According to many gardeners, the moon can have an effect on plants. Depending on the phase of the moon, the saps of plants tend to move towards the roots or towards the aerial parts. This means that there are most favorable times for growth, cultivation and harvesting of plants according to the lunar phases. Thus, the lunar calendar for the orchard or garden It is of great importance for those who wish to optimize their agricultural activities.
Throughout this article we will explain in depth how the moon influences crops and how to take advantage of these lunar phases to improve both sowing and harvesting in your orchard or garden.
Lunar calendar for the orchard or garden
The lunar calendar is based on the positions of the moon relative to the Earth and its relationship to the constellations of the zodiac. According to these positions, the calendar is divided into four main categories of days:
- Root Day: Related to the constellations of Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn. It is the ideal time for root crops such as onions, carrots or potatoes.
- Leaf Day: Associated with the constellations of Pisces, Cancer and Scorpio. It is ideal for leafy plants, such as spinach or lettuce.
- Flower day: When the moon is in Gemini, Libra or Aquarius, it is the perfect period for ornamental flowers and plants such as cauliflower.
- Fruit Day: Related to the constellations of Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. It is ideal for plants that produce fruits such as tomatoes and peppers.
Additionally, there are certain tasks that should not be performed during specific phases, such as gardening during Lunar New Year, when the moon's effect may be less favorable to plants.
Sowing according to the lunar phases?
It is highly recommended plant certain plant species according to the lunar phases to better take advantage of the sap flow. Here we detail what type of vegetables to plant according to each phase:
- Fruit vegetables: Zucchini, tomato or cucumber should be planted when the moon is in a waxing phase or during fruit-bearing days. Fire signs such as Aries or Sagittarius are favourable for these vegetables.
- Tubers or roots: Vegetables such as carrots and garlic should be planted when the moon is in its waning phase or in earth constellations such as Capricorn or Taurus.
- leafy vegetables:Lettuce, spinach and cabbage prefer to be planted in water constellations like Pisces and Cancer during the ascending moon phases.
- Flowering vegetables: Flowering plants such as broccoli or cauliflower should be planted when the moon is transiting Aquarius, a favorable sign for flowers.
In what phase of the moon is it planted and in which is it harvested?
The time of sowing and harvesting depends greatly on the lunar phase. The ascending and descending phases play an important role:
- Ascending moon phase: This is the moment when the sap rises towards the leaves and fruits. During this phase it is advisable to plant, sow or graft plants.
- Descending moon phase: Here the sap is concentrated in the roots, which makes it the best time to harvest tubers, prune or transplant.
Also, when the moon is waxing, fruit-bearing plants such as tomatoes and zucchini are more productive. In the waning moon, on the other hand, tubers and other root vegetables tend to develop their flavour and texture better.
Lunar calendar and gardening tasks in the first quarter of 2023
The first quarter of the year is crucial to start planning sowing and transplanting, especially if you have a greenhouse. It is also possible to do some harvesting if the weather permits.
January 2023
In January it is recommended to protect your crops from frost. Take advantage of favorable days for root crops and avoid work on unfavorable lunar days. Some examples:
- Root days (2-4, 12-15, 29-31 January): Plant carrots and radishes.
- Leaf days (January 8, 17, 18, 25 and 27): Perfect for sowing leeks and cabbages.
- Transplant days: The ascending phase of the moon between January 1 and 5, as well as from January 20 to 31, is ideal for transplanting and sowing leafy vegetables.
February 2023
With the increase in sunlight, the month of February allows for some outdoor sowing. The weather can still be harsh, so transplanting is preferable, using greenhouses if necessary.
- Root days (February 1, 8-11, 18 and 26-28): Planting garlic and carrots during these days will promote stronger growth.
- Fruit days (5-7, 24-25 February): Plant tomatoes and fruit vegetables.
- Leaf days (February 4, 14, 15, 21 and 23): Plant lettuce, leeks and cabbage.
March 2023
As the seasons change, March is a key month to start sowing outdoors. This is when you can begin harvesting your first crops of radishes and other early vegetables.
- Root days (March 8-11, 25-27): Plant garlic, radishes and potatoes.
- Flower days (March 12, 18-19): It is a good time to plant broccoli and artichokes.
- Fruit days (5-7, March 24): Sow early tomatoes and cucumbers.
If you follow this guide according to the lunar phases, you will notice that your crops will have better results in terms of flavour, growth and resistance. For gardeners, it remains a useful traditional practice, even if its scientific influence is not fully proven, experience and tradition are still valuable in this field.