SPRING SPRAYING

On the first full moon in Spring, we carry out the first biodynamic spray of the growing season using the Preparation 500. This biodynamic preparation is made from cow manure that is fermented in a cow horn buried in the soil over the winter months. 

Our first cow horn burial took place last year in May 2023. We had to find organic cows of course so that our manure was organic. Thanks to Margaret River Organic Farmer, who lives down the road, (www.mrorganicfarmer.com) we have had enough Preparation 500 for the last two seasons. Our biodynamic and wine guru Jon (farm manager) also sourced plenty of cow horns which were to be filled. It was a freezing morning in May and we went with buckets, jackets and gloves to pick up our manure (by hand).

The horns were dug up in the summer of 2024 and their contents are stored for future use. When it comes time to spray in spring, a small amount of the preparation is stirred in water which is then sprayed across the vineyard soil.

We’ve been spraying Preparation 500 on our soils in the Autumn and Spring for two year now and we are starting to see the results. Our vineyard is looking healthy with a diverse range of plant species attracting bees and other pollinators in the midrows and the vines themselves vigorous with new spring growth.