pests, and disease
infestation, and produces living soil and healthy plants for sustainable agriculture.

Keywords: Biodynamic farming; cow pat pit; peppering; BD preparation.

1. INTRODUCTION 2. EFFECTS OF BIODYNAMIC FARMING

The term biodynamic is taken from the Greek Biodynamic farming deals with interrelationships
word “bios” meaning “life” and “dynamics” between soil, humans, plants and animals.
meaning “energy”. Hence biodynamic farming Various studies conducted on biodynamic
refers to “working with the energies which create farming concluded that biodynamic farming
and maintain life” [1]. The Father of biodynamic increases the nutritional content of food.
farming is Rudolf Steiner. BD farming is Biodynamically grown crops are known to
characterized by two primary features. First, by contain more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants
applying specific farming inputs—made from than conventionally grown crops. Also, it can be
various herbal, mineral, and raw materials—in noted that biodynamic farming aims to
low amounts to the soil and crops after complex regenerate natural resources such as soil, seeds
processing. Second, by observing natural and water. It focuses more on building strong
rhythms that go beyond the most conspicuous and healthy soil, full of nutrients, by using
influences of the sun, weather, and season, such different types of biodynamic preparations, use of
as lunar, planetary, and stellar constellations [2]. composting, and various other farm practices
In contrast to organic farming, biodynamic such as crop rotations. Moreover, biodynamic
farming uses an astronomical calendar to farming highlights the use of natural and organic
determine the most favourable periods for fertilizers and pesticides rather than the use of
planting, producing, and harvesting crops. synthetic ones. By doing so, the water pollution
Biodynamic farms also strive to become self- by fertilizers and pesticides will be minimized
sufficient in animal feeds, compost, and manure resulting in more diverse organisms, a balanced
[3]. Biodynamic farming has increased the mean ecosystem and healthy soil and plants. All these
yield of potatoes by 10.4% and 10.9%, carrots by interrelationships between soil, humans, plants
17.2% and 24%, cabbage by 14.3% and 28.3% and animals result in more increased yields and
and French beans by 24.5 and 22.5% under higher pest resistance.
irrigated and rainfed conditions respectively [4].
Early twentieth-century Europeans began using 3. FEATURES OF BIODYNAMIC FARMING
biodynamic agriculture (BDA) as a methodical
alternative to the spread of high-input industrial Biodynamic farming uses organic and
agriculture [5]. In the past 20 years, biodynamic sustainable practices to build healthy soil and
farming has gained scientific attention as an promote the growth of healthy plants. This
alternate strategy for sustainable production. includes the use of compost, cover crops, and
One of the oldest ideas is biodynamic farming, crop rotation to maintain soil fertility, as well as
which has its origins in Rudolf Steiner's lectures the avoidance of synthetic fertilizers and
at Schloss Koberwitz (1924). The biodynamic pesticides. Biodynamic farmers use a series of
farming system has developed over time, and as preparations made from natural materials, such
agricultural issues multiply, so do the number of as cow manure, silica, and yarrow, to enhance
biodynamic farms and enterprises. To address soil fertility and stimulate plant growth. These
these problems, biodynamic farming may be preparations are typically applied in small
helpful to preserve biodiversity, and promoting amounts and at specific times in the lunar cycle.
sustainability [6]. BD agricultural practises are Biodynamic farming emphasizes the importance
found to be more energy efficient, and Eric of biodiversity and the interconnectedness of all
Lichtfouse views these qualities as being of living things. Biodynamic farmers aim to create a
growing importance in the face of climate diverse and balanced ecosystem on their farms,
change, energy shortage, and population including a variety of plant and animal species. It
expansion. is designed to work with, rather than against, the

