As people search for alternatives to chemical pesticides and fertilisers, and their frightening side effects, we are hopefully able to start working with the appropriate phase of the moon for all aspects of planting, cultivation, and harvesting.
Interdependent research demonstrates a correspondence between the moon’s position in the real, or International Astronomical Union Zodiac, and plant growth.
The synodic cycle (Moon cycle) also controls tidal effects, which are well documented. These involve not just large bodies of water, but also the surface tension of liquids.
At full and new moons, land mass can rise as much as 30cm and tides can be detected in the earth’s atmosphere. So it seems reasonable to suppose that plants, rooted in the earth, pumping water from the soil into the air, and consisting largely of fluid, are affected by these tides.
Mangroves drop their seeds at high tide so that the ebbing waters will carry them to a new location.
However, while the light and tidal cycles are the same length, the tidal cycle has two peaks, the light cycle only one.
Planting according to the astrological sign that the moon occupies is based on the belief that the metaphysical elements, Earth, Air, Fire and Water, are able to influence plants.
When the moon is in an Earth sign, root growth is said to be stimulated; foliage in Water signs; flowers in Air signs; and fruit and seeds in Fire signs. Earth and Water signs are ‘fertile’, and Fire and Air signs ‘barren’.
It is said that the moon phase is the dominant influence in lunar planting.The days of Full Moon and New (or Dark) Moon are best avoided. Use them for celebration, or rest and meditation.
But the Tropical Zodiac used in popular astrology does not correspond completely with the constellations of the same name, which don’t define neat 30 degree segments of a circle, but sections of an ellipse varying from 18 to 46 degrees of arc.
The phase or synodic lunar cycle is said to favour above-ground processes while the moon is waxing and light increases, and below-ground processes as the moon is waning.
NEW MOON PHASE - 12 hours after Dark Moon to First Quarter
This is the time when every living thing feels an upsurge of energy - the sap is rising. A great time to plant or to start any projects, although some believe that it is better to wait until you can actually see the crescent of the New Moon. Plant, graft and transplant annuals that produce above ground, especially those of a leafy kind that produce seeds outside the fruit, also cereals and grains. This is a time when you are advised not to pick anything as it rots too easily at this time.
This is a good time to mow lawns to increase growth.
FIRST QUARTER PHASE - First Quarter to 12 hours before Full Moon
The energy (and the sap) is still fresh rising - this is a good phase for starting anything. Plant, graft and transplant annuals that produce above ground, especially of a vine-type with seeds produced inside (like beans, peas, peppers, squash and tomatoes). Plant cereals and grains. All activities listed for the New Moon phase are just as successful if done now. The last two days of this phase, just before the Full Moon are considered optimum for planting, and grafts take best if done at this time.
First quarter planting, or the time from the new moon to about half-full: Plant annuals with above-ground yields, particularly leafy plants. Examples: asparagus cabbage, celery, endive, and spinach. Second quarter planting, or the time from the half-full to the full moon:
Plant annuals that have above-ground yields which are vining and produce seed inside the fruit.
Examples: beans, peas, peppers, squash, eggplant, tomatoes, cucumbers
FULL MOON PHASE - 12 hours after Full Moon to Last quarter.
There is a peaking of the electromagnetic energy of all living things at the exact time of the Full Moon, and then a slow withdrawal of energy for the next two weeks, as the Moon wanes.
Plant perennials, biennials, bulb and root crops and anything that produces below ground. The sap flow is downwards into the roots. Pruning is most successful now, and it is an excellent time to harvest all crops. Medicinal herbs and plants are most potent when picked now. This is a great time for sprouting seeds to eat, but not so good for sprouting seeds for planting, as there is a good initial growth spurt with only spindly follow through. Third quarter planting, or from the full moon to half-full: Plant biennials, perennials, bulb and root crops. Crops which are planted one season then produce yields the following year, trees, and shrubs. Examples: Onions, potatoes, rhubarb, grapes, winter wheat, and berries.
LAST QUARTER PHASE - Last Quarter to 12 hours before Dark Moon
This is a barren phase, where it is most appropriate to rest or to prepare for the next New Moon. It is great for cultivation - pulling weeds, turning the earth, pruning, spraying. Apply organic fertilisers any time during the Waning Moon, from Full Moon onward. Mow lawns to decrease growth. This is the best phase for harvesting crops that you want to store for a period of time without rotting or losing flavour. Transplant close to the end of this period for an easy recovery with little trauma. Set fence posts, spread manure. Weeds pulled now have no strength to sprout again. Fourth quarter planting, or from half-full to new moon: Examples: Pull weeds, cultivate, destroy pests, and turn sod.
For serious gardeners a secondary influence should also be taken into consideration, this being the sign the Moon is found in each day. The blossom, the fruit (or seed), the leaf, and the root of a plant each are stimulated by different Moon signs. Cultivation should be organised to take maximum advantage of this influence, depending on what part of the plant needs accentuation. This indicates the primary lunar influence in effect. Note the signs for each calendar day.
Moon Planting Wife's Tales...
Plant potatoes during the “dark of the moon”. Plant your seeds within 48 hours before a full moon. Do not plant on the day of the New Moon or Full Moon
And then just when you thought you had it all handled there is planning by the star signs as well.
FIRE SIGNS - FRUIT, SEED GROWTH
Aries, Leo, Sagittarius
When you plant in a FIRE sign, the Moon' s influence is channelled into the fruit and seed of the plant. Plant wheat, corn, tomatoes, beans, squash, peas and all fruit.
Harvest fruit and seed crops as well. The very best seeds are obtained from a Fire sign Full Moon. This is an excellent time for any cultivating, or garden preparation. Plant garlic, leeks, onions, peppers or chicory if you are looking for an exceptionally spicy crop.
AIR SIGNS - BLOSSOM GROWTH
Gemini, Libra, Aquarius
When you plant in an AIR sign, the Moon'
s influence is channelled into the blossom growth. Plant all flowers and flowering plants (except cauliflower and broccoli which do better in a Water sign).
EARTH SIGNS - ROOT GROWTH
Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn
When you plant is an EARTH sign, the energy of the Moon is focused into the roots of the plant. Plant carrots, beets, turnips, potatoes, and all tubers. Plant now to produce strong, hardy well-anchored plants. Turn compost heaps. The moon in Capricorn will produce an exceptionally hardy plant which will last through dry weather spells.
WATER SIGNS - LEAF GROWTH
Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces
When you plant in a WATER sign, the energy will go into the leaves. Lettuce, spinach, grass, cabbage, cress, any leafy growth will thrive planted now. This is considered to be the most productive sign, even more so than Earth. Very good for fertilising and irrigating.
So my thoughts are that Moon planting can do little harm and can do a great deal of good for a variety of reasons - not all connected with the moon. For instance it may increase your awareness of natural rhythms, and keep you motivated and well organised
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