It seems that there really is something to scheduling your planting and gardening tasks with respect to the moon phases, science has even proved it! The theory is based on the effects of the alternating gravitational pulls the Moon has on the ground and soil moisture, much like our ocean’s tides. During the New Moon moisture is highest on the soil surface and as the gravitational pull begins to increase leading to the Full Moon, the moisture distributes downward wicking deeper into the soil.
The 8 Moon phases are split into 4 quarters starting with the New Moon that pulls moisture upwards- a great time to start seeds- proceeding to the 1st quarter as the Moon light increases. This is the best time to plant Above Ground Crops- Annuals & Perennials that produce seeds outside of the fruit- Lettuces, Greens, Chard, Sorrel, Spinach, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Kale, Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts, Strawberries, Celery, Grasses and Grain Crops.
The 2nd quarter approaches the gravitational pull lessons, especially 2 days before full moon. Plant Above Ground Annuals & Crops that produce seed inside of fruit-Beans, Peas, Melons, Cucumbers & Squashes, Eggplant, Peppers and Tomatoes.
During the next phases after the Full Moon, the gravitational pull is high as the light begins to decrease. During the 3rd quarter it is best to plant things Below Ground- Root Crops-Carrots, Potatoes, Garlic, Onions, Bulbs, Perennials, Trees, Shrubs, Mowing Lawn and transplanting OK. In the 4th quarter the gravitational pull decreases with the moonlight becoming a period of rest. This is a great time to Harvest, Cultivate, Fertilize, Prune and Transplant.
I hope this helps you assign your gardening tasks accordingly. I will post each quarter monthly as to what is needed to be done as reminders- follow me on Facebook/herbalelements and Instagram-herbalelements1.
