Understanding the basics
Moon phases
As the moon’s gravitational pull causes tides to rise and fall, it also affects moisture in the soil. Therefore it is said that seeds will absorb more water during the full moon and the new moon, when more moisture is pulled to the surface. This causes seeds to swell, resulting in improved germination and better-established plants. The moon also impacts plant growth through geotropism, which is how plants grow in response to gravity. Roots grow downward in the direction of the gravitational pull and stems grow in the opposite direction.
• New moon to first quarter (waxing) – semi-fertile This is the ideal time to plant crops that produce their seeds outside the fruit. It is most suited to sowing or transplanting leafy annuals of which we eat the leaves, as well as the flowers and the stalks in certain instances.
• The success rate of seed germination increases a few days before a full moon. This phase is most suited to fruiting annuals of which we value or eat the fruit or seed-bearing part
