Planting by the Moon

This system uses the energy of the moon and its interaction with the energy of the earth to obtain the very best gardening results.  Just as no-dig gardening shows how to plant in harmony with nature, Moon gardening us shows when the best times to plant and harvest occur.

There are two cycles to consider: the Moon’s phase and the Moon’s sign.  For the best results both cycles should be used in conjunction, with allowance for season, weather and materials.

New Moon Phase
During this phase there is an upsurge of energy, the sap is rising.  It is excellent for planting, grafting, and transplanting (especially for aboveground producing annuals).  Avoid the first two days, until you can see the crescent.  Don’t harvest anything unless you want to use it straight away– it will rot.

First Quarter Phase
Here the energy is still rising.  It is excellent for starting anything, so plant, graft and transplant to your hearts desire.  It is good time to plant cereals and grains.

Full Moon Phase
This is the peaking of the energy in all living things which will be followed by a slow withdrawal of energy as the Moon wanes.  This is the time when sap flows down, back into the roots.  Now is a good time to plant perennials, bulb or root crops.  Harvest herbs for maximum potency.

Last Quarter Phase
This is a barren phase, most appropriate for resting and preparing for the next cycle.  Take time to pull weeds, turn earth, prune and spray pests (organically of course).  Apply organic fertilisers.  Harvest now for best storage.  If you wish you can also transplant for a quick recovery.

Planting by Moon Signs
You can enhance the success of moon planting by also planting in with the astrological energy influencing the moon energy at the time of planting. Unless you are an astrologer though, figuring out through which sign the moon is passing at any given moment can be difficult. Luckily, charts of moon planting guides with astrological positions are available online and for purchase from gardening suppliers. I would recommend this approach.

In general, the associated energies and suggested activities for planting within these signs are given below.

Fruit/Seed = Fire (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)

It is best to plant in a Fire sign to channel the Moon’s influence into the fruit and seeds (for example wheat, corn, tomatoes, beans, peas, all fruit).  Planting in these signs will also aid you to obtain next year’s top quality seed.  It is good to harvest fruit / seed crops here.  Do weeding and general maintenance.

Leaf = Water (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)

Planting in a Water sign will channel the Moon’s influence to the leaves of the plant so it is particularly good for plants such as lettuce, spinach, cabbage, and grasses.  This is the most fertile time for any planting, so if in doubt or short of time, plant anything now.  Start composting and apply fertilisers.

Root = Earth (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)

Planting in an Earth sign channels the Moon’s influence into the roots. As a result, it is best to put your carrots, beets, potatoes, and all tubers in during a time where the moon passes through any of these signs.  Plant hardy and well-anchored plants that are good to endure dry spells as earth sign plantings favour longevity and endurance.

Blossom = Air (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)

As you might expect, planting in an Air sign channels the Moon’s influence to the blossom.  Ensure that you plant all flowers and flowering plants (except broccoli and cauliflower, which do better in a Water sign).  These signs accentuate beauty and fragrance.