Difference Between Two Popular Farming Techniques: Biodynamic Farming & Organic Farming

Organic farming focuses on natural and sustainable methods of food production, whereas biodynamic farming takes this approach further by incorporating spiritual and mystical aspects into farming practices.

Biodynamic and organic farming are both alternative methods of farming that aim to produce crops without the use of synthetic chemicals or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). However, there are some key differences between the two methods, including their underlying philosophies, practices, and certifications.

Organic Farming

Organic farming is a method of farming that emphasizes the use of natural inputs and techniques to enhance soil fertility and control pests and diseases. Organic farmers use a variety of techniques such as crop rotation, composting, cover cropping, and natural pest management to build healthy soil and promote plant growth.

Organic farming is regulated by the National Organic Program (NOP) in the United States and by similar regulatory bodies in other countries. To be certified organic, farmers must follow a strict set of guidelines, including the use of organic seeds and the prohibition of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and GMOs. Organic farming also places a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Biodynamic Farming

Biodynamic farming is a method of farming that goes beyond organic farming, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living things and the rhythms of nature. Developed by Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner in the 1920s, biodynamic farming is based on a series of principles and practices aimed at creating a self-sustaining, holistic farm ecosystem.

Biodynamic farmers use techniques such as crop rotation, composting, and cover cropping, similar to organic farmers. However, biodynamic farming also involves the use of specialized preparations made from herbs, minerals, and animal manure, which are applied to the soil and crops in specific ways to enhance their health and vitality.

Biodynamic farming also involves a set of practices that are aligned with the rhythms of the moon and stars, such as planting, harvesting, and pruning according to a lunar calendar. Additionally, biodynamic farming emphasizes the role of farm animals in maintaining a healthy ecosystem, with animals often raised on the farm and integrated into the farming system.

Here's a tabular comparison between Organic and Biodynamic farming:

Aspect	Organic Farming	Biodynamic Farming
Philosophy	Focuses on the use of natural and sustainable farming methods to produce food while avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).	Similar to organic farming, but also emphasizes the spiritual and mystical aspects of farming by incorporating lunar and astrological cycles, as well as herbal and mineral preparations.
Soil Management	Uses natural methods to manage soil health, such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and composting.	Similar to organic farming, but also uses preparations made from manure, herbs, and minerals to enhance soil fertility and health.
Pest & Disease Control	Uses natural methods to control pests and diseases, such as crop rotation, beneficial insects, and biological control agents.	Similar to organic farming, but also uses biodynamic preparations to control pests and diseases, which are made from herbs, minerals, and animal manure.
Planting & Harvesting	Emphasizes the use of non-GMO seeds and avoids the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.	Similar to organic farming, but also takes into account the lunar and astrological cycles to determine when to plant and harvest crops.
Livestock Management	Requires that animals are raised in a natural and humane environment, with access to the outdoors and a diet of organic feed.	Similar to organic farming, but also emphasizes the spiritual and mystical aspects of animal husbandry by incorporating lunar and astrological cycles and biodynamic preparations into livestock management.
Certification	Requires certification from a third-party organization to ensure that the farm meets specific organic standards.	Similar to organic farming, but also requires certification from a biodynamic organization, such as Demeter, which ensures that the farm meets specific biodynamic standards.