The gravitational pull of the moon affects the tides. It makes sense, therefore, that the moon’s relationship to the earth most likely affects groundwater as well.  This is a basic practice of biodynamic gardening and farming, and it’s also an age-old strategy that our ancestors learned to use after witnessing the results firsthand. Why not try it in your garden and see if it makes a difference? Here are the basics:

When the moon is waxing: As the moon starts to grow bigger in appearance in the night sky, its gravitational pull is higher. Therefore, this is a good time to encourage growth in your plants. Recommended actions include transplanting, grafting, fertilizing, and harvesting leafy greens and fruits that you intend to consume right away, as their water content is going to be higher during this time.

When the moon is full: That big, bright full moon is your sign that it’s the ideal time to plant seeds or transplant seedlings. The high moisture level in soil will aid in their germination and the strong influence will help roots and leaves to grow quickly.

When the moon is waning: As the moon diminishes in appearance in the night sky, the moisture level in the soil recedes. Sound like a bad thing? Not at all! This time of the month is the perfect time for planting seeds that do most of their growing underground, such as root crops, or other plants that depend on robust root growth, such as trees. This is when you want to prune plants and divide perennials. Most important, especially after all your hours of hard work tending your garden, this is when you want to harvest any fruits or vegetables that you intend to dry or root crops you intend to store as their water content will be lower than during the waxing or full moon.

When there is a new moon: When no moon is visible in the night sky, the water content of your soil is lowest, so pay extra attention to watering your garden as your plants will rely on you at this time.

-Read more about biodynamic sowing practices in Citizen Farmers.