Moon calendar gardening
It is important to mention one more difference: in European tradition the sign in which the Moon is more important than the phase of the Moon calendar (as in the American tradition). In the European system phases do not play a great role.
The signs (constellations) are classified into four groups: Seed Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius which are referred to the Fire signs in Traditional Astrology), Flower Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius , known as Air signs ), Leaf Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces - the Water signs) and Root Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn, referred to the Earth signs ).
According to this classification, when the Moon enters one of the Seed signs, it is the best time for cultivating tomatoes, apples, beans, cereals because the energy concentrates in the fruits and seeds and they grow more actively during this period.
When the Moon is in one of the Flower Signs, the growth of flowers is activated. It is recommended to cultivate such plants as artichokes or cauliflower and real flowers too.
The Moon calendar gardening being in the Leaf Signs stimulates the growth of leaves. It is a good period for cultivating such plants as cabbage, salad or spinach.
When the Moon is in one of the Root Signs, it promotes the growth of the underground parts of plants.It is recommended to cultivate potatoes, carrots, onions in this period.
Waxing Or Waning Moon calendar
The authors following the European Tradition seem not to pay much attention to the Moon phases. However , Michel Gros in his book “ In Tune With The Moon” gives us the following information about the waxing Moon:
“Plants increase in vitality with moonlight and as the Full Moon approaches, their resistance to parasites and diseases increases. Fruits and vegetables harvested at this time store well and impart more vitality when eaten, while cut flowers last longer in a vase. Silage and mown hay are of better quality, compost is warmer and animals are less anxious when there are people around”.
And he writes the following about the waning Moon:
“As the moonlight decreases, so does the vigour of plants, although their specific energy is increased - colours, scents and tastes are more perceptible during this phase, and nutritional and medicinal properties are more pronounced. However, it is more difficult to store harvested crops in their natural state and this phase is more suitable for preserving foods, making jams and bottling wine. Insecticides and fungicides are more effective”.
