I truly believe gardening and the energy of the universe go hand in hand. The moon is an amazing force in the sky, waxing and waning like clockwork. Increasing and decreasing the amount of light it casts on our nighttime sky.
For many years, the daily calendar I’ve referred to is “Jim Maynard’s Celestial Guide“. Not only is it chocked full of information on astrological gardening, it also provides an easy to understand calendar of daily moon patterns.
Here are a few basics:
• There are two main things to consider: the phase of the moon, and the sign the moon is passing through.
• The first phase starts with the new moon filling out to a full moon through the first and second quarters; increasing the amount of light it sheds every night. In the second phase, through the third and fourth quarters, there is a decrease in light.
• While the moon goes through phases, it also passes through the signs of the zodiac. Water signs like Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces are best for planting as these signs are the most fertile. Under dry and barren signs such as Leo, Aries, and Sagittarius it is best to battle weeds and pests.
I by no means live my gardening life glued to these timelines. However I do refer to them often, especially when I have 3 or 4 different tasks at hand. Sometimes I can’t decide… Sure enough! I look it up in my book and see that the moon is transitioning to the next sign, also called a void. We can often feel unconnected and without direction. Ah….. it all makes sense.
Happy Moon Year!
Article was written by landscaping expert Heidi Branchesi of Chezem Creek Gardens & Heidi’s Timely Gardening Tips. Find more of her gardening tips in the Expert Advice section of our YOG:Blog.