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natural rhythms of the earth and the seasons. biodynamic cow pat pit (CPP), different types of
Biodynamic farmers pay attention to the position biodynamic preparations, biodynamic peppering,
of the sun, moon, and stars in planting and and how they are related to the cosmic cycles.
harvesting crops, and use a planting calendar
based on the lunar cycle. Biodynamic farmers 5.1 Cow Pat Pit CPP
often integrate animals into their farming
systems, such as using cows to provide manure Biodynamic Cow Pat Pit (CPP) is a biodynamic
for compost or chickens to help control pests. preparation that uses cow manure to boost the
This helps to promote soil health and humus-forming processes of the soil and
biodiversity. It is one of the first sustainable encourage soil activity. It creates a natural
Agricultural movements; produces living soil and nutrient input on the farm. Moreover, it
healthy plants as a result of coordinated work of accelerates the conversion of organic matter in
earthly and cosmic energies. compost and helps to initiate manure
fermentation. It is a natural breeder of effective
4. BENEFITS OF BIODYNAMIC FARMING micro-organisms and bio-fertilizers. It helps
reduce the effects of radioactive fallout on land
Biodynamic farming uses organic and where it was applied. It is simple to make,
sustainable practices to build healthy soil, inclusive and low-cost. It assimilates local
including the use of cover crops, crop rotation, traditions and practices.
and compost. This can lead to improved soil
fertility, water retention, and overall soil health. 5.1.1 Cow pat pit raw materials
Biodynamic farmers aim to create a diverse and
1. Cow manure
balanced ecosystem on their farms, including a
2. Biodynamic preparations 502-507
variety of plant and animal species. This can help
3. Ground basalt
to support beneficial insects and other wildlife
4. Ground grains
and may also lead to increased crop yields and
5. Eggshells.
pest resistance. Biodynamic farming minimizes
the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, 5.1.2 Preparation of CPP
which can reduce chemical runoff and pollution in
the environment. Some studies suggest that 1. Make a pit (90 cm x 60 cm x 30 cm) lined
biodynamically grown crops may have higher with bricks but with no bottom liner and no
levels of certain nutrients, such as antioxidants cement.
and vitamins, than conventionally grown crops. It 2. Mix 60 kg fresh cow dung with 200 gm
produces fruits and vegetables of the highest crushed, powdered eggshells, and 200 gm
quality, with flavourful and nutrient-dense foods. basalt dust (or blue granite dust or bore
Biodynamically grown crops are often noted for well soil).
their exceptional taste and quality, due in part to 3. Mix thoroughly to obtain a smooth paste.
the healthy soil and natural farming practices 4. Fill the mixture in to pit up to 12 cm height.
used. Biodynamic farming is designed to work 5. Pat it gently to get an even spread and flat
with, rather than against, the natural rhythms of surface.
the earth and the seasons. This can lead to 6. Also wet the bricks periodically
increased resilience in the face of weather 7. Dig 5 holes in the paste and put one
events, pests, and other challenges. Biodynamic teaspoon full (3 g each) of preparation BD
farming is a sustainable and ethical farming 502 to BD 506 in each hole.
practice that supports the health and well-being 8. BD Preparation 507 is mixed with water,
of the soil, plants, animals, and humans involved. half is poured in one hole, and half is
sprinkled over the entire surface.
5. PRINCIPLES OF BIODYNAMIC 9. Cover the surface with a wet gunny bag.
FARMING 10. After four weeks, aerate the dung by
turning it with the help of a fork.
Biodynamic agriculture works on various 11. Smooth out again and cover.
principles such as substance and energy, soil, 12. Thereafter turn every week.
organic matter, humus, cow manure, cosmic 13. CPP compost will be ready in 12 weeks.
forces, biodynamic preparations, crop rotation, 14. Store in a mud pot covered with a damp
peppering, farm organisms, weeds, pests, and cloth and do not let the cloth gets dry.
disease management. The main objective of this 15. Place in a shaded space away from the
paper is to review and briefly highlight sun and rain

