Mary Allen
People used to pay close attention to how the moon moved in the sky. Its condition, but also the signs of the zodiac through which the moon passes, determined the timing of important work in the fields and stables.
Even today, every child knows the phases of the moon. In case of doubt, the mnemonic for increasing or decreasing shows whether the moon is increasing or decreasing. More important for agriculture and gardening, however, are ascending (obliged) and descending (indigent), since it is about the height of the nocturnal arc that the moon describes. And last but not least, the signs of the zodiac through which the moon passes determine the optimal time for the work. While science smiles at it, many gardeners and farmers today still believe that plants, animals, and soil are more vital when work is done in harmony with the moon.
In any case, the influence of the moon on the water is undisputed; Ebb and flow are due to the attraction of the Earth’s satellite. Particularly strong tides occur when the sun, moon, and earth are in line, which happens twice a month. Since living beings are made up of 60 to 90 percent water, it seems obvious that they, too, feel the influence of the moon. It is known, for example, that tree trunks measurably swell and swell in line with the tides.
It is also a fact that not only sunlight but also the weaker glow of the moon affects the internal clock of animals. In biodynamic agriculture, the cosmic rhythms are observed in order to achieve more root or leaf mass or better fruit set. The quality of the harvest should also be better if it is harvested at the right time: herbs are more aromatic, vegetables can be stored better, medicinal plants are more effective.
Superstition or a Grain of Truth?
The waning moon allows the plants’ sap to flow more towards the roots: This is the right time to prune trees, repot plants, fertilize or harvest root vegetables. When the moon rises again, the sap from the plants flows more into the above-ground parts: perfect for grafting trees or for harvesting fruits and vegetables.
Most people know their zodiac sign, which indicates where the sun was at the time of their birth. It takes the sun a year to go through the zodiac once. The moon only needs a month for this. When gardening, it is important to note which zodiac sign the moon is in. Three of the signs of the zodiac stand for root days (element earth), leaf days (element water), flower days (element air), and fruit days (element fire).
Rabbit breeders who work with the moon also pay attention to the signs of the zodiac and specifically place the mating time in a sign with fur (Aries, Taurus, Leo, Capricorn). The moon is said to be waxing since young animals are said to develop particularly well. Obliged and indigent, on the other hand, are said to have a particular effect on the ears. Aries breeders who have problems with the ear position in their stock should best choose mating dates when the moon is indigent.