Gardening by the Phases of the Moon

Have you ever tried gardening according to the phases of the moon? 

For me, annual changes in weather patterns such as an extra long or cold summer have had the most effect on my crops. However, planting by the phases of the moon is an old practice. It is believed that the moon's gravitational pull on the Earth affects ocean tides, plants, animals and us! 

October is a very special month this year because it has two full moons! Today, October 1st is considered the harvest moon; and October 31st will be the second “Hunter’s Blue Moon.” Anytime there are two full moons in a month, the second moon is known as a “blue moon.”

According to old lore, the moon's gravitational pull affects the amount of water in the soil; and its light encourages plant growth. It is hypothesized that when the moon's gravitational pull is weakest, above ground crops grow more; and when its gravitational pull is strongest, root vegetables grow best.

The old-timers believed the moon influences the best days to do basic daily tasks. You can do your chores any old day, but you will be more successful if you do each on its moon-designated best day, for mundane tasks such as:

• Sowing seeds
• Killing garden pests
• Mowing your lawn to slow growth
• Harvesting
• Pruning
• Making jams
• Cutting your hair
• Weaning your baby

For more information on the best dates in October 2020 to garden and other matters check out the Old Farmer's Almanac. For specific best dates visit the Old Farmer’s Almanac.