THE GARDENING NETWORK

Moon Cycle Planting Guide

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Moon Cycle Planting Guide

Gardening by the moon aligns planting and garden tasks with natural lunar rhythms. Use this simple guide to choose the best timing for planting, pruning, harvesting, and soil care.

🌑 New Moon → First Quarter

Rising energy · Early growth

  • Start seeds indoors or outdoors
  • Plant leafy greens (lettuce, spinach, kale)
  • Plant herbs grown for leaves
  • Water newly planted beds

Why: Increasing moonlight supports quick germination and strong early growth.

🌓 First Quarter → Full Moon

Maximum growth · Above-ground focus

  • Plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, beans)
  • Plant flowering annuals
  • Transplant seedlings
  • Apply foliar feeds

Why: Energy peaks above ground, supporting flowering and fruit development.

🌕 Full Moon → Last Quarter

Root strength · Structural work

  • Plant root crops (carrots, beets, potatoes)
  • Plant perennials and trees
  • Prune for structure and balance
  • Build compost and soil

Why: Growth energy shifts downward, supporting roots and long-term strength.

🌗 Last Quarter → New Moon

Rest & repair · Maintenance phase

  • Weed garden beds
  • Control pests
  • Harvest for storage
  • Mulch and prepare soil

Why: Reduced growth makes this ideal for cleanup and long-term preparation.

Tip: Moon phase gardening works best when combined with local frost dates, soil temperature, and weather forecasts. Use lunar timing as a guide—not a rigid rule.