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5.1.3 Uses of CPP quantities but show remarkable effects on plant

growth, yield and quality. The BD-500, BD-501,
1. As Spray: combine BD 500 or 501 with 100 and BD-502-507 are used to increase soil
g CPP per acre. fertility, regulate biotic and abiotic stress, and
2. As Foliar spray: 5 kg/acre applied every 7– produce compost. These BD preparations are
15 days from the start of the crop till the produced with cow dung and other herbal plants
stage of fruit/pod production. and fermented for a specific period [9].
3. As Soil inoculant: 2 kg/acre of compost-
and-inoculant-mixed soil. 5.2.1 BD 500 (cow horn manure)
4. As paste: Fruit tree stems are covered in
paste. Cow Horn Manure, often known as "500," is
5. As inoculant: instead of 502 to 507, a made by stuffing quality cow manure into cow
biodynamic compost inoculant. horns and burying it for the winter. It is buried in
6. As compost: 500gm-2kg per acre September/October, and it is raised in
7. It also heals grafting wounds. February/March. Basically, it is fermented cow
8. Use for seed, root and stem dipping before manure. It serves as the foundation for both soil
planting. rejuvenation and fertility. BD 500 is to be applied
when the dew is falling (the earth breathes in)
According to a study by Radha and Rao [7], i.e., late afternoon or evening (just before sunset)
actinomycetes were found in CPP as a result of i.e., descending Moon. It can be sprayed 4 times
the addition of calcium during production. The a year – during the beginning and after rains, i.e.,
bacterial isolates from CPP were also tested for Feb-May-Nov-Dec. It should be used within 1
ammonia, IAA, HCN and siderophore-producing year of making and should be stored in a dark
activities. In another study conducted by Perumal and cool temperature of not more than 25 °C. It
et al. [8], it was reported plant growth hormones encourages root growth, stimulates/increases
such as Indole Acetic Acid IAA (28.6 mg/kg), soil microbial activity, and controls lime and
kinetin (7.6 mg/kg) and gibberellic acid (23.6 nitrogen levels. It also helps to release trace
mg/kg) in CPP. For this reason, CPP stimulates elements and Increases germination.
plant growth by providing nutrients and plant
hormones and protects the plant’s root zone 5.2.2 BD 501 (cow horn silica)
against fungal diseases with bacteria and The original Cow Horn Silica, BD 501, the
actinomycetes producing HCN and siderophores. biodynamic atmospheric spray was created from
The highest gram-positive and negative bacteria a clear quartz crystal that had been broken up
(184 ± 14 × 105 cfu/g), (225 ± 9 × 105 cfu/g) and let to soak in cow horns all summer. It is
were isolated from CPP, respectively. The buried in the spring (April/May) and lifted in the
increase in bacteria might be due to inoculation fall (September). The best time to use BD 501 is
of BD502-507 during CPP preparation [9]. when the earth is breathing out and the cosmic
light energy is at its peak (summer). It can be
5.2 Biodynamic Preparations
sprayed over the plants using a low-pressure
Biodynamic preparations are simple straight sprayer (Knapsack 80-100 psi). It should be
forward, all-natural homoeopathic remedies sprayed into the air to fall as a gentle mist over
prepared from yarrow, chamomile, horn silica, the plants. But generally, spray twice during the
and other plants, Biodynamic preparations planting cycle; at the beginning and again just
increase the impacts of the planets, silica, and before harvest. It can be kept for up to three
lime on the soil and plants, as well as the rate of years in a glass jar with a loose-fitting lid and
decomposition and potential life energies in kept outside in direct sunshine. Cow Horn silica
compost piles. For direct application to the soil or (501) controls leaf growth promotes flavour and
plants, Dr. Steiner provided two preparations storage quality, as well as photosynthesis and
(numbered 500 and 501), and six preparations fruit ripening. Additionally, it enhances the sugar
for composting (numbered 502 to 507). BD 502 formation process, which increases carbon
to 507 are known as compost preparations sequestration.
because they are added to manures and 5.2.3 BD 502 (yarrow)
composts in small amounts. There is a ninth
preparation, BD 508, which is prepared by boiling This is created from yarrow flowers and a stag's
the horsetail plant and is only used in years that bladder. The yarrow flowers are stuffed inside
are unusually rainy to avoid fungal infections. A the urinary bladder of a stag and are buried from
few BD preparations are used in minute September to march.

