A dedication to plants, appreciating them in all their complexity and diversity – this is the passion of Matthias Thalmann, who has been caring for the park at Schloss Wartegg near Rorschacherberg, right by Lake Constance, for over two decades. Around the magnificent estate, he exclusively cultivates organic produce. In many cases, he goes a step further, following the Demeter philosophy. The world's oldest organic label is fully committed to what is known as biodynamic agriculture.
"The idea behind Demeter is to cultivate a closed organism," explains Thalmann, "which gives each farm its own individuality." This means no purchased fertilizer and suitable animals on the farm that complement plant cultivation. The requirements for the Demeter label are demanding, but it's worth it. 100% self-sufficiency is not the goal, says Thalmann; instead, the castle garden grows a wealth of specialties and time-tested varieties that guests can also experience on their plates. More taste, more freshness, more regionality – this is how a diverse offering of herbs, cut flowers, and vegetables complements the already thoughtfully designed garden of Schloss Wartegg.
With great attention to detail, Thalmann and his team produce the Demeter preparations themselves, from special manure for plant germination to pebbles that promote ripening quality. They always keep the big picture in mind. It sometimes happens that seeds are sown according to specific natural rhythms: "We've conducted experiments and found that sowing just before a full moon works very well," says Thalmann, adding: "but sometimes it just takes intuition. Then I simply think to myself that today is a particularly good day for sowing."
Matthias Thalmann on his connection to the garden
