How does the moon influence gardening?
Since ancient times, month It has been one of the most observed stars by farmers and gardeners around the world. It has been passed down through generations that Moon phases They can influence plant development, vigor, and productivity. Although there is some debate about the scientific basis for these beliefs, the truth is that thousands of people synchronize their main tasks in the garden and orchard with the four lunar phases, taking their light and gravitational pull as a reference.
What impact do lunar phases have on plants?
La new moon, waxing moon, full moon, and waning moon represent different moments of influence on plant growth. These phases determine the intensity of moonlight and the movement of internal fluids In plants, such as sap, an aspect comparable to the lunar effect on the flow of the tides.
It highlights the Moonlight as the main influencing factor. Although it does not allow photosynthesis to take place, it does intervene in the photoperiod and the stimulation of special proteins that regulate the rhythm of growth and development, mobilizing the plant's sap in a cyclical manner.
Furthermore, agricultural tradition holds that lunar gravitational pull It affects the availability of water in the soil and alters the concentration of nutrients in different parts of the plant, favoring roots or foliage depending on the phase.
Gardening tasks according to the lunar phases
- New Moon: With the lunar energy at its lowest point and the sap concentrated in the roots, it is ideal for pruning, weeding, removing dry leaves and plow land. Sowing is recommended grass, lawns, and round-leafed trees, as well as certain fruit trees such as the lemon Tree and vid. It is not suitable for planting fast-growing plants or transplanting.
- Crescent moon: With the increase in moonlight and the rise of the sap towards the aerial part, it is recommended sowing and transplanting leafy plants, perform grafts, cuttings and layeringIt is the ideal time for the germination from seeds and vegetative propagation, since the humidity in the soil is higher.
- Full moon: This phase represents the peak of energy and the greatest mobilization of water and sap throughout the plant. It is advisable picking fruit, fertilizing, transplanting indoor plants and weeding. Grafting is avoided, as excessive sap can cause damage or dehydration in newly handled plants.
- Waning moon: During this period, the sap flows down to the roots, strengthening the base of the plants. It is a good time to training pruning, cut off Taking advantage of the higher concentration of hormones in the tissues, sowing tubers and roots such as carrots and beets, and for control pests and transplantsIt is also advisable to remove wilted leaves and water preferably on the substrate and not in the saucer, to avoid the proliferation of fungi.
Additional factors and useful tips
In addition to the lunar cycle, we must consider other factors Such as temperature, humidity, soil quality, orientation, wind, and season, which can be equally or more relevant to gardening success. The moon should be interpreted as a complementary factor that integrates with personal observation and experience, combining tradition and science.
Some practical recommendations based on experience and lunar calendars include:
- Doing pruning and eliminate weeds in waning moon to prevent sap “bleeding”.
- Perform subscribers en Crescent moon, to improve nutrient absorption.
- Try your own experiments: sow or transplant the same species at different stages and observe the results.
There are also the so-called lunar trigons (root, flower, leaf, fruit), which relate elements and constellations with ideal days for each type of plant, although their use is more advanced and requires consulting specific astrological calendars. Consult the lunar calendars for sowing to make the most of natural cycles.
Every task can benefit from synchronization with the moon, although it should not replace adaptation to the actual conditions of the environment or careful, personalized management for each garden.
Observing the moon and adapting gardening tasks to its cycle provides a special connection with nature, adding value both practically and emotionally. While the debate continues, more and more gardeners are finding benefits in experimenting with this knowledge.
More information – Influence of the moon on plants.