Today is a New Moon in Pisces and a wonderful time to talk plants and the mystery of how the moon influences their growth.
In fact it’s hard to look at gardening or nature without discussing the moon. After all the one essential part that ties seasons; cycles and rhythm all together is the moon. Most of us are familiar with how it has an effect on water and creates tides. But it’s not just open water that feels the Moon’s pull: rivers, lakes, streams, all living creatures and the moisture in the ground. Lore tells us that at different phases of the moon, the levels of moisture in the ground will rise and fall: thus affecting the seeds in the earth.
Societies from as far back as people have been growing food have synced their work with the moon. At different key phases, they knew when to plant; prune; harvest and weed. They also knew what type of crop would grow best, depending on when it was sown. Today we call this part of the ‘permaculture movement’ (working with nature, instead of against it.)
Just to clarify: the new moon is when you can no longer see it. The sky is completely dark except for the stars, if you’re lucky enough to have a clear night. Energy is usually quite low around now, so it’s more a time to make plans and set intentions. It is also a great moment to plant or transplant above ground crops like: leafy annuals (greens, cabbages, lettuce, spinach, celery, etc). Hold off if you can for the other above ground crops until moon is further illuminated (first quarter moon/waxing gibbous. I’ll be writing more on that phase soon).
Word to the wise: make sure to check the back of your seed packet or grower’s instructions about timing. Some tender greens need to be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. For Midwesterners: that’s right about now.
Happy planting!
Olea Apothecary 