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5.2.4 BD 503 (chamomile) full moon (2-4 days beforehand) and when the
moon is in opposition to Saturn. BD 508 can be
This is composed of the flowers of the applied by diluting the tincture with water: 50 g
Chamomile plant combined with the cow tincture to 10 litres water. In the early phases of
intestine. The chamomile flowers are stuffed growth, BD 508 can be sprayed onto the soil or
inside the intestine of a cow and are buried from over the plants.
October to Feb/March.
According to Trivedi et al., [10], the use of the
5.2.5 BD 504 (Himalayan stinging nettle) biodynamic preparation BD 501 and botanical
neem oil increased yield characteristics and yield
BD 504 is made by stuffing the dried leaves of to their highest possible levels while also
Himalayan stinging nettle in a mud pot reducing the occurrence of black gram disease
surrounded by peat in all directions and buried under an organic production system. Pfeiffer [11]
for a year. reported that spray of biodynamic manure BD
501 increases photosynthesis and as such
5.2.6 BD 505 (Himalayan oak bark) complements the activity of the preparation BD
500, which works mostly in the root zone of the
BD 505 is made from Himalayan oak bark and plant. It also strengthens the plants against some
the skull of any domesticated animal. The oak fungus attacks. Jayasree and George [12]
bark is chopped up into different pieces and reported that the application of two biodynamic
stuffed inside the skull of the domesticated preparations (BD 500 and BD 501) in chili by
animal. It is surrounded by peat in all directions adopting a biodynamic calendar resulted in better
and buried from September to March. fruit quality of chili. The concept of biodynamic
manure (BD 501) was originally given by Rudolf
5.2.7 BD 506 (dandelion) Steiner [13] who showed that due to the
application of BD 500, significant internal
BD 506 is made from dandelion flowers and changes do take place in the manure during
cow’s mesentery. Since the flower is extremely overwintering in the soil. The principal changes
sensitive to light, it is inserted in the cow's are a significant drop in pH, an increase in
delicate mesentery. Make sure any superfluous aerobic status and the production of nitrate. He
fat is removed. Avoid washing the mesentery. added that BD 500 and BD 501 applications
The dried flowers should be placed in the activate humus and natural manure content.
mesentery, wrapped in a packet, and fastened
with jute thread. Put the packet in a pot with a Another similar case is Compost made using
healthy amount of soil and compost. The biodynamic principles works well to improve soil
mesentery might or might not be visible as you quality and provides crops with nutrients right
elevate the preparation. It is usually buried from away. Green and dried leaves can be used to
September to March. create a biodynamic compost heap. Dry leaves
(carbonaceous material) and green leaves
5.2.8 BD 507 (Valerian) (nitrogenous material) are alternately stacked in
layers that are 15 to 25 cm thick and measure 5
The juice of valerian flowers is used for this by 2 by 1.5 meters. Rock phosphate (P), loose
preparation. Using a mortar and pestle, pulverize lime (Ca), wood ash (K), and other materials can
the trimmed flowers to create a paste. In a bottle, be used to enhance the compost with various
a ratio of one to four is used to mix this mixture nutrients as needed. The breakdown and
with water. Make sure to store things in a cool degradation of the material are greatly influenced
location. For every five cubic meters of compost, by the composition of air, moisture, and heat. A
use 1 gram of each (502–506) and 10 ml of 507 set of B.D. 502–507 is included, and the heap is
diluted in 2–5 litres of water at a 5% plastered with dung and clay mixtures [14].
concentration. Both liquid manures and cow pat
pits might use these additions. The basic biodynamic field spray formulations
are as follows. Cow horns are buried in rich soil
5.2.9 BD 508 (Equisetum arvense) and filled with fresh cow excrement from lactating
cows. In order to incubate entirely during the
Because of its high silica content, it can be used winter, horns are buried in the lowering moon
as a tea to combat fungus in the early growing during the autumn (October to November). It is
season. Similar to BD 50, it should be sprayed at removed once more in March or April during the

