The biodynamic difference
Biodynamic farming principles are intricate and quite detailed.
For more information please visit http://www.biodynamics.net.au. This deluxe form of sustainable organic farming provides the rigorous practices and environment resulting in particularly healthy, stress and disease resistant plants. The result is top quality produce with a good shelf life.
Patrice Newell has been the custodian of Elmswood Farm for 24 years and no chemicals have been used on the farm. It's certified Bio-dynamic.
As well as observing optimal planting times and intricate soil preparation procedures, it is the hand weeding that is the significant extra effort that deserves mention.
Whilst ordinary Australian garlic crops can be inexpensively sprayed with herbicides to control weeds, organic/BD farmers must get down on the hands and knees and pull weeds from between the bulbs. This is a lengthy and slow process, but it's important for the garlic crop, as weeds rob moisture and nutrients.
A Message from Roger
I can't take any of the credit for the garlic itself! The risks and the hard work have been done by Patrice and her talented and dedicated team on the farm. But as an Honours degree qualified Agricultural economist, who's worked closely amongst all manner of crops from broadacre wheat, to mangoes, potatoes,baby English spinach, zucchini and now garlic, I get to see a lot of different farming practices. Patrice's talents, hard work, fastidiousness, the mysticism of Bio dynamic farming practices or good weather - you can decide which, but whatever, I say it works.
During the last decade I've dedicated most of my time retailing organic fruit and vegetables. I love the opportunity to taste, discern and endorse quality organic/BD food and help city people become better connected to farmers. I enjoy the process of getting to know growers, nibbling garlic cloves at all odd hours of the day, visiting markets, paddocks and enjoying the fruits of the land in my own kitchen.
