Planting By Moon Phase

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The gravitational forces of the moon are believed to have an effect on seed germination and plant growth. Therefore, many people have found through the ages that it is beneficial to plant during certain phases of the moon.

Increasing Light:
The period from the new moon to the full moon, which is the period in which the light is increasing, is best for planting annuals which provide their yield above the ground.

Decreasing Light:
The period from the full moon to the new moon, when the light is decreasing, is best for planting biennials (those plants on a two-year cycle), perennials, and root and bulb crops. Plant potatoes during the dark of the moon” is an old adage.

First Quarter
During the first quarter, or the time from the new moon to about half- full, plant annuals with above-ground yields, particularly leafy plants which produce their seed outside the fruit. Some examples of first quarter plants are asparagus, cabbage, celery, endive, and spinach.

Second Quarter
During the second quarter, or the time from the half-full to the full moon, plant annuals that have above-ground yields which are vining and produce seed inside the fruit. Second quarter plants include beans, peas, peppers, squash, eggplant, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Some plants, such as garlic, melons, hay, and grains and cereals, do well if planted in either the first or second quarter.

Third Quarter
During the third quarter, from the full moon to half-full, plant biennials, perennials, bulb and root crops, any crops which are planted in one season to winter over and produce yields the following year, trees, and shrubs. Some third quarter plants include onions, potatoes, rhubarb, grapes, winter wheat, and berries.

Fourth Quarter
During the fourth quarter, from half-full to new moon, cultivate, pull weeds, destroy pests, and turn sod.