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Table 1. Biodynamic preparations

Preparation Herb/material Planet Time of burial to Result

lifting
502 Yarrow flower Venus Hang up in the March Permits plants to attract
Achillea millifolium to get cosmic trace elements in
influences. extremely dilute
Bury from September quantities for best
to March in a mud nutrition
pot with earth inside.
503 Chamomile flower Mercury Bury in October and Stabilizes Nitrogen (N)
Matricuria chamomilla let it remain in the within the compost and
soil till Feb/March. increases soil life so as
to stimulate plant growth
504 Stinging Nettle Mars Harvest leaves in Stimulates soil health,
Urtica parviflora May and September by providing plants with
Lift the preparation in the individual nutrition
September after a components needed,
year ‘enlivens’ the earth
(soil).
505 Oak Bark Moon The preparation is Provides healing forces
Quercus glauca placed in September (or qualities) to combat
and lifted in March. harmful plant diseases.
506 Dandelion flower Jupiter Place in September Stimulates relation
Taraxicum officinalis and lift in March. between Si and K so
that the Si can attract
cosmic forces to the soil
507 Valerian flower Saturn ---- Stimulates compost so
Valeriana officinalis that Phosphorus
component is properly
used by the soil.

descending season and used or stored in potency of BD peppers. When Rudolf Steiner
earthen pots in a cold, dark location. For began the Biodynamic Agriculture movement in
spraying, 13.5 litres of water and 25g of BD-500 1924 while presenting Agriculture lectures, he
are combined in a plastic bucket by creating developed the technique known as Biodynamic
a vortex for an hour in the evening. The peppering (BD peppering). The peppering
solution is then applied using a natural brush technique can be applied to weedy plants,
or a tree twig. When the field is being prepared insects, and animals.
and the moon is descending, BD-500 is sprayed
[14]. 5.3.1 Peppering by weeds

5.3 Peppering in Biodynamic Farming [Link] Procedure to Make the BD Pepper

A non-chemical technique called "BD peppering" 1. Collect the reproductive organ of the plant.
is used to get rid of undesired plants that are For instance, nut grass plant is taken. The
hard to get rid of with conventional methods. BD plant's nut is collected throughout the
peppering is collecting insects, weed seeds, or month. To ensure that the only material left
dead animal skins and burning them at the is the plant's reproductive organ, all other
right time according to planetary positions organic matter and soil in and around the
and can help solve an unbalanced insect, nut should be removed. When the BD
animal pest, or weed problem. The ash can then pepper is prepared and used, thorough
be made into a homeopathic remedy and weeding of the area three weeks before
sprayed on the land. This works well as a the full moon is advised. Collect at least
biodynamic substitute for chemical sprays. two tablespoons’ worth of nuts.
Consideration of moon and constellation 2. Getting the ash - while the plant's living
positions is an important aspect of enhancing the components are released into the

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atmosphere, the nitrogen, sulphur, [Link] Planetary Aspects in Accordance with

