Zodiac Gardening Basics
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Zodiac Gardening - Main Topics |
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Organic Holistic Gardening and the Zodiac
It is commonly held by organic gardeners that the phases of the moon and position of the constellations of the zodiac combine to enhance or hinder plant growth. This is a belief that is not new but has come down to us from our ancient past.Moon and zodiac growing was first discovered by ancient farmers and now is a part of the present organic holistic gardening movement. Today, modern growers and home gardeners alike are turning back to this holistic approach to husbandry and plant growth. Organic, holistic methods of gardening are well suited to the home garden.
The position of the moon and it's relationship to the constellations
To fully understand the basics of zodiac gardening you must take into account the position of the moon and it's relationship to the constellations. The optimum time for planting, growing and harvesting crops by the zodiac is when the moon crosses whichever of the zodiac constellations that benefits that particular task.Also, it is important to consider the phase of the moon at the time you perform gardening chores. Below we will look at the phases of the moon and how each zodiac sign relates to a particular gardening task.
The two steps to zodiac gardening (Moon phases and zodiac signs)
Step 1 - Moon phases
Each phase of the moon either benefits plant growth or discourages it.
Diagram showing the full range of moon phases
The Waxing Moon promotes growth above ground
When the moon passes from new moon to full moon it is said to be waxing. This is considered to be the optimal time to plant crops that grow above the ground.See: Above Ground Crops - The plants that produce their crop above the ground
The Waning Moon promotes growth below the soil
When the moon passes from full moon to new moon it is said to be waning. This is considered to be the best time to plant crops that produce their bounty beneath the soil.See: Below Ground Crops - Root crops and other below ground produce
Step 2 - Zodiac signs
Coupled with the phase of the moon the zodiac signs add an extra element to plant growth. It is a convenient method of knowing the right time for planting, growing or reaping.Moon and zodiac alignments provide optimal growing conditions
The moon cycles through all the constellations that makeup the zodiac during a lunar month. As seen from the earth the moon is superimposed upon each of the zodiac signs for a time. These windows of opportunity are considered to be the best times to perform various gardening tasks. And in so doing provide your plants with optimal conditions for growth.See: Zodiac Sign Gardening - Timing the stages of your garden's growth by the signs of the zodiac
Your garden and the signs of the zodiac
The Zodiac Signs and Moon Phase Gardening
Agricultural chores are most effective when the moon is passing through specific zodiac constellations. It is a means of fine tuning your gardening and ensuring that these tasks are timed correctly.Fertile Zodiac Signs (Time to plant and prune)
Each sign of the zodiac is considered to be an earth, air, fire, or water sign. Fertile signs are water and earth signs. The earth and water signs, when crossed by the moon, are optimal times for planting crops and also pruning to encourage healthy growth.See: Vegetable Planting Guide - Planting guide of common vegetables for the home gardener
Barren Zodiac Signs (Time to maintain the garden)
Air and fire signs are barren signs. Gardening activities such as weeding, tilling the soil, and pruning should be done while the moon is in one of these zodiac signs.See: Tilling the Soil - How to prepare your garden for planting
The zodiac signs and your garden
Zodiac signs are individually identified with one of four elements. In astrology these elements are earth, air, fire or water. When the moon is in a water sign, for example, it is considered to be the best time for planting leafy plants as they prefer the water signs.The water signs:
These signs encourage the growth of above ground leafy annuals; Cancer, Pisces, and Scorpio. During a conjunction with the moon these signs encourage the growth of above ground leafy annuals and it is the best time to plant them.The earth signs:
Planting and transplanting during this time will encourage root development. Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn, are also fertile signs. Below ground growth is associated with earth signs. Root crops are best when planted now and transplanting during this time will encourage root development.The air signs:
When the moon is in an air sign it is a good time to harvest and cultivate; Libra, Aquarius and Gemini work for some plants, but are in general considered to be barren and dry. An exception to that rule is Libra which is considered to be semi-fertile and good for planting blooming flowers and herbals. Plant melons in Gemini, and onions in Aquarius for a bountiful crop of these garden staples. Also, when the moon is in an air sign it is a good time to harvest and cultivate.See: Harvesting and Preservation - Harvest and preserve your bounty
The fire signs:
Harvesting during a fire sign will help prevent spoilageAries, Leo and Sagittarius are also barren and dry, but it is still a good time to plant crops grown for their seed. Leo, when it is ruled by the moon, is a good sign in which to do your weeding and cultivation.Also, harvesting during a fire sign will help prevent spoilage. Some plants have better results with a certain sign or element.
Void of the moon:
Do nothing in your garden nowThe time of transition from one zodiac sign to the next is the considered to be the void of the moon. Do nothing in your garden now. Instead, take a break and focus on the planning of your dream garden.|
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| | Moon Phase Gardening | | | Zodiac Sign Gardening | | | Vegetable Planting Guide | | | Organic Gardening Guide | | | |
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