I used to think moon gardening was just one of those charming old-timey things people talked about but didn’t really do anymore, like churning your own butter or using tree bark as medicine. But once I started paying attention to the moon’s rhythm, I realized there’s an actual logic to it. A rhythm that makes sense not just in folklore, but in biology and the natural world too.

It’s not about superstition, it’s about timing. And in gardening, timing is everything.

So Why Garden by the Moon?

The moon affects more than tides, it also influences moisture in the soil, seed germination, and even how plants take in nutrients. Just like the moon’s gravity pulls on the ocean, it also pulls on water in the ground (and inside seeds!). That means the moisture levels in the soil slightly rise and fall depending on the moon phase.

When the moon is waxing (growing fuller), moisture rises toward the surface, making it a better time to plant crops that grow above ground.
When the moon is waning (shrinking), moisture draws down, supporting root development and grounding energy.

Add in the increasing and decreasing light of the moon and you’ve got a guide that gently tells you what to plant when. People have been using this method for generations, and whether or not it’s perfect science, I’ve found that it helps me stay connected to my garden’s natural pace.

New Moon to First Quarter – Leafy Things

This is when the moon is just beginning to grow, energy and moisture are rising. It’s the best time for leafy crops like:

• Lettuce
• Kale
• Spinach
• Arugula
• Fresh herbs

These plants benefit from that upward pull of energy. I always notice how fast my greens sprout when I plant them right after a new moon.

First Quarter to Full Moon – Fruiting Crops

As the moon grows brighter, energy is high, moisture is still rising, and it’s time to plant crops that produce above-ground fruits or pods.

Think:

• Tomatoes
• Beans
• Peas
• Cucumbers
• Squash

I call this the “big dream” phase in the garden, everything feels abundant and full of possibility. Perfect for anything that’s going to bloom and fruit.

Full Moon to Last Quarter – Root Crops

Now the moon is starting to wane, and energy begins to draw back down. This is a great time to plant anything that grows below the soil:

• Carrots
• Beets
• Radishes
• Potatoes
• Onions

The gravitational pull draws moisture inward, helping roots settle and strengthen. I try to do any transplanting during this time too, plants seem to adapt more easily.

Last Quarter to New Moon – Rest, Reflect, Reset

This is a low-energy phase, and I treat it like a pause button. Instead of planting, I:

• Pull weeds
• Prune
• Turn compost
• Clean tools
• Plan the next steps

It’s not the time to force growth, it’s the time to clear space for what’s next. And honestly, I need that reset just as much as the garden does.

Why I Keep Coming Back to It

Gardening with the moon helps me slow down. It reminds me that everything in nature has a season, a flow, a moment to shine. When I plant according to the moon, I’m not rushing, I’m listening.

Does it guarantee perfect results every time? Nope. But it gives me a rhythm to follow and a way to stay in tune with my little plot of earth.

And there’s something really beautiful about looking up at the night sky and thinking, “Okay, tomorrow’s a good day to plant tomatoes.”