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Eco Garden - May 2012
Moon Gardening by Priscilla Woolworth |
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Please check out my blog about Gardening according to the phases of the Moon, where I explain it in more detail: MAY "MILK" MOON PHASE SCHEDULE: April 21st till May 4th: Waxing Moon May 5th: Full Moon May 6th to 19th: Waning Moon May 20th: New Moon May 21st till June 3rd: Waxing Moon Jobs to be done during the month of May are: Buy Tomato seedlings- Go to tomatomania.com and find out where you can buy seedlings in your area up till the end of May. A favorite tomato is the 'Better Bush,' if you want to plant just one variety. When you plant tomatoes, do not add extra nitrogen to the soil as tomatoes don't like it and won't produce fruit. PLANT PLANT PLANT all your vegetables by the end of May so the plants can establish deep roots before the heat of the summer. We should all plant as many of these as possible! I am including a link to a list of bee loving flowers: nature.berkeley.edu/urbanbeegardens The month of May is a great time to feed actively growing plants with fish emulsion, and especially the ones that are container grown will appreciate this. You can dilute it in your watering can even more than the bottle says to. Deadhead, pinch and prune for bushier growth, especially hibiscus, which can get too leggy. Thin out the peaches and nectarines and allow 4 to 6 inches between each fruit. In your flower garden: Plant alyssum, calendula, carnation, chrysanthemum, columbine, coneflower, cosmos, cockscomb, cornflower, delphinium, foxglove, geranium, globe amaranth, hollyhock, impatiens, larkspur, lavender, morning glory, marigold, nasturtium, nigella, penstemon, poppy, rudbeckia, salvia, statice, sticky monkey flower, sunflower, yarrow, zinnia. In your vegetable garden, plant tomato, beans, pepper, eggplant, squash, cucumber, lettuce, leeks, corn, okra, pumpkin, spinach, basil, melon, chard, celery, turnips, carrots, beets, parsnip, radish, and cilantro. This is the best time to plant bananas, cherimoyas and other subtropical fruit such as avocados, and citrus, such as the gorgeous and delicious Meyer Lemon. Thin out your carrots, beets, green onions and lettuce seedlings now. Make sure tomatoes and peas have tall support. Wash aphids off tender new growth by filling a spray bottle with water and spray the aphids right off the plant. You can also buy Ladybugs and release them at dusk. They love to eat aphids. Following is a Moon Gardening calendar for May and which days are best for specific chores: Up till May 5th ( and from May 21st till June 3rd): the Moon is in the Waxing phase, when the lunar gravitational pull brings the water up, which makes it a good time of the month to encourage plant growth and proliferation. Plant seeds, transplant, re-pot, trim and prune for growth. Also, fruits and vegetables that are tender and should be eaten immediately are at their best when gathered at the Waxing Moon, because the water content is higher, salads are crunchier, and fruits are juicier. Recommended days for these garden chores: May 1st: Plant sweet peas and flowering vines May 3rd and 4th: Plant above ground annuals, and herbs May 4th and 5th: Plant above ground annuals May 5th: Full Moon. The Full Moon day and also 2 days after the 5th is the best time to prune, plant seeds (they germinate faster when planted at the full moon because they absorb more water) and fertilize plants as close to the Full Moon as possible. Cut bamboo and sow a lawn or put down sod. The Full Moon is when water is at the highest level in the month and is a really good time for planting and gathering any herbs to be used for their essential oils because oil content is more concentrated at this time. From May 6th till May 19th, the Moon is Waning, and the energy of the earth is drawn down but the gravitational pull is high, creating more moisture in the soil and this energy goes into the roots making it a good time of the month to sow crops that produce their yield below ground and control plant growth by pruning, weeding, and controlling garden pests, as well as dividing perennials. This is the best time for garden maintenance because the growth cycle of plants decreases. Fruit trees do best planted at this time of the month because the position of the moon encourages development of root growth and tree bark, essential to their success. This is also the best time to cut wood, because it resists parasites and cures better. Farmers pick their apples, cabbages, potatoes and onions at the Waning Moon, when water content is lowest and so the harvest stores better and keeps longer. Best time to dry herbs, flowers and fruit and the herbs are at their most potent. Recommended days for these garden chores: May 7th