Seed as a cultural asset
Seed is an ongoing topic in the Section. We are working on three strands of this at present:
- How can biodynamic plant breeding be financed in the long term? We are working with a network for the implementation of the idea of a crop plant pro mille fund.
- In Demeter vegetable growing, hybrid varieties are frowned on in theory but in practice are widespread: how can we resolve this contradiction? A core group has started work on this.
- Continuing professional development for breeders: the third professional development week for those working in biodynamic breeding initiatives took place in January 2019. The Section is a partner in this initiative which is organised by the Fund for Crop Plant Development.
Ueli Hurter
19-21 March 2020, at the Goetheanum, Dornach, Switzerland
As a biodynamic community we want to grow open-pollinated varieties that we have bred ourselves and this is what we communicate. At the same time, in commercial biodynamic vegetable growing hybrid varieties from the big seed companies have a strong presence on the market. In order to discuss and resolve this dilemma, the Section, in collaboration with Demeter International, is launching a process lasting several years.
Further information: Meeting of experts "Biodynamic agriculture and hybrid varieties - a step to solving a dilemma"
Breeding as a source for real economy, law and culture
February 8, 2017, the authors Johannes Wirz, Ueli Hurter and Peter Kunz presented the final study of their project "Seeds as a commons" to the public in the rooms of the cereal breeder Peter Kunz in Feldbach.
English
Seeds as a Commons: Breeding as a source for real economy, law and culture, 2017, PDF
german:
Saatgut - Gemeingut - Züchtung als Quelle von Realwirtschaft, Recht und Kultur, 2. Auflage 2017, PDF
Bingenheimer Saatgut
http://www.bingenheimersaatgut.de/
Darzau Getreidezüchtungsforschung
http://www.darzau.de/
Züchtungsforschung Dottenfelderhof
https://www.dottenfelderhof.de/forschungzuechtung/uebersicht/
Getreidezüchtung Peter Kunz
http://www.getreidezuechtung.ch/
Hortus Officinarum
http://www.hortus-officinarum.ch/
Keyserlingk Institut
http://www.saatgut-forschung.de/
Kultursaat
http://www.kultursaat.org/
Poma Culta - Apflezüchtung
www.pomaculta.org
ReinSaat
http://www.reinsaat.co.at/
Sativa - Ökologisches Pflanz- und Saatgut
http://shop.sativa-rheinau.ch/
Stormy Hall Seeds
http://www.stormy-hall-seeds.co.uk/