For moon gardening purposes, the twenty-nine day moon cycle is divided into four quarters. Each quarter, specific garden chores are preformed: 

In the first quarter, when the moon is in its waxing phase from new to half full, plant annuals, herbs, and green vegetables. During this time lunar gravity pulls moisture up from water tables and the levels of moonlight increase daily. These factors promote balanced root and leaf growth. 

In the second quarter, when the moon is in its waxing phase from half full to full, the strong moonlight promotes leaf growth so plant fruit and vegetable bearing crops. 

In the third quarter, when the moon is in its waning phase from full to half full, plant root crops like radishes and beets, perennials and bulbs. At this time the strong gravitational pull draws more moisture into the soil, but moonlight weakens daily. These conditions are ideal for active root growth. 

The fourth quarter, when the moon is in its waning phase from half full to new, is a good time to harvest, weed, prune and fertilize the garden.

If you would like to try out lunar gardening, the phases of the moon can be found in most calendars and farmer’s almanacs. Who knows you might just get moonstruck by lunar gardening!

Provided by Diane Flowers, SOL Inspirations