The Garden

Raphael Garden, with its raised beds, orchards, and pasture, is located at the center of the 13-acre Rudolf Steiner College campus. Raphael Garden is a fully functional, Demeter-certified, biodynamic urban farm. With three acres from Rudolf Steiner College and financial support from the Raphael Association, Harald Hoven founded Raphael Garden in 1987 and subsequently the CSA (see below) in 1993. The gifts of these institutions, together with the dedication of many volunteers and apprentices, have made possible the thriving farm you see today.

Raphael Garden supports year-round vegetables and seasonal fruit for a 40-member CSA, a large seed saving operation, and the beauty and serenity of a diverse plant and flower life. Chickens, ducks, sheep, and a cow grace the site with animal presence and products. Beehives nestle under trees near the manure compost. The plant compost rests in the shade of the olive grove. A small greenhouse nurtures tender seedlings while vegetable crops in raised beds line the slope overlooking the orchard. At the center of it all, flower beds encircle a small pond and it's melodic flow form.

Raphael Garden provides for most of its needs from within the farm individuality. Soil fertility is maintained by composted garden and kitchen waste, cow and sheep manure, and the use of cover crops and crop rotations. Biodynamic compost and spray preparations, made on the farm itself or in cooperation with other local farms, are used rhythmically throughout the seasons to enhance life forces.

Thanks to the comprehensive seed saving operation, most of the seeds for next season's crops are grown right on the farm. This sustainable practice strengthens the farm's plant life by giving plants the opportunity to adapt to the environment over generations. Enough seed is produced to sell nationwide, where it is in particular demand due to its enhanced vitality.

The CSA (Community Supported Agriculture)

The foundation of Raphael Garden is the community that supports it; the 40+ shareholders that form the Raphael Garden CSA. Members of the CSA purchase annual shares and in return receive weekly baskets of garden bounty. Members work together to distribute the produce, tend the crops on Garden Days, create a shareholder newsletter, and plan for the future. The shareholders keep Raphael Garden viable, ensuring this little gem continues to shine at the heart of Rudolf Steiner College. In return, the garden sustains its shareholders with healthy, life enhancing, biodynamic produce.

For information on becoming a shareholder in the Raphael Garden CSA, contact Harald Hoven, 916-965-0389.