and 8th: Harvest and cultivate your garden, plant tubers and fruit trees May 9th and 10th: Plant for root growth May 11th and 12th: Water, cultivate, weed and control pests May 13th: Mother's Day! May 13th and 14th: Prune, water, compost and fertilize May 16th and 17th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests May 18th and 19th: Water, compost and fertilize, plant peas Mow your lawn to slow growth. First time composting enthusiasts, start your composter during this period because the Waning Moon phase helps aid in the decompositions of plant matter. May 20th: New Moon and starting of waxing phase again. May 21st and 22nd: Plant melons and vines May 23rd, 24th and 25th: Plant above ground annuals May 28th and 29th: Plant flowering vines May 30th and 31st: Plant above ground annuals and herbs Get ready for June 2012 Gardening according to the phases of the Moon! Subscribe to my Almanac and get your free monthly update. Happy gardening! Priscilla Woolworth |
The Valentina Composter appeared Garden Cloches: 4 glass garden cloches- protects plants from the elements and accelerates the growth of young plants: Glass Cloches are available from Amazon |
Eco Garden - April 2012
Moon Gardening by Priscilla Woolworth |
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Please check out my blog about Gardening according to the phases of the Moon, where I explain it in more detail: Gardening according to the phases of the Moon. April "EGG" MOON PHASE SCHEDULE: March 21st till April 5th: Waxing Moon April 6th: Full Moon April 7th till the 19th: Waning moon April 20th: New Moon April 21st till May 4th: Waxing Moon Buy heirloom and organic tomato seedlings- Go to tomatomania.com and find out where you can buy seedlings in your area from end of March till end of May. A favorite tomato is the 'Better Bush,' if you want to plant just one variety. Jobs to be done during the month of April are: The month of April is a great time to plant flowers and vegetables! Dig organic matter into beds and mulch as well, to suppress weeds and conserve water. Be careful not to cover your plants or freshly sown seeds with too much mulch; best to mulch around them. Feed actively growing plants with fish emulsion or compost. Wash aphids off tender new growth by filling a spray bottle with water and add 1 tsp environmentally safe dish-wash soap and spray the aphids right off the plant. Works every time! To get rid of sow-bugs/pill bugs from your seedlings, set traps made with rolled-up newspaper taped at one end. Treat plants with chlorosis, a sign of iron deficiency (yellowing leaves) with organic chelated iron. Plant calendula, carnation, chrysanthemum, columbine, coneflower, cosmos, cockscomb, cornflower, delphinium, dianthus, foxglove, fuschias, geranium, heliopsis, hollyhock, impatiens, larkspur, lavender, lupine, morning glory, marigold, nasturtium, nigella, penstemon, poppy, rudbeckia, salvia, statice, yarrow, zinnia. For the bees especially plant lavender, rosemary, sage, angelica, yarrow, dill, fennel, sweet alyssum, Shasta daisies, sunflowers, coreopsis, black-eyed Susan, Goldenrod, lupine, and wallflower Plant roses, cane berries, grapes, artichoke, asparagus, rhubarb and strawberry. Good drought tolerant choices are sundrops, damianita, angelita daisy, yarrow, California fuschia, lavender, penstemon and salvias. Add to your herb garden: basil, chives, parsley, lemongrass, lemon verbena, mint and tarragon. * Genovese basil is the best In your vegetable garden, plant lettuce, tomato, pepper, eggplant, squash, cucumber, corn, okra, pumpkin, melon, onions, peas, lettuce, spinach, chard, celery, turnips, carrots, beets, parsnip, potatoes, radish, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and lettuce. If you started your carrots, beets, green onions and lettuces last month, thin the seedlings now. Following is a Moon Gardening calendar for April and which days are best for specific chores: March 21st till April 5th: the Moon is in the Waxing phase, when the lunar gravitational pull brings the water up, which makes it a good time of the month to encourage plant growth and proliferation. Plant seeds, transplant, re-pot, trim and prune for growth. Also, fruits and vegetables that are tender and should be eaten immediately are at their best when gathered at the Waxing Moon, because the water content is higher, salads are crunchier, and fruits are juicier. Recommended days for these garden chores: April 3rd and 4th: Plant sweet peas and flowering vines April 5th and 6th: Plant above ground annuals, especially flowers and herbs April 6th: Full Moon From April 7th till the 19th, the Moon is Waning, and the energy of the earth is drawn down but the gravitational pull is high, creating more moisture in the soil and this energy goes into the roots making it a good