hydrogen, and carbon are separated from BD Peppering
the seeds or tubers during the reproductive
part of the plant's burning process. The  When the sun and Venus are both in
nuts (for nut grass) should be placed in a Scorpio at the same time, burn the
cast iron pot with a lid and burned over a animal's skin. The occurrence of this is
hot fire to produce the ash. It typically not yearly.
takes two hours to boil the nuts until they  Making the pepper on a constellation day
become black and then powder the nuts that corresponds to a fire sign on the full
using a mortar and pestle. moon day will increase its potency. The
3. The day of the full moon is required for the pepper should be created on the full
ashing operation. moon day. This occurs when the moon is
4. The ash is homeopathically potentized in aligned with Aries, Leo, or Sagittarius,
water. After potentizing, the BD pepper with Leo and Sagittarius being the best
liquid should be finished in a dark bottle for all cannabis varieties.
with a dropper on top. Ideal homeopathic  It is best to light the BD pepper on a full
potency is 7-8 times. moon day.
5. The quantity of nuts, after ashed and
potentized, will produce enough BD pepper Hugh Lovell's book Quantum Agriculture, a
to cover a fairly big area for numerous fantastic resource for biodynamics, is where the
applications and be stored out of the light table below is taken from. When deciding which
in a cold environment without electricity full moon day to employ for producing the weed
exposure. pepper, the table that follows provides
constellation relationships to various plant group.
[Link] Application of BD Pepper
Using BD soil preps on a moon in opposition to
 Put 7 droplets of the BD pepper into a Saturn day each month is the best way to use
2
bucket of water for an area under 500 m , them to speed up soil transformation while
then use a brush or switch (long dried performing a BD peppering technique.
grass) to flick out droplets lightly over the
whole area where the weed is growing. If [Link] Giving Back to the Soil
we have a larger area, we can also use a
backpack sprayer. We use a 20-liter With the help of BD peppers, the soil in any
2
sprayer to cover about 4000 m and still locations where we may be cultivating loses the
use 7 drops of the pepper. ability to support weed growth. In this situation, it
 Apply on a full moon day. is quite beneficial to offer a variety of extra
 Depending on our soil management strategies to develop soil life, organic matter, and
methods we may need to apply it monthly the proper balance of minerals, nutrients,
over a few years. It has been found bacteria, fungi, and the numerous life forms that
that consistent biodynamic/organic inhabit wholesome soil. A little more
management of soil around 4 applications management is required but can modify the soil
at 4 succeeding full moons is sufficient to to suit the needs of pasture and agriculture. The
greatly reduce the plants’ reproduction. following suggestions are provided:
 It is important to be aware of seasonal
factors as there will be times of the year a. A monthly application of biodynamic soil
when the weed we want to remove grows activator is made on a day when the moon
much more than other times. When we is in opposition to Saturn. The best day of
undertake certain farming or gardening the month to use this BD preparation,
activities, for example, as soon as we which mixes a number of BD preparations
cultivate, we are more likely to raise weed into a single brew, is today.
seeds to the surface they are more likely to b. Intensively cultivated areas should have
germinate. These seasonal and practice green manure cropping to keep weeds at
times will need closer attention in applying bay.
the BD pepper to ensure it does stop c. Weed transformation:
reproducing, so make should your BD  Weeds are picked up before they can be
pepper application leads up to and include sown and made into a strong weed tea
these times. using BD compost.

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 removing weeds from the soil and sand, wood ash, or made into a
slashing them before they seeded homeopathic remedy that can be sprayed
 putting weeds through a heated outside.
composting process and returning the 4. put out over three days in a row.
compost to the soil. 5. Use during a full moon (associated with
fertility).
5.3.2 Peppering by insects 6. Avoid Mercury's retrograde periods.
7. Use each stage of an insect's life cycle
By collecting the insect, burning it, and
(egg, pupae and adult).
reintroducing it to the soil, peppering effectively
8. Apply again every six months or once a
keeps a particular pest out of the treated region.
year.
[Link] Preparation of BD Pepper by Insects Kirchoff [15] Prior to carrying out this work, they
The pests are burnt to ash after capturing it. The performed preliminary experiments to test the
ash is then sprinkled on top like pepper around effect of Biodynamic seed peppers on the seed
the damaged region. The timing depends on the germination of okra seeds (Abelmoschus
kind of pest and the planetary factors that control esculentus L. Moench). These experiments
their reproduction: yielded negative results after three generations
of treatments. Negative outcomes were also
1. Animals – when the planet Venus is in the obtained in a New Zealand study that examined
constellation of Scorpio. the effects of a biodynamic pepper made from
2. Winged insects – when the Sun is in the burned skin of the brushtail possum
Gemini, and the Moon is in a water sign. (Trichosurus vulpecula Kerr). Similar negative
3. Hard-shelled insects – when the Sun is in outcomes were attained by Bachi-Kunz when he
Taurus and the Moon is in Taurus. used a BD pepper to eradicate the Red Flower
4. Snails and slugs – when the Sun is in Beetle (Tribolium castaneum Herbst). The effects
Cancer and the Moon is in a water sign. of the peppers on seed germination were also
5. Weed seeds – at full Moon or moon is in investigated. Biodynamic agricultural practices
Leo. were used throughout these trials. In the field
experiments, various preparations of the peppers
[Link] Some Points to be Noted during were spread annually on the experimental fields,
Peppering are while no treatment was applied to the control
1. Grab the pest first. A large number of little fields.
insects may be required if we want to get
rid of small insects. The ripe and viable
6. BIODYNAMIC LUNAR CALENDAR
seeds are necessary for dealing with The biodynamic sowing and planting calendar is
weeds. produced each year by the authors Maria and
2. Keep it chilled (in the fridge) until it is time Mathias Thun. It is based on more than forty
to burn it. years of ongoing research into the influences of
3. Place in a tin and totally burn on a very hot the moon, planets, and constellations on plant
fire until it turns to grey ash. Around the growth. It is available from the biodynamic
damaged region, scatter the ashes like Agricultural Association.
pepper. The ash can be combined with fine

