Growing Medicinal Plants: Biodynamics & Living Soil with Crystal Chamberlain

Thinking about starting a medicinal herb garden but not sure where to begin?In this episode of The Dancing Willow, Elliott sits down with Crystal of Growing Creations Herb Farm for a rich, grounded conversation about biodynamic growing, medicinal herb farming in the high desert, and what it really looks like to build relationship with plants from seed to medicine.Crystal shares her journey into herbalism and farming after a life-changing pivot in 2020, and how biodynamics, permaculture, and deep listening to the land now guide everything she grows. From cow horn preparations and planting by the lunar calendar to worms appearing once the soil is loved back to life, this episode is a dose of inspiration before the growing season begins. Together, Elliott and Crystal explore:What biodynamic farming really is, and how it differs from organic gardeningHow Crystal transformed clay-heavy, dry land into vibrant, living soilChoosing plants that call to you, and letting some plants choose youFavorite medicinal herbs to grow (and which ones were surprisingly challenging)Creating balanced ecosystems where insects, birds, and predators work togetherInside Crystal’s wallopini (pit greenhouse) and how it extends the growing seasonDrying, harvesting, and working with herbs to preserve their vitalityTurning plants into salves, teas, tinctures, and everyday medicineWhy seeing plants growing in the earth changes how we understand herbalismThis episode is perfect for gardeners, herbalists, and anyone curious about growing their own medicine, whether you’re dreaming of a full herb farm or just a few pots on a patio.✨ Plus, Crystal shares details about an upcoming June plant sale at Dancing Willow Herbs, where locals in Durango, CO can purchase medicinal herb starts grown with care and intention! Save the dates June 5th, 6th and 7th from 11-3 PM at Dancing Willow Herbs, 1018 Main Ave in Durango! Links & Resources:Website: growingcreationfarm.usInstagram & Facebook: Growing Creations Herb FarmShop Dancing Willow Herb Fresh Plant Tincture Collection sourced from local farms like Crystal’s: https://dancingwillowherbs.com/collections/fresh-plant-tincturesLet this conversation inspire you to slow down, get your hands in the soil, and see what begins to grow. 🌱Stay ConnectedIf you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share with others who would love it.Support the podcast by making a purchase with Dancing Willow Herbs!Website: www.dancingwillowherbs.comInstagram: @dancingwillowherbsco