time of the month to sow crops that produce their yield below ground and control plant growth by pruning, weeding, and dividing perennials. This is the best time for garden maintenance because the growth cycle of plants decreases. Fruit trees do best planted at this time of the month because the position of the moon encourages development of root growth and tree bark, essential to their success. This is also the best time to cut wood, because it resists parasites and cures better. Farmers pick their apples, cabbages, potatoes and onions at the Waning Moon, when water content is lowest and so the harvest stores better and keeps longer. Best time to dry herbs, flowers and fruit and the herbs are at their most potent. Mow your lawn to slow growth. First time Composters, start your composter during this period because the Waning Moon phase helps aid in the decompostions of plant matter. Recommended days for these garden chores: April 7th and 8th: Plant for root growth April 9th, 10th and 11th: Harvest, and cultivate: plant tubers and fruit trees April 13th, 14th and 15th: Harvest, cultivate, and control pests April 16th and 17th: Prune, water, compost and fertilize April 20th: New Moon April 21st: waxing period/plant above ground annuals, such as cabbages April 22nd: EARTH DAY!!! Plant a tree April 24th and 25th: Plant melons and vines April 26th and 27th: Plant above ground annuals April 30th and May 1st: Plant flowering vines Get ready for MAY 2012 Gardening according to the phases of the Moon! Subscribe to my Almanac and get your monthly update every month from me. All the best Priscilla Woolworth |
Love Ladybugs and the kids will too! Release them at dusk all over your garden. Ladybugs are an excellent natural pesticide that love to devour those dreaded aphids. Live Ladybugs are availalbe from Amazon.com Praying Mantids: Praying Mantid egg sacks are not only great fun for small and big kids to watch hatch and then introduce to your garden, but Praying Mantids are a fantastic natural pesticide: they eat loads of unwanted garden pests. Praying Mantis Egg Cases are available through Amazon.com |
Eco Garden - March 2012
Moon Gardening by Priscilla Woolworth |
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Please check out my blog about Gardening according to the phases of the Moon, where I explain it in more detail: Gardening according to the phases of the Moon. March "CROW" MOON PHASE SCHEDULE: February 29th till March 7th: Waxing Moon *Buy Tomato seedlings- Go to http://www.tomatomania.com and find out where you can buy seedlings in your area from end of March till end of May. Garden Chores to be done in March: Plant coreopsis, cosmos, marigolds and yarrow near your vegetable garden to lure in ladybugs, hoverflies and lacewings; they will keep away your insect pests. Check for aphids in the new growth and get rid of them by spraying with water; repeat weekly. Plant roses, cane berries, grapes, artichoke, rhubarb and strawberry. Best time to plant Citrus trees Good time to add nitrogen rich Blood Meal to your plants, fruit and ornamental trees, shrubs, lawns, container plants, houseplants, perennials, and groundcovers. Feed azaleas, camellias and rhododendrons with acid fertilizer and prune after bloom. Great time to start your herb garden by planting seeds of arugula, chervil, cilantro and dill as well as chives, parsley, rosemary, sage, savory and tarragon. Plant in your flower garden: coreopsis, cornflower, flowering tobacco, larkspur, marigold, calendula, cosmos, geranium, nasturtium, nigella, poppy, salvia, zinnia, coneflower, dianthus, foxglove, hollyhock, penstemon, columbine, delphinium, lavender, statice, and yarrow Plant in your vegetable garden: lettuce, spinach, tomato, pepper, eggplant, squash, cucumber, pumpkin, melon, basil, onion, peas, chard, celery, turnip, carrot, beet, parsnip, radish, potato, chives, parsley, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, leeks, mustard, and tomato Following is a Moon Gardening calendar for March and which days are best for specific chores: February 29th till March 7th: the Moon is in the Waxing phase, when the lunar gravitational pull brings the water up, which makes it a good time of the month to encourage plant growth and proliferation. Plant seeds, transplant, re-pot, trim and prune for growth. Also, fruits and vegetables that are tender and should be eaten immediately are at their best when gathered at the Waxing Moon, because the water content is higher, salads are crunchier, and fruits are juicier. Recommended days for these garden chores:
