Sowing with the Moon: Biodynamic agriculture gains ground

As the globe recognises International Moon Day on 20 July, marking the anniversary of the Apollo 11 landing in 1969, attention turns to the enduring bond between lunar cycles and agriculture.

Biodynamic agriculture, a holistic farming method rooted in cosmic rhythms, sees lunar phases as integral to planting, cultivating, and harvesting. While International Moon Day serves to honour human exploration of the Moon, it also invites reflection on how lunar influence is woven into sustainable farming approaches.

A holistic and cosmic approach to farming

Biodynamic agriculture traces its origins to Rudolf Steiner’s “Agriculture Course” of 1924. It regards the farm as a living organism in which soil, plants, animals, and cosmic forces—including the Moon interact harmoniously. Farmers align their activities with lunar and astrological calendars, believing that gravitational and energetic rhythms can subtly influence seed germination, plant development, and soil vitality. They also utilise distinctive biodynamic preparations such as horn manure and herbal composts to enrich soil health and support microbial life.

What sets biodynamics apart from standard organic farming is its spiritual dimension and its strict view of the farm as a self‑sustaining system. A cornerstone of the philosophy is that a farm should supply all its own fertility, biodiversity, and resources, with minimal external inputs, nurturing long‑term resilience, ecological balance, and environmental stewardship.

Demeter: The global biodynamic standard

As interest in biodynamic produce grows, consumers seek credible certification. That role is filled by Demeter, the only international brand that certifies biodynamic products under rigorous criteria. Established in 1928 and now represented in more than 65 countries, Demeter ensures farms meet standards covering soil fertility, biodiversity, animal welfare, crop rotation, and holistic ecosystem management.

Demeter certification mandates a conversion period, regular audits, and ongoing compliance with the International Demeter Biodynamic Standard. Its logo—the word “Demeter”—appears on products that have been managed through biodynamic practices from soil to shelf, providing consumers with assurance of authenticity and ethical production.

European pioneers in biodynamic food

Several European brands incorporate biodynamic principles, often under Demeter certification. In France, Priméal—part of the Ekibio group—offers a wide array of organic, plant‑based foods and proudly highlights its biodynamic‑Demeter lines. Their canned sauerkraut, green beans, chickpeas, and polenta all carry the Demeter seal, signifying biodynamic origin. Priméal’s work with fair‑trade producers and local supply chains further reflects the holistic ethos of biodynamic farming.

Beyond Priméal, notable European names include Rapunzel Naturkost and Voelkel in Germany, and La Vialla, an organic‑biodynamic estate in Tuscany. These brands integrate Demeter standards into the processing of fermented drinks, vegetable oils, cereals, pulses, wine, and olive oil, offering consumers flavours shaped by lunar‑aligned cultivation and regenerative practices.

As awareness of sustainable farming practices continues to grow, biodynamic agriculture stands out as a method that combines ecological responsibility with a unique philosophical outlook. Whether through the global standards set by Demeter or the commitment of European producers like Priméal, biodynamics offers an alternative approach that prioritises soil health, biodiversity, and long-term viability. On International Moon Day, it provides an opportunity to reflect not only on humanity’s relationship with space but also on the natural rhythms that continue to shape life on Earth.

Image credit: Sanni Sahil – Unsplash

Join us at SIAL Paris as exhibitor Join us at SIAL Paris as visitor