Applied Biodynamics — Issue 091 (Spring/Summer 2017)

Issue 091 is a practice-dense, transitional issue combining deep orchard-based biodynamics, specific horticultural techniques, seasonal preparation protocols, and institutional reflection.

In “Threshold Farm — Fundamental Biodynamics,” M. Biltonen interviews orchardists Hugh Williams and Hanna Bail, presenting Threshold Farm as a long-term example of biodynamics practiced without external fertility inputs. The article details the farm’s closed-loop system, including livestock integration for manure, on-farm compost production, and consistent preparation making. Specific attention is given to orchard soil structure, humus development over decades, and the cumulative effects of restrained intervention. Williams emphasizes learning through observation rather than prescription, noting how tree vigor, fruit quality, and disease resistance are evaluated year over year rather than through single-season yield metrics.

The interview further documents orchard layout, pruning philosophy, and the timing of cultivation relative to soil moisture and temperature. Preparation use is discussed in relation to tree age, seasonal phase, and weather conditions, with BD 500 applied to support root activity and BD 501 used cautiously to influence light processes during fruit development. The article functions as a case study in fundamental biodynamics, emphasizing continuity, patience, and experiential knowledge.

“Fruit Thinning for Balance, Taking Cuttings for Grafting” provides applied horticultural instruction rooted in biodynamic observation. The article outlines criteria for fruit thinning based on branch strength, previous bearing cycles, and overall tree balance. Thinning is presented not as yield optimization but as long-term tree health management. The grafting section details the timing of taking cuttings, storage conditions, and alignment with sap flow and seasonal rhythms, emphasizing success rates observed through careful timing rather than varietal manipulation.

In “History, Impact, and Fate of Skyline Organic Farm in Topanga Canyon,” K. Moneymaker records a detailed conversation with Stefan Hagopian. The article documents the development of a biodynamic farm in a peri-urban, environmentally sensitive region, including soil building, preparation use, and community engagement. Despite agronomic success, the farm faced mounting regulatory and zoning pressures. The article serves as a cautionary case study, distinguishing between biological viability and institutional survivability.

“Spring and Summer Use of the Biodynamic Preparations,” by Abigail Porter, provides season-specific guidance on preparation application during the outward-growing part of the year. The article specifies timing, dilution, and application conditions for BD 500, BD 501, and associated sprays, noting temperature thresholds, moisture conditions, and crop stage. Observational indicators such as leaf posture, internode spacing, and plant resilience are used to evaluate effectiveness. The article emphasizes restraint, warning against overuse during periods of heat or drought.

The issue concludes with a cluster of organizational and governance articles. “Transition, Hope, and Service to Community: Reflections Upon 2016 at JPI” documents preparation work, educational outreach, and community engagement. “JPI Search for New Executive Leadership,” “JPI Board of Director News,” “Call for Board Members,” “Welcome New Editors,” and “World Biodynamic Farming Day” collectively outline leadership transition, institutional continuity, and international recognition of biodynamic agriculture.

Articles

• Threshold Farm ― Fundamental Biodynamics, Interview with orchardist Hugh Williams and Hanna Bail (M. Biltonen) 
• Fruit Thinning for Balance, Taking Cuttings for Grafting  History, Impact, and Fate of Skyline Organic Farm in Topanga  Canyon: A Conversation with Stefan Hagopian (K.  Moneymaker)  
• Spring and Summer Use of the Biodynamic Preparations (A.  Porter)  
• Transition, Hope, and Service to Community: Reflections Upon 2016 at JPI (P. Frazier)  
• JPI Search for New Executive Leadership (P. Frazier) 
• JPI Board of Director News (P. Frazier)  
• Call for Board Members  
• Welcome New Editors 
• World Biodynamic Farming Day 

Key Topics Covered

• Closed-loop biodynamic orchard systems
• Long-term soil and humus development
• Observation-based orchard evaluation
• Fruit thinning for structural balance
• Timing and storage of grafting cuttings
• Seasonal use of BD 500 and BD 501
• Preparation restraint during high heat
• Regulatory challenges to biodynamic farms
• Institutional transition at JPI

Citation

Applied Biodynamics, Issue 091, Josephine Porter Institute for Applied Biodynamics, Spring/Summer 2017.