Why do people plant according to phases of the moon?

Andrew asks, I remember my grandmother talking about planting vegetables by the phases of the moon. What’s that all about?”

My grandfather was born in 1888, and my mom has told me stories about her father planning when to plant various vegetables in his garden according to the cycles of the moon.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac, continues even to this day, publishing moon dates to when to plant different vegetables. In simple terms seeds that produce above the ground vegetables should be planted when the moon is increasing, going from a new moon to a full moon. Root veggies such as potatoes, carrots, turnips and others are best to plant when the moon is waning, going from a full moon to a new moon.

Those who believe in planting by the moon feel there is a natural rhythm to life. Just as the full moon brings in the tides in the ocean, the phases of the moon regulates the moisture content of the soil and aids in the germination of the seeds. Believers feel the gravitational pull of the moon will pull roots down into the soil and aid in helping the plants reach for the sun.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac also publishes the best days of planting depending on when the moon is in various places in the Zodiac. A few examples are, best to plant seeds or make plant grafts when the moon is in Cancer, Pisces, and others constellations.

Weeding, plowing, and controlling pest is best when the moon is in Aquarius, Leo, Aries and other constellations.

Believers feel this ancient, age-old practice will result in bigger and better crops!