Visualizing when to plant/ propagate different types of plants according to the moon cycle
Throughout my time living in Central America I have always heard producers say they are waiting for the full moon to harvest their corn or waiting for the waxing moon to plant their corn. But I never exactly understood why! As Gregorio explained to us, this practice traces back to indigenous knowledge of energies of the world.
The Mayans were expert observers. They observed how the different positions of the moon influenced energies in the world such as the growth and harvest of their crops. This phenomenon is related to the laws of physics and gravity which also regulates the high and low tide of the ocean. The different phases of the moon impact people, plants, and animals, and Gregorio explained to us that the idea is to use these energies in our favor. The Lunar calendar is important to ancestral practices of agriculture, influencing the growth, quality and nutrition of the harvest.
The lunar calendar is 28 days long and there are 4 lunar phases. Let's look at which activities are best in each lunar phase!
Guide of Lunar phases and agricultural activities
Lunar Phases
New moon/ Luna nueva
The energy is at the base of the plant, concentrated in the roots. Therefore, during this phase it is best to harvest root vegetable and root medicinal plants. It's also a good time to do pruning for healthy plants and trees.
Waxing moon/ Luna creciente
The energy begins to move upward toward the stem and leaves. Therefore, during this phase it is best to plant crops that grow above the soil like leafy plants, fruits, and legumes.
Full moon/ Luna llena
The energy is concentrated in the stems and leaves. During this phase it is best to harvest crops that grow above the soil like leafy plants, fruits, and legumes. It's also a good time to fertilize!
Waning moon/ Luna menguante
The energy begins to move downward and accumulate in the roots. Therefore, during this phase it is best to plant and transplant root plants. This is a good time to do pruning for healthy plants and trees. It's also a good time to weed.
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