From March 9th till March 21st, the Moon is Waning, and the energy of the earth is drawn down but the gravitational pull is high, creating more moisture in the soil and this energy goes into the roots making it a good time of the month to sow crops that produce their yield below ground and control plant growth by pruning, weeding, and controlling garden pests, as well as dividing perennials. This is the best time for garden maintenance because the growth cycle of plants decreases. Fruit trees do best planted at this time of the month because the position of the moon encourages development of root growth and tree bark, essential to their success. This is also the best time to cut wood, because it resists parasites and cures better. Farmers pick their apples, cabbages, potatoes and onions at the Waning Moon, when water content is lowest and so the harvest stores better and keeps longer. Best time to dry herbs, flowers and fruit and the herbs are at their most potent. Recommended days for these garden chores:
Get ready for April 2012 Gardening according to the phases of the Moon! Subscribe to my Almanac and get your monthly update every month from me. Thank you Priscilla Woolworth |
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The Yard Butler
I love the name. For years, I have used this sort of roto-digger to dig down in earth too hard for me to plant in. Since I hate waiting for someone to help me, I just attach the drill bit to my drill and drill away into the ground and making my gardening work so much easier, as well as doing a great job aerating the soil. Really good for getting rid of those deep-rooted weeds once and for all too. Drill holes up to 28" deep and 1-3/4" wide. Use on a 3/8" or larger electric or cordless drill.
Eco Garden - February 2012
Moon Gardening by Priscilla Woolworth |
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Please check out my blog about Gardening according to the phases of the Moon, where I explain it in more detail: Gardening according to the phases of the Moon. FEBRUARY MOON PHASE SCHEDULE: February 1rst to 6th: Waxing Moon Garden Chores to be done in February: Plant camellias, flowering bulbs, bare root fruit trees, roses, cane berries, grapes, artichoke, asparagus, rhubarb, strawberries and perennial flowers Finish pruning deciduous fruit trees and fertilize them before the buds swell Dig and divide perennials Prune berries, grapes, roses, shrubs and vines Prune citrus and fertilize at the end of the month Fertilize perennials, bulbs and figs Plant in your flower garden: candytuft, columbine, coreopsis, delphinium, foxglove, hollyhock, lobelia, lupine, lavender, nicotiana, penstemon, poppy, salvia, stock, sweet peas, and yarrow Plant in your vegetable garden: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, kale, leeks, mustard, chard, peas, lettuce, spinach, celery, carrots, beets, parsnip, radish, potatoes, tomato, pepper, and eggplant February 1rst till February 6th: the Moon is in the Waxing phase, when the lunar gravitational pull brings the water up, which makes it a good time of the month to encourage plant growth and proliferation. Plant seeds, transplant, re-pot, trim and prune for growth. Also, fruits and vegetables that are tender and should be eaten immediately are at their best when gathered at the Waxing Moon, because the water content is higher, salads are crunchier, and juicier. Recommended Days for these garden chores: February 4th and 5th: Plant above ground annuals February 7th: Full moon The 4 days before and also 4 days after the Full Moon is the best time to prune, plant seeds (they germinate faster when planted at the full moon because they absorb more water) and fertilize plants as close to the Full Moon as possible. Cut bamboo and sow a lawn or put down sod. The Full Moon, when water is at the highest level in the month. Best time to pick tomatoes, and harvest grapes to be used in winemaking as close to the full moon as possible because the grapes will retain more juice and bouquet. Gather any herbs to be used for their essential oils at the Full Moon because oil content is more concentrated at this time. From February 8th till the 20th, the Moon is Waning, and the energy of the earth is drawn down but the gravitational pull is high, creating more moisture in the soil and this energy goes into the roots making it a good time of the month to sow crops that produce their yield below ground and control plant growth by pruning, weeding, and controlling garden pests, as well as dividing perennials. This is the best time for garden maintenance because the growth cycle of plants decreases. Fruit trees do best planted at this time of the month because the position of the moon encourages development of root growth and tree bark, essential to their success. This is also the best time to cut wood, because it resists parasites and cures better. Farmers pick their apples, cabbages, potatoes and onions at the Waning Moon, when water content is lowest and so the harvest stores better and keeps longer. Best time to dry