Moon planting, an age-old gardening practice, aligns planting activities with the lunar cycle to enhance growth and yield. As spring transitions into summer, it’s an ideal time to plant culinary herbs, greens, and tomatoes.
November 2024
The last days of spring are more like summer and it’s the ideal time to plant culinary herbs, greens, tomatoes and, in warmer areas, some tropical fruit trees.
December 2024
Year’s end means summer proper is here at last and so are salad days: time to plant greens (including lettuce), tomatoes, zucchini and other cucurbits.
The four phases
When the moon is waxing from new moon to full moon, it is increasing light and drawing sap flow upwards. During the waning from full moon back to new moon, light decreases and sap is drawn downwards.
This movement of sap flow has an influence on how well new plants will grow. There are four phases, each lasting seven to eight days. Sowing, planting and taking cuttings should not be done in the 12 hours before and after each phase. If you want to work in the garden at that time, carry out general tasks and improve your soil for planting.
Fruiting annuals
Sow or plant annuals grown for their fruits or seeds. This is best done during the first quarter phase between first quarter and full moon, when sap is being drawn upwards.
Root crops
Sow or plant crops that produce below the ground, and also perennials. This is best done between full moon and last quarter when sap flow is being drawn downwards.
Leafy greens
Sow or plant crops that are grown for their foliage. This is best done during the new moon phase between new moon and first quarter when sap is being drawn upwards.
Avoid Planting
The last quarter phase is not a good period for sowing or planting, so is best used working on improving soil, weeding, making compost and other general chores.