Biodynamic

Organic, and then some.

In addition to organic practices, biodynamic farmers use special practices (such as using solar and lunar cycles to plant) and mineral and herbal preparations for the soil (such as burying manurefilled cow horns in their fields).

Biodynamic farmers tend to view their land as a self-sustainable organism. Advocates for biodynamic farming and gardening say that the fruit and vegetables it produces are superior to even organic ones.

Photo: Cookingupastory/Flickr

tomato hornworm parasitized by braconid wasp larvae

How baby wasps can save your tomatoes

July 13, 2016, 7:05 a.m. by Russell McLendon

Hornworm caterpillars ruin tomato plants, but look closely before killing one. Mother Nature may be on the job, and she's better at it.

Bats save corn farmers $1 billion per year

September 15, 2015, 7:30 a.m. by Russell McLendon

Cornfields without bats are infested by nearly 60 percent more moth larvae, researchers say.

For safer, cheaper pest control, just add ants

September 1, 2015, 9:30 a.m. by Russell McLendon

Ants offer a surprisingly effective alternative to synthetic pesticides, according to a new research review.

Pesticide alters personalities of helpful spiders

August 10, 2015, 4:50 p.m. by Russell McLendon

Pest-killing spiders behave differently after exposure to a common insecticide, a new study finds.

What is a GSM wine blend?

May 19, 2015, 1:18 p.m. by Robin Shreeves

When grenache is blended with two other grapes, it's abbreviated as GSM. Here's what else you need to know.

Biodynamic gardening takes holistic approach to the soil

November 9, 2014, 12:18 p.m. by Tom Oder

Method creates a healthy system of plants, animals and soil while considering celestial effects on life.

Avignonesi Vino Nobile: A biodynamic 100% Sangiovese wine

June 20, 2014, 1:10 p.m. by Robin Shreeves

From the Montepulciano region of Italy comes a rich, spicy wine from Italy’s largest winery, which is embracing biodynamic practices.

New book highlights California’s sustainable winegrowing

April 18, 2014, 5:26 p.m. by Robin Shreeves

“Down to Earth” highlights the sustainability inititaives at several of California’s wineries and opens up your sustainable wine choices.

Christmas dinner wine pairings made easy

December 23, 2013, 9:41 a.m. by Robin Shreeves

Turkey? Roast beef? Lasagna? Vegetarian? Ham? Whatever your Christmas dinner, I have a great sustainable wine choice to take the guesswork out of pairing.