This workshop on biodynamic seeds is an opportunity for newcomers to learn more about growing and saving seeds on biodynamic farms and gardens and for those already involved in producing seed and maintaining varieties to share experiences and deepen their understanding. 

Guest contributor Ute Kirchgaesser who works as a biodynamic plant breeder with Kultursaat, the German biodynamic plant breeding trust, will be describing some of the key principles of biodynamic plant breeding and describe how they are put into practice using a new beetroot variety as an example. She will also share the results of some fascinating research into the effects of tone and music and how they can be used to improve and develop new varieties.

Although the main focus will be on vegetable seeds, work with farm seeds is equally necessary. A  biodynamic farmer has been invited to speak about the growing of clover for seed. David Hampton who runs a well established biodynamic farm in Essex, plans to supply clover seed to the organic market in the coming year. He has many years experience in clover seed production. There is also a space in the programme for members of the Biodynamic Seed Group to share their experiences and develop future plans.

Programme

Thursday 18th

13.30   Arrival/registration

14.30   Introductions

16.30   Seed Production at Stormy Hall, Botton – Hans Steenbergen

18.00   Supper (Ruskin mill Café)

19.30   Growing Clover for Seed – David Hampton

Friday 19th

9.00     Principles of selection with special reference to the new beetroot variety “Jannis”- Ute Kirchgaesser

10.30   Break

11.00   Research into the effects of tone and music in plant breeding – Ute Kirchgaesser

12.30   Lunch (Ruskn Mill Café)

13.45   Visit to Gables farm and its seed equipment

16.00   Break

16.30   Plant breeding, genetics and questions of heredity  – Ute Kirchgaesser

18.00   Supper break

19.30   Biodynamic Plant Breeding in Germany  – public talk by Ute Kirchgaesser

Saturday 20th

9.00     Sharing work of UK seed group

10.30    Break

11.00    Concluding plenum

12.30   Close and lunch (Ruskin Mill Café)

Venue: Ruskin Mill, Old Bristol Road, Nailsworth, Glos. Gl6 0LA  

 Ruskin Mill, in Nailsworth, is an educational establishment with extensive biodynamic gardens, fish ponds, farm and woodlands. The on-site cafe provides delicious vegetarian meals sourced largely from the land.

Directions: On arrival in Nailsworth from Stroud, go straight over the roundabout following the A46 to Bath. Take the second turning right on to the Old Bristol Road towards Horsley, follow this road until you arrive at Ruskin Mill on the left. The car park is small so it would be more convenient if you parked at Horsley Mill which is the next turning on the left. Follow the footpath back through the valley to reach the main building at Ruskin Mill.

Booking: Please fill in and return the attached booking form with your payment to: Biodynamic Agricultural Association, Painswick Inn Project, Gloucester Street, Stroud GL5 1QG

Cost: £95 (£85 concessions) Includes one meal each day and refreshments