The moon influences the tides and so why not also our plants?
Since ancient times gardeners have planted based on the phases of the moon and some according to the signs of the zodiac, too . Maybe there really is something to it.
When fervent believers add planetary influences to their calculations, we refer to Moon Phase Planting
guidelines and then also hope to find a time deemed favorable in terms of the zodiac. So what does that mean?
First, you need to know the date of the ever-significant full moon and its phases. The U.S. Naval Observatory
can certainly help us out with that.
Then you need to keep a couple of tenets in mind. Plants grown for a product produced above ground should be planted when the moon is waxing -- getting larger. Plants grown for their roots should be planted while the moon is waning -- getting smaller. Here is the in-depth Old Farmer's Almanac Lunar Planting Guide
which includes not only specific plants but suggested planting dates, too.
Now remember that the moon's influence is said to be tempered by the twelve signs of the zodiac. Leo is believed to be a barren sign and its strength will overpower the moon even during a good phase. In contrast, Cancer is considered to be very fruitful. The Grok custom sundial generator
including the zodiac if you need one. Another source for zodiac information can be found here along with some Basic Tools of Astrology.
For a direct application to gardening, here is an excellent merged reference: Dragon's Hearth Botanicals' moon phases and signs of the zodiac for gardeners.
Louise Riotte wrote "Planetary Planting: Organic Gardening By the Signs of the Zodiac and the Phases of the Moon" in 1976 and then "Planetary Planting" back in 1982. Now she has a book scheduled for 1998: "Planetary Planting: A Guide to Organic Gardening By the Signs of the Zodiac". I for one am waiting eagerly!
In the meantime, consider adapting your planting schedule to fit the lunar and astrological forces at work in our universe. You never know -- it might be a good thing!
More Fun With Lunar, Planetary and Astrological Links
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