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Moon Gardening
Since time immemorial our ancestors have lived, told time, fell in love, passed down stories and tended the gardens by the light of the moon. I would like to offer the opportunity for you all to learn more and engage with our only true and beloved satellite while digging in the soil and while walking other paths of your lives.
How does it work - different phases of the moon provide different energies for working in the garden (and all aspects of our lives) to support a specific task or goal.
This is related to but not exactly the same as planting by Astrological days. There is some overlap and you can do both concurrently or choose only one. In these posts I will focus on where the moon is in the sky and what energies that may bring you and your gardens.
The Moon, as you all know, directly affects our gravity and the tides. Did you realize it affects gravity on everything - all water on Earth; in our bodies and down to the water in single cells of plants and animals.
Where are we now?
The Sun enters Capricorn on the 21st, Winter Solstice and the upcoming New moon is in Capricorn 23-25th.
~~ New Moon in Capricorn - Choose a goal to focus on and begin taking steps towards it ~~
As with all new moons the tides are higher, our mindfulness and attention can be more powerful.
Take this time to cultivate intentions of hope and optimism in new practices. Or as Sarah Gottesdiener says "breathe new life into old practices... [this is] the beginning of the beginning"
How can this apply to the garden?
As with any new moon we are at the start of a new cycle; the garden is no different. While it may be resting now - not actively growing, you are preparing the soil to grow something amazing very soon. Plant cover crops or cover with mulch to feed the life that will feed your plants and eventually your belly! Begin dreaming of what you will plant in the coming months!
Plants for the Moon Garden:
Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) - Cyclamen is known for its bright flowers, striking heart-shaped leaves, and graceful, mounding growth habit. This plant is a relatively hardy, tuber-grown perennial that thrives in the winter. Native to the East Mediterranean, they are used to hot, dry summers and cold, wet winters.
Hellebore (Helleborus spp.) AKA Lenten or Christmas Rose; Hellebores are a unique winter bloomer with a variety of colors, from deep maroons to subtle greens and soft whites. Its large, palmate, serrated foliage make it a nice statement plant. A few December blooming varieties: Liona, Jacob, Cinnamon Snow, and Vavavoom Pink and White
> Try white and deep reds of either plant to show off in the Moon Garden
Sources and Resources:
Coloring Book of Shadows (my favorite day planner)
The Moon Book by Sarah Gottesdiener
The Herbal Academy
Time Passages app
The Complete Book of Herbs by Lesley Bremness
Shop local, Shop small businesses!
I do not receive compensation for any affiliate links in email or on website.
While you are learning more about the moon’s seasons, energy, power and spirit I ask that each of you also consider how you can help protect her - right now (and for some time really) there has been an assault on the moon. To regard this beautiful being in our solar system only as a resource, a trophy, a commodity to exploit for our benefit is beyond unfortunate and will only do us harm in the long run.
Please join me in honoring the moon by accepting and celebrating what she has to offer. I look forward to learning more with all of you.
Moon Phases and their associations.
There are four primary phases, in some resources you may see as many as 9. Here I am introducing the most commonly seen. Please note this list of associations or attributes is not exhaustive, only a foundation to get us started on this journey together. Remember these apply to all aspects of life not just in the landscape.
New - Set New Intentions, Start Projects, Renew and Regenerate
First Quarter - Take Action, Increase Energy, Let things In
Full - Culmination, Complete and Fulfill
Last Quarter - Banishing, Let things Go
In addition to the phases there are periods of transition.
Waxing is the time between new & full; the first quarter
Waning is the time between full & new; the last quarter
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