Set of compost preparations 502–507
Contents:
1x yarrow preparation 502
1x chamomile preparation 503
1x stinging nettle preparation 504
1x oak bark preparation 505
1x dandelion preparation 506
1x valerian preparation 507
The biodynamic calendar and knowledge about the preparations can be found at dyyna.bio
What are biodynamic compost preparations?
The biodynamic compost preparations (also called fertiliser preparations) 502 - 507 are natural remedies that promote the growth and quality of plants. They are called compost preparations because they are added to the compost or the manure in order, as it were, to "inoculate" it and to unfold their effect within it.
Specifically, these are preparations made from yarrow (502), chamomile (503), stinging nettle (504), oak bark (505), dandelion (506) and valerian (507). These preparation plants are buried in the ground for at least half a year in organic or, more recently, also plant-based casings (plant-based preparations after Maria Thun) and are prepared in this way.
The biodynamic preparations are the heart of Demeter agriculture. Their use is a prerequisite for Demeter certification.
How do the biodynamic compost preparations work?
The biodynamic compost preparations are introduced in the tiniest quantities into the fertiliser, that is, the manure or compost. From there they unfold their effect on the entire compost or manure heap. The preparations stimulate the conversion processes in the organic fertilisers. The greater enlivening of soils through prepared fertiliser becomes measurable in a number of characteristics, e.g. an increase in humus content or enzyme activity and more intensive root growth. Examples of better product quality through the preparations are lower storage losses, reduced nitrate levels and higher sugar and vitamin contents.
The principle by which the preparations work lies in stimulating harmonising life processes. The preparations have no direct nutrient effect. They thus serve the self-regulation of biological systems.
How are the biodynamic compost preparations applied?
The compost preparations 502-507 are applied as a complete set. To inoculate the compost or manure heap, we proceed as follows:
1. Form preparation balls
So that the tiny amount of preparation is not blown away, we embed each of the solid preparations (i.e. 502-506) individually in a preparation ball.
To do this, we take a handful of mature compost or good garden soil and form a small ball. We press a hollow into the middle of this ball, place a pinch (at most a thimbleful) of each individual preparation in it and close the ball again.
2. Embed the preparation balls in the compost
Depending on how far along the compost or the manure clamp is, we either place the balls in the compost or manure heap while it is still being built, so that they later end up roughly in the middle of the heap, or we make a hole with a stick and put the balls into it. We then close the holes again.
Arrangement of the preparations
The preparations should be placed in a particular arrangement, rather like the 5 on a dice.
Stinging nettle (504) always goes in the middle. Around it, going clockwise and starting at the top left, are placed yarrow 502, oak bark 505, dandelion 506 and chamomile 503.
3. Finish with valerian 507
We now take approx. 1 drop of the liquid valerian preparation 507 per litre and dynamise it for 10-20 minutes in a wooden or stoneware pot or an enamel bucket filled with lukewarm groundwater or rainwater. We pour the dynamised valerian preparation over the compost with a watering can. Finally, we scatter a wafer-thin layer of coconut fibre over the compost to protect the preparations.
Valerian on its own against frost
In the compost heap, the valerian preparation 507 acts as a warmth sheath, enclosing the other preparations.
These warming properties can also be used directly in autumn, winter and spring to protect plants from frost. To do this, we dynamise the preparation as described above and then spray it directly onto the soil or onto the plants.
To protect fruit tree blossom from frost and to mitigate frost damage, we carefully spray the dynamised preparation 507 in very small quantities directly onto the blossom. This can be repeated daily if necessary.