Planting by the Moon-Part 2

The gravitational pull of the moon, particularly the full moon phase, affects not only the earth’s tides and rainfall, but also the air currents on the earth’s surface. And plants are extremely sensitive to any amount of energy fluctuation.

When planting by the moon, also remember to take heed of upcoming or current weather as well. But even with a different intervening weather or social condition, you’ll still be able to proceed with moon planting at least 80% of the time.

Using organic gardening procedures can greatly enhance moon planting, for plants respond best to the natural rhythms and elements around them when they’re sown in non-chemically treated soil. (Composting is an example of an organic fertilizer that can be used for all your planting needs. It’s an excellent source of plant nourients and can also be used as a mulch.)

The full moon of June is also known as the Rose Moon, Flower Moon, or Strawberry Moon.

The astrological cycle of Cancer the Crab is from June 21st-July 22nd. It’s the best time for planting seedlings and repotting. This is considered the best sign of the zodiac for all planting and transplanting of above ground crops, leafy ones in particular. It’s also good for grafting and irrigation.

Watering is also advantageous during a waxing moon phase in this sign. (To recount, this is the period between the new and full moon, in the first and second quarters, when there’s increasing moonlight.)

Favorable first quarter plants would be asparagus, cabbage, celery, endive, and spinach. Favorable second quarter plantings would be beans, peas, peppers, squash, eggplant, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Other favorable gardening/planting activities during this phase include: Planting flowers for beauty or fragrance, such as roses, and planting cuttings that can be rooted or repotted. Also, raspberries, blackberries, and/or gooseberries can be planted, and herbs (the ones used for essential oils) can be gathered.

Remember, the waning moon phase is associated with harvesting; time and again, farmers have found that apples, cabbages, potatoes, onions, and other produce will hold and store better if harvested at this time (water content is decreased during a waning moon.)

It’s the best to: Sow below-ground crops, plant fruit trees, fertilize your crops with potassium, mulch in the third quarter, dig herb roots, harvest leaves and bark that’s intended to be used, as or in medicinal teas. You can do all drying activities involving herbs, flowers, and/or fruit. You can also spray fruit trees and divide your perennials.

If you want to control growth, or encourage the growth of “hardy” plants, do these activities during the waning moon cycle.

Never sow or plant during an eclipse!

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