Applied Biodynamics — Issue 075 (Winter 2011–2012)

Issue 075 is a methodological and evidentiary issue, focused on how biodynamics develops, evaluates, and communicates knowledge using defined qualitative methods, controlled comparison, and long-term observation. The issue integrates laboratory-based visualization techniques, historical scientific development, practitioner gatherings, and critical literature review.

The feature interview, “Sensitive Crystallization: Revealing the Life-Forces Behind Biodynamics,” by Hunter Francis, documents the applied work of Philippe Coderey, a French-trained viticulturist and biodynamic consultant. Coderey describes his systematic use of sensitive crystallization, a method developed by Ehrenfried Pfeiffer following indications from Rudolf Steiner. The method involves mixing a standardized copper chloride solution with a test substance and allowing it to evaporate under controlled conditions, producing characteristic crystal patterns.

Coderey specifies strict procedural controls: use of identical Petri dishes, constant temperature (approximately 90°F / 30°C), vibration isolation, fixed solution ratios (1 mL sample, 2 ml purified water, 2 ml 10% copper chloride), overnight evaporation, and replication through multiple parallel crystallizations. He emphasizes the necessity of controls and robust sampling when comparing soils, wines, composts, and biodynamic preparations.

The interview details interpretive frameworks derived from repeated practice: center formation, peripheral mineral expression, cross-hatching density, and overall organization of the crystal field. Comparative examples include wines from abandoned versus intensively managed vineyards; soils and compost before and after application of biodynamic preparations; and horn manure preparations produced under differing climatic and soil moisture conditions. Coderey documents how replication over time, combined with tasting, field observation, and laboratory consistency, informs interpretation rather than single images or isolated tests.

The second major article, “The Scientific Basis of Biodynamics,” by John Bradshaw, presents a historical and methodological analysis of biodynamics as a scientific discipline. Bradshaw situates Rudolf Steiner’s agricultural indications within a broader history of science, noting that inspiration precedes hypothesis but must be followed by systematic testing. The article documents the role of Ehrenfried Pfeiffer in refining preparation methods, establishing application rates, and developing sensitive crystallization; and the work of Lilly and Eugen Kolisko in validating preparation effects through capillary dynamolysis, dilution studies, and planetary rhythm research.

Bradshaw summarizes multi-decade comparative research, particularly from Australia, including controlled studies of stirring methods, compost and soil development, root depth, porosity, water infiltration, nutrient retention, and long-term carbon sequestration. The article emphasizes that biodynamic methods were subjected to repeatable trials, paired comparisons, and third-party analysis, with outcomes assessed over years rather than single seasons. Limits of funding, institutional resistance, and the necessity of long-term research horizons are explicitly acknowledged.

The issue also includes “The Fellowship of Preparation Makers 2012 Annual Conference,” outlining the conference theme of polarity between BD 500 and BD 501. The report describes structured experiential work—grinding quartz, evaluating horn manures, comparative sensory observation—and positions group practice as a means of refining observational skill and preparation quality. Speakers, workshops, and educational aims are documented without introducing new technical claims.

Finally, book reviews assess Sensitive Crystallization – Visualizing the Qualities of Wines by Christian Marcel and Pfeiffer’s Introduction to Biodynamics by Ehrenfried Pfeiffer. The reviews evaluate methodological clarity, fidelity to original protocols, usefulness for comparative assessment, and relevance for both practitioners and researchers.

Across all contributions, Issue 075 presents biodynamics as a field that develops tools for qualitative assessment, insists on procedural consistency, and relies on repetition and comparison to evaluate outcomes that are not immediately reducible to single metrics.

Articles

• Sensitive Crystallization: Revealing the Life-Forces Behind  Biodynamics (H. Francis Interviews Philippe Coderey)
• The  Scientific Basis of Biodynamics (J. Bradshaw)  
• The Fellowship of Preparation Makers 2012 Annual Conference  Book Reviews –
• Newly Received Titles: Sensitive Crystallization – Visualizing the Qualities of Wines by Christian Marcel and  
• Pfeiffer’s Introduction to Biodynamics by Ehrenfried Pfeiffer  (H. Courtney)  

Key Topics Covered

• Sensitive crystallization laboratory method
• Controlled qualitative assessment of soils, wines, compost, and preparations
• Standardized copper chloride crystallization protocol
• Replication and comparative interpretation criteria
• Quality evaluation of BD #500 under differing conditions
• Visualization of compost organization after preparation use
• Historical scientific development of biodynamics
• Capillary dynamolysis and formative force research
• Long-term soil and carbon studies in biodynamic systems
• Preparation makers’ conference on polarity of BD #500 and BD #501
• Critical evaluation of biodynamic literature and methods

Citation

Applied Biodynamics, Issue 075, Josephine Porter Institute for Applied Biodynamics, Winter 2011–2012.