Hunter’s Moon Garden
Hunter’s Moon Energy in Aries for Your Garden This October
As October’s chill settles over the Pacific Northwest, the night skies bring us a cosmic spectacle—the Hunter’s Moon on October 17, 2024, aligning with the bold, fiery energy of Aries. This full moon arrives at a time of transition, ushering in the deeper rhythms of fall, while simultaneously marking the start of Sukkot, the ancient harvest festival celebrated from October 16 to October 23 this year.
Both the full moon and Sukkot are deeply connected to cycles of harvest, reflection, and renewal. The Hunter’s Moon traditionally signaled a time for gathering resources before winter, while Sukkot is a joyful reminder of gratitude for the abundance of the earth. Together, they encourage us to honor the fruits of our labor—both in the garden and in life.
In a PNW moon garden, this is a perfect time to plant, observe, and reflect on the garden’s natural cycles. This month, we’re focusing on two plants that align beautifully with both the season and the energetic qualities of Aries: Kniphofia uvaria (Red Hot Poker) and Salvia officinalis (Sage).
The Fiery Flower: Kniphofia uvaria (Red Hot Poker)
In the astrological sign of Aries, we see the raw, passionate energy of the warrior—forward-thinking, bold, and unafraid to stand out. Kniphofia uvaria, commonly known as Red Hot Poker, embodies this spirit perfectly. Its torch-like flowers, with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, light up the autumn garden like small fires amidst the cooling days.
This perennial thrives in the Pacific Northwest, needing well-drained soil and a sunny spot. It’s not only a statement piece for the moon garden, but its tall spires and dramatic blooms attract pollinators, especially hummingbirds, and create a striking silhouette in the moonlight, reminding us of Aries’ fearless glow. As the Hunter's Moon rises, the vivid red spikes seem to catch the moon's light, turning your garden into a fiery landscape under the stars.
The Healing Herb: Salvia officinalis (Sage)
While Aries inspires bold action, the Hunter's Moon invites us to pause, reflect, and take stock of the season's bounty. Sage (Salvia officinalis), with its silvery leaves and earthy fragrance, helps ground this high energy. Sage has long been associated with wisdom, protection, and cleansing—qualities we need as we prepare for the darker, quieter months ahead.
Sage thrives in the PNW's cooler fall temperatures and, like Aries, is resilient and tough. When planted in a moon garden, its silvery-green leaves capture the moon’s glow, giving your space an otherworldly shimmer. Use sage both as a culinary herb and for its cleansing properties, burning it as part of moon rituals or simply enjoying its calming presence as you harvest herbs under the full moon. Note there are many varieties and cultivars of salvia, don’t be shy to try a few that have different texture, form, or color in your unique location.
The Hunter’s Moon & Sukkot: Connecting the Dots
As we observe the Hunter’s Moon on October 17, it’s no coincidence that the Jewish festival of Sukkot overlaps from October 16 to 23. Sukkot is a celebration of the harvest and a time to express gratitude for the abundance we have received throughout the year. It’s traditionally celebrated by spending time outdoors in temporary shelters called sukkahs, reminding us of the fragility of life and the importance of gratitude.
The Aries full moon complements this festival by pushing us to be proactive in gathering the last of the year’s bounty, whether it’s herbs from your garden or the personal harvests of wisdom and growth. Like Sukkot’s emphasis on gratitude for what the earth provides, the Hunter’s Moon in Aries calls for action and intention—whether you’re collecting seeds, pruning perennials, or mentally preparing for the slower season ahead.
Together, this potent combination of lunar energy and harvest festival provides the perfect opportunity to honor the balance between action and reflection, fire and earth.
Tips for Your Moon Garden in October
Planting: Now is the time to plant Kniphofia uvaria and Sage in your moon garden, ensuring they’re established before the winter rains. Both are drought-tolerant, perfect for the changing climate of the PNW. Be sure to look for sales and clearance areas at your local nursery.
Harvesting Sage: If you’ve grown sage through the summer, October is ideal for harvesting. The full moon’s energy is believed to heighten the potency of herbs, making this the perfect time to gather leaves for culinary or medicinal use.
Moonlight Reflection: Spend some time in your moon garden during the full moon to connect with its beauty and your intentions for the coming season. Let the Red Hot Poker’s fiery hues and Sage’s calming energy remind you of the balance between action and peace.
As we gather under the Hunter’s Moon, we’re reminded that every season has its own beauty and energy. This October, let your moon garden be a place of reflection, gratitude, and fiery inspiration as we move into the next cycle.
