Lunar Gardening

Moon, aka Lunar gardening, is an ancient practice that has been around for centuries across various cultures. The earliest records of lunar gardening date back to ancient Babylon, where farmers used the lunar cycles to determine the best times to plant and harvest crops. In the Middle Ages, lunar gardening became more widespread throughout Europe, with farmers consulting almanacs to plan their planting and harvesting activities.

The idea behind lunar gardening is that the gravitational pull of the moon affects the movement of water in plants, in the same way that it does the ocean tides. During a full moon, the gravitational pull is strongest, causing an increase in moisture in the soil and in plants. As the moon wanes, this moisture decreases, making it a good time to prune and harvest crops. Scientific studies have shown that the moon’s phases can affect plant growth, with some researchers finding that the lunar cycle may influence the germination rate and growth of some plants. Today many modern gardeners continue to practice it, combining traditional wisdom with scientific understanding to optimize their garden’s health and productivity.

Lunar gardening for May

1^st – 5^th Waxing  Moon

• Plant seedlings, especially those that produce above-ground crops such as leafy greens, herbs, broccoli.
• Water and fertilize plants
• Transplant seedlings

6^th Full Moon

• Plant root crops
• Harvest crops that produce above-ground such as leafy greens
• Transplant seedlings  

7^th – 19^th  Waning Moon

• Harvest crops that produce below-ground such as onions, radishes.
• Weed garden.
• Turn / aerate compost

20^th New Moon

• Plant seeds, especially those that produce above-ground crops
• Fertilize and feed soil.

21^st – 31^st Waxing Moon

• Plant seedlings
• Water and fertilize plants
• Transplant seedlings