Potting soils

At the beginning of February we start with the first greenhouse plantings. The selection of suitable potting soils is an important prerequisite for successful plant rearing. As the most important organ, they are responsible for the growth and health of the plants. For our potting soils we therefore use selected and best composts from our own production. These have usually been turned twice a year by hand. They are also treated with the biodynamic compost preparations prepared in the WALA garden from the medicinal plants valerian, stinging nettle, oak, chamomile, dandelion and yarrow. The addition of these preparations lastingly enhances the vital forces and processes in soil and plant. In addition they increase the vitality of the plants and the soil and their resistance against disease and pests.

Seed baths

The seed baths also have a positive influence on the vitality and growth of the plants. They are prepared with some of the biodynamic compost preparations already mentioned above with the addition of other herbs. Valerian, for example, stimulates the germination phase and the warmth processes of the plants. The oak bark preparation and chamomile prevent fungal infections while the horn manure preparation stimulates the growth of the roots. The seeds are placed in the hand-warm seed bath for 10-15 minutes in cloth bags. When they have been dried, they are ready for sowing. The only exception are the fine seeds of the light-dependent germinators such as marjoram, tobacco or wormwood. These are planted directly into the seed boxes, pressed down gently and then sprayed finely with the seed bath fluid.

Care of the seedlings

When the seedlings have fully developed their plumule leaves they are transplanted singly or in groups from the seed box into plant boxes or frames. Here they have the necessary leaf and root space to develop into strong, healthy young plants. After a further phase of development they are potted and, when the roots are well developed, later planted out.

Seed quality quality

The quality of the seeds is an important factor. We harvest most of our seeds from the WALA garden. This is done from early summer to autumn. It is important to find the optimum harvesting time to ensure good germinating capacity of the seed the following year. After harvesting, the seeds are stored in a dry place to mature further. During the winter months they are cleaned and stored in a cool place in suitable, carefully labeled containers until they are used for the next planting.

Documentation

All planting information such as sowing dates, beginning of germination, source, varieties, transplanting and potting, seed harvesting etc., are carefully documented in the "Cultivation Files - Medicinal Plants".