Table 2. Constellation relationships to various plant group

Constellation Sign Planet group

Aries Fire Canola, wild raspberries, wild radishes
Taurus Earth Farmers friends, wild carrot, queen Anne’s lace
Cancer Water Buttercups, convolvulus, creeping and climbing weeds
Leo Fire A great variety of weeds
Virgo Earth Thistles, morning glory
Libra Air Daisy family, quick weed
Scorpio Water Solariums, nightshades
Sagittarius Fire Fat hen, couch grass
Aquarius Air Shepherds purse
Pisces Water Grasses, wild oats, bent grass, chick weed

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7. WORKING WITH COSMIC CYCLES sap flow relates to this event, which is seen in
spring tides and can be used by gardeners. It
Every living thing on Earth is created and kept affects activities ABOVE the soil. During this
alive by rhythms, which are frequently governed period Spraying of BD501 is done in the morning.
by cosmic cycles. These cosmological patterns Also, Sowing of Seeds, harvesting of fruits/
are also taken into account by biodynamic seeds/flowers/hay and pruning cuttings for
agriculture. By noticing and using these rhythms Grafting are done in the Ascending period.
in tasks like sowing, transplanting, cultivating,
and harvesting, one may understand how cosmic Table 3. Basic rhythms that can be used in
cycles affect the practical use of biodynamic biodynamic farming
agriculture.
Sl. No. Basic rhythms
8. LUNAR EFFECTS 1. Ascending days (Moon)
2. Descending days (Moon)
The Moon reflects light and pulls the Earth in its
3. Nodes
gravitational field. According to Steiner, this lunar
4. Apogee
effect has an impact on plant growth. The
5. Perigee
gravitational force changes during the period of
6. Full Moon
the Moon's 28-day cycle due to its relatively
7. New Moon
elliptical orbit. When the Moon moves farther
8. Moon opposite Saturn
away from Earth, the Earth feels less of its pull,
9. The Constellations
which in turn improves root growth. Ocean tides
are also caused by this force.
8.2 The Descending Period
 Two days before the new Moon is the ideal
time to plant flowers, fruit, and vegetable The descending period is when the moon moves
seeds since the following seven days will into the southern hemisphere. During this period,
have better light and gravity conditions. the energy flow is towards the earth’s centre.
 Over the course of the following seven Now, these forces are shifted to apply more force
nights, the Moon gets bigger as it gets in the plant's lower reaches (everything in the
closer to a full Moon. Young shoots grow soil). It affects activities BELOW the soil. During
and the roots rest as more light and this period, cultivation of Soil; application,
gravitational attraction are directed toward planting and digging of BD500 (evening); Making
stimulating the growth of the foliage. and spreading of Compost/CPP/Liquid Manure;
 The growth of the foliage is slowed down transplanting and Pruning and harvesting of root
for seven days after the full Moon by a crops are done.
reduction in light, but roots can grow
because of the gravitational force. It is now 8.3 Perigee (Poornima)
an excellent time to transplant seedlings
since it improves the conditions for the At perigee, when the moon is closest to earth,
roots to grow. plants are more vulnerable to fungal diseases
 As the lunar cycle comes to an end, the because of high moisture in the atmosphere.
light continues to get softer as the
gravitational pull gets stronger, allowing 8.4 Apogee
foliage and roots to rest in preparation for
the next Moon of the coming lunar cycle. An ideal time to plant tuber crops is when the
moon is the farthest away.
In this calendar, we describe some of the basic
rhythms that can be used in Biodynamic 8.5 Rahu
Farming.
Agricultural activities are not recommended when
8.1 The Ascending Period the lunar node is in an ascending lunar phase.

