Welcome to the blog of Johnathan Grieve.
I am the proprietor of Avondale wine estate, and pioneer of the BioLOGIC® approach to sustainable viticulture. The transformation of Avondale from over-used and abused land into a thriving, robust vineyard ecosystem has been a personal learning journey of more than a decade long. This blog is where I share some of what I have learnt about promoting life on our farm and the wonderful impact this has had on our handcrafted premium quality wines.
Johnathan Grieve
A Summary of my Biodynamic Preparation posts
Over the last year, I have introduced each biodynamic preparation and given an explanation of how I make them, and why and when they are used.
Chickens rule the roost at Avondale
As part of our commitment to the Circle of Life, we have recently introduced chickens to Avondale. We have a mix of Rhode Island Reds, Leghorns and Koekoeks, plus 5 Buff Orpingtons – these are all multipurpose chickens being good layers and scavengers who enjoy a wide variety in their diets so in essence great free range breeds.
What and why Biodynamic Preparation BD508?
BD508 is a biodynamic preparation also known as Horsetail (Equisetum Arvense) Preparation. It is a ferment or ‘tea’ style preparation that can be applied direct to the soil, plant or atmosphere. Its purpose is to regulate the watery element brought on by too strong or too weak moon forces.
Drought and the importance of humus creation
South Africa is suffering from a drought and many farmers are experiencing crop failure, or decreased harvests. Never has the condition of our soil health been more important.
Ensuring that the soil is balanced and can provide all the nutrients required for healthy plant and micro life has always been a key factor in biodynamic agriculture.
What and Why Biodynamic Preparation BD507
DB507 is a compost preparation made from Valerian (Valeriana Officinalis), a perennial herbaceous plant with triangular or prism-like leaves which have a very distinct vein structure. The triangular shape of the leaves indicates its relationship with light and light forces. Valerian is also associated with warmth and is linked to the planet Saturn.
What, and Why Biodynamic Preparation BD506?
The main reason dandelions are used is because of their strong relationship with silica; specifically a powerful potassium/silica relationship occurring within the plant. This preparation harnesses this strength and allows its influence to be utilised in compost production and ultimately in our vineyards.
What, and Why Biodynamic Preparation BD505?
Oak Bark preparation is the fourth of the compost preparations; this preparation specifically influences Calcium and to a degree phosphate within nature. Calcium and the calcium realm within plant life bring balance and harmony to growth. Specifically it is extremely important to regulate excessive growth in the growing season which of course has the danger to be imbalanced and create perfect conditions for disease.