People have been planting according to the moon for ages. Many consider it to be a superstition, but there is scientific proof that supports it! When you garden according to the moon you're actually working with the rhythm of nature.
Gardening with the moon can affect plant growth and planting during the right times can help your plants grow stronger. Like the sun, the moon also plays a big role on how productive your plants are. Depending on what stage the moon is in, the levels of moisture in your soil will change.
There are four quarters in a moon cycle and two periods in specific you need to pay attention to:
(1) Waxing - the time between the new moon and full moon, and
(2) Waning - the time between the full moon and new moon.
The waxing has two quarters: the new moon and the 2nd quarter moon. The new moon pulls water up through the soil, during this time seeds will be able to absorb more water and will start to swell and burst. This allows the seeds to germinate faster. The new moon is the perfect time to grow lettuce, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage. The 2nd quarter has less gravitational pull but the moonlight will be much stronger, when the moonlight is strong it will encourage leaf and stem growth which is great for seedlings. This period is the perfect time to grow beans, tomatoes, peppers, peas, squashes and melons.
Plant annual flowers, fruits and veggies that produce above ground during the waxing phase.
The waning also has two quarters: the full moon and the 4th quarter. The full moon is when the gravitational pull is the highest. During this time your soil will be extremely moist, but the light will decrease. For your plants that means there is going to be more energy put into growing strong roots rather than leaves and stems. This is a great time to plant root vegetables like beets and carrots. The 4th quarter is a resting period for your plants. The gravitational pull and light is minimal so this is a period meant for harvesting, fertilizing and pruning.
Plant perennial flowers and roots vegetables during the waning phase of the moon.
If you're having troubles with germination, plant production and growth why not try planting with the moon? Follow the rhythm of nature closely and you'll be amazed by the results.
Happy planting!
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