|
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.
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 thing 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.
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 Moon gardening, yet I will add tid-bits about which astrological sign we may be in at the time.
The Moon, as you all know, directly affects our gravity and the tides. Did you realize it affects gravity on everything, down to the single cells in plants and animals, and all water on Earth; in our bodies and the water in every cell of every living being.
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 the periods of transition.
Waxing is the time between new & full; the first quarter
Waning is the time between full & new; the last quarter
Where are we now?
January 9 - is the First Quarter; and Jan 14 - Feb 3 Mercury will be in Retrograde!
The First Quarter is when the moon is about 6-9 'days old' and the right side is illuminated.
It's a good time to make choices, change course, establish healthy habits and set boundaries.
That being said, do so before Mercury goes Retrograde, she rules communication. For these 3 weeks, be careful what you say and clarify what you hear - what was meant, not what you interpreted.
Between Samhain and Beltane (on the Wheel of the Year) is the Earth Element - we draw our attention to ground ourselves, rest and recalibrate. Find out who you are, be gentle and peaceful with yourself and be open to complete self-acceptance with who and where you are in this current chapter of your story.
How can this apply to the garden?
Since this is the first First Quarter of the year take time to think about what worked well in the garden and what DID NOT. What changes would you like to make? Are those realistic and attainable? During this slowing down and inward time make plans for what can improve. We don't want to be making these plans a month or two from now.
Plants for the Moon Garden:
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)
Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)
~ No I didn't plan for all A lettered plants! But I do want to note all of these are great to have around during cough and cold seasons. If you don't have them already here is a great way to...plan for next year. ~
Sources and Resources:
Coloring Book of Shadows (my favorite day planner)
The Moon Book by Sarah Gottesdiener
Farmers Almanac
Online links for reference - Shop local, Shop small business!
I do not receive compensation for any affiliate links in email or on website.
|
