Gardening by the moon may sound mystical, but it’s an anciently-rooted practice that many farmers and gardeners trust. We wanted to find out more, so we sat down with Mariana Last-Bills, a botanist and farmyard manager at Snuck Farm.
Below are three fascinating things we learned.
1
Moon phases affect groundwater in the same way they affect oceans.
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Waxing moons pull water to the surface of the ground. Waning moons send it deeper into the earth. Knowing this may change the way you plan tasks in your garden. |
2
Each moon cycle reflects the seasons.
NEW MOON
Spring
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Plant leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and grains in this quarter, when rising water will help the seeds swell and crack.
SECOND QUARTER MOON
Summer
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When it’s time to plant beans, tomatoes, squash, and melons, wait for the full moon when water is closest to the surface.
FULL MOON
Fall
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If you want to plant bulbs, potatoes, artichokes, or handle transplants, do it in this phase, when water is moving down toward roots.
LAST QUARTER MOON
Winter
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The final quarter is a resting phase, good for cultivating beds and completing prep work.
3
Lunar gardening is about connection.
Observing the moon and its effects on your plants is an exercise in mindfulness. As you tend to your plants, discerning and honoring their natural rhythms, you become more connected to the earth, the sky, and your natural self.
If you want to explore moon gardening further, read the interview with Mariana.
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