The ascending period is when the moon moves 8.6 Ketu

into the northern hemisphere. During this period,
the energy flow from the Earth's centre to the Agricultural operations are not recommended
cosmic perimeter is given more attention during when the lunar node is in the descending phase
the ascending phase. The strength of a plant's of the moon.

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9. BENEFICIAL PERIODS agriculture. This review of biodynamic agriculture

after reviewing many articles, and research, it
9.1 Full Moon has been concluded that there is not enough
evidence to prove biodynamic agriculture as a
It is a time of high humidity and high-water productive method. A study conducted by Radha
content in sap and occurs 48 hours before the and Rao [7] concluded that there is a presence of
full moon. During this period utilize the actinomycetes in CPP due to the addition of
advantages of the moon. Activities include calcium during the preparation. CPP stimulates
planting seeds and applying liquid manure, CPP, plant growth by providing nutrients, and plant
or plant nutrients. It is the optimal time for hormones and protects the plants’ root zone
fungus, insect, pest, and weed control. against fungal diseases with bacteria and
actinomycetes producing HCN and siderophores.
9.2 Moon Opposite Saturn It is found that the increase in bacteria might be
Calcium-Silicon forces are perfectly balanced for due to inoculation of BD 502-507 during CPP
48 hours before Moon Opposite Saturn. Activities preparation. Another study by Jayasree and
that can be done during this period include George [12] reported that application of two
transplanting and sowing. To enhance the flavour biodynamic preparations (BD 500 and BD 501) in
and maintain the freshness of fruits and chilli by adopting a biodynamic calendar resulted
vegetables, use BD501 and aerial sprays. Also, it in better fruit quality of chilli. Trivedi et al,2013
improves plant resistance against fungus. revealed BD 501 and botanical neem oil resulted
not only in the maximum increase in yield
10. STRESS PERIODS attributes and yield but also significantly reduced
the disease incidence of black gram under an
1. New Moon: the 48 hours before the full organic production system. In 2016 a study
moon is a period of great stress. conducted by Kirchoff on BD peppering to test
2. The moon blocks the beneficial influence the effects of biodynamic seed peppers on seed
of the sun. Avoid ALL Agricultural germination of okra seeds yielded negative
Activities. results after three generation of treatments.
3. Nodes: +- 6 hours. Nodes are like mini Similar negative results were obtained by Bachi-
eclipses & again periods of great stress. Kunz using a BD pepper to control the Red
Avoid ALL agricultural activity. Flower Beetle. After a thorough study of all the
4. Apogee & Perigee: Avoid seed sowing for above cases, it can be concluded that
12 hours on either side. It has been biodynamic agriculture and its different
discovered that planting potatoes at preparations provide different kinds of benefits to
Apogee is advantageous. the environment, to the soil, to humans, etc. It is
basically a form of sustainable agriculture. But
11. BIODYNAMIC CERTIFICATION further studies, research and awareness could
be conducted to broaden our knowledge in this
The Demeter biodynamic certification system field to develop more practical innovative
established in 1924 was the first certification and activities.
labelling system for organic production [16].
Demeter certification is awarded to farms and COMPETING INTERESTS
handlers who meet or exceed the minimum
standards set by Demeter International. To Authors have declared that no competing
achieve Demeter certification, a farm must interests exist.
adhere to the following requirements, including:
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