Building a biodynamic compost heap

Compost is nature’s way of returning the energy of plants back into the ground to nourish the next growing season. As human beings we can participate in this process consciously and add elements into this composting process that draw a new quality into the natural processes. These elements are the preparations that make for a biodynamic compost heap. Daniel had prepared for the building of the compost heap by gathering the components that go into making compost. Most of this is the dead and dying material that nature sheds at the end of the growing season. Into this is added some freshly cut organic material, some well matured compost and the manure of animals fed on pure natural plant feed. Some mineral components are added and when everything has been beautifully layered and moistened, the biodynamic preparations are added. Then we wait six to nine months for nature to do what it does best. The compost that was made last year has nourished parts of the gardens already.

​An enthusiastic small group gathered on Youth Day at 14h00 to build the biodynamic compost heap and then to spray the entire property with Preparation 500. A lot of meaningful conversation introduced those present to all the concepts of biodynamic compost making. When all the Preparation 500 had been spread, the tea and coffee was consumed and happy, weary people turned to home.

Photos are courtesy of Natalie Gerike.