herbs, flowers and fruit and the herbs are at their most potent. Also, add potassium fertilizer to plants that need it because it will be better absorbed at this time. Mow your lawn to slow growth. First time composters, start your composter during this period because the Waning Moon phase helps aid in the decomposition of plant matter. Recommended days for these garden chores: February 8th and 9th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests February 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th: Plant for root growth, divide perennials, especially flowers and herbs and prune February 15th and 16th: Harvest, cultivate, weed and control garden pests February 17th and 18th: Graft, prune and control pests February 19th and 20th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests February 21rst: New Moon February 21rst and 22nd: Plant above ground annuals February 26th, 27th and 28th: Plant above ground annuals, especially cabbage and leafy vegetables Get ready for March 2012 Gardening according to the phases of the Moon! Subscribe to my Almanac and get your monthly update every month from me. Take care Priscilla Woolworth |
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Raised Garden Planter
Makes gardening so much easier! Using this 24"x24" raised cedar garden bed planter, you can now plant, weed, grow, and harvest your garden without ever having to get down on your hands and knees. This 24" high rectangular container allows you to work comfortably standing. Western cedar is a natural insect and weather resistant wood that will weather to a lovely silver gray. Bottom shelf is sold separately. Cedar Creek 2424 Raised Garden Planter available through Amazon.
Eco Garden - January 2012
Moon Gardening by Priscilla Woolworth |
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Please check out my blog about Gardening according to the phases of the Moon, where I explain it in more detail: Gardening according to the phases of the Moon. January "OLD MOON" Phase Schedule: January 1st to 8th: Waxing Moon Garden Chores to be done during the month of January are: The month of January is a great time to prune deciduous fruit trees such as fig, peach, almond, apricot, apple and nectarine, and before leaf buds form. You should also prune your roses, grape vine, wisteria, asparagus, artichoke, and rhubarb. Buy and plant flower bulbs, camellias, blueberries, and strawberries. Buy and plant grapes such as Vitis labrusca. Blueberries, cherries, and apples need to be pollinated, so it's best to buy a self-pollinating variety or plant two varieties that cross-pollinate. I did this for my blueberry bushes and so far so good. Order seeds from catalogs Clean up leaves to control slugs Plant in your flower garden: candytuft, columbine, coreopsis, delphinium, dianthus, dusty miller, foxglove, hollyhock, lobelia, lupine, lavender, nicotiana, penstemon, petunia, poppy, salvia, statice, stock, snapdragons, sweet peas, verbena, and yarrow. Plant in your vegetable garden: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, leeks, cabbage, spinach, and onions. Following is a Moon Gardening calendar for January and which days are best for specific chores: January 1st till January 8th: the Moon is in the Waxing phase, when the lunar gravitational pull brings the water up, which makes it a good time of the month to encourage plant growth and proliferation. Plant seeds, transplant, re-pot, trim and prune for growth. Also, fruits and vegetables that are tender and should be eaten immediately are at their best when gathered at the Waxing Moon, because the water content is higher, salads are crunchier, and fruits are juicier. Recommended days for these garden chores: January 2nd, 3rd and 4th: Plant above ground annuals January 7th: Plant above ground annuals January 8th, the day of the Full Moon and also 2 days after is the best time to prune, plant seeds (they germinate faster when planted at the full moon because they absorb more water) and also fertilize plants as close to the Full Moon as possible. Cut bamboo and sow a lawn or put down sod. The day of the Full Moon is when water is at the highest level in the month and is a really good time for planting and gathering any herbs to be used for their essential oils because oil content is more concentrated at this time. From January 10th till January 22nd, the Moon is Waning, and the energy of the earth is drawn down but the gravitational pull is high, creating more moisture in the soil and this energy goes into the roots making it a good time of the month to sow crops that produce their yield below ground and control plant growth by pruning, weeding, and controlling garden pests, as well as dividing perennials. This is the best time for garden maintenance because the growth cycle of plants decreases. