Gardening by the Moon and Stars

A Cosmic Approach To Growing Organic Food

We really like bread and butter. We really like supporting local; consuming it is our jam! If you don’t or didn’t know about your local farmstand at Osceola Organic Family Farm, let’s look into what is available and upcoming for your availability. 24/7... Yes, 24/7 the stand is open to the public, ran by the honor system. Whenever you need it come and get it! The bread and butter of our farm will always be the mixed greens supplied to many local restaurants. Spring mix is the staple of our farm! Arugula and kale are being stocked up as well! We offer a range of sprouts: micro-greens, sunflower sprouts, and pea shoots. What’s better than being able to consume edible and medicinal flowers in the spring? Flowers are now readily available! Fresh moringa will give your nutritional needs a boost (four times more nutrient dense than kale).

If the Moon reflects the sun’s light and the sun’s light is known to help plants grow, doesn’t the moonlight have a helping hand in growth? Let us work the nightshift and gain some wisdom. This technique, rooted in ancient wisdom and supported by scientific principles, involves aligning planting and gardening activities with the phases of the Moon. By understanding the influence of the Moon and other celestial bodies on plant growth, followers of this practice believe they can achieve better results and a deeper connection with nature. In this, we will explore the concept of gardening by the Moon, its principles and benefits, and how you can incorporate it into your own gardening routine.

Gardening by the Moon is based on the belief that the cycles of the Moon affect various aspects of plant growth, leading to the understanding of the Moon’s influence on plant growth. Just as the Moon's gravitational pull causes tides to rise and fall, it also impacts the moisture levels in the soil. During the full Moon and the new Moon, when the Moon is in its waxing phase, there is a greater pull on the water in the soil. The Moon's gravitational force influences geotropism, which is the way plants respond to gravity.

To fully embrace gardening by the Moon, it is essential to understand the two main periods of the lunar cycle: the waxing of the Moon and the waning of the Moon (rise and fall.) The waxing phase occurs between the new Moon and the full Moon, while the waning phase takes place from the full Moon to the new Moon. During the waxing phase, which is associated with increasing moonlight, it is recommended to plant annual flowers, fruit, and vegetables that bear crops above ground. Reversely, the waning phase, characterized by decreasing moonlight, is ideal for planting flowering bulbs, biennial, perennial flowers, and vegetables that bear crops below ground.

Now that we have a basic understanding of gardening by the Moon, let's get into the hands-on aspects of implementing this technique in your garden. By following these guidelines, you can align your planting activities with the phases of the Moon and maximize the potential of your garden.

Waxing Phase: During the waxing phase, when the Moon is transitioning from the new Moon to the full Moon, it is best to focus on planting crops that bear fruits or vegetables above ground. The increased moisture in the soil during the waxing phase can be beneficial for plant growth.

Align with the Moon's Phases: Begin planting your chosen crops from the day the Moon is new until the day it reaches its full phase.

Watering: Water your plants regularly, keeping in mind the natural moisture fluctuations influenced by the Moon.

Waning Phase: Plant below-ground crops in the waning phase, as the Moon transitions from the full Moon to the new Moon. It is time to focus on crops that bear fruits or vegetables below the ground. These crops thrive when planted during the waning phase.

Timing is Key: Begin planting your selected crops from the day after the full Moon until the day before the new Moon.

By aligning your planting activities with the Moon's phases, you can optimize your garden's potential and create an environment that promotes healthy plant growth. Gardening by the Moon is not the only approach to consider. An alternative approach to gardening by the Moon is the use of astrological considerations known as the "best days." While this approach is not based on astronomical observations, it takes into account the Moon's position in the zodiac and associates specific activities with certain signs.

As with any gardening practice, gardening by the Moon is a deeply personal journey that allows individuals to establish a connection with nature and tap into the rhythms of the universe. As you launch your gardening journey, consider incorporating the principles of gardening by the Moon into your routine. Remember, gardening is not just about growing plants; it is a journey of self-discovery and a way to deepen your connection with the world around you.

Embrace the art of gardening by the Moon and let the stars guide your green thumb towards a bountiful harvest.

If you ate today, thank a farmer!

Written and photography by Blake Goodwyn