Demeter certification requires the use of Biodynamic® preparations. There are nine preparations made from herbs, minerals and manures. These preparations are applied to the soil and vineyards in very small doses using Biodynamic calendars to guide the timing of applications. The results of the preparations benefit the soil fertility with increased microorganism development and photosynthetic activity.
Timing is critical to Biodynamic farming, so making and applying the proper preparations is of the utmost importance to the success and overall health of the ecosystem at Bonterra Organic Vineyards. By adding fermented manure at the beginning of the season the fertility of the soil is enhanced, while adding quartz at the height of production helps the plants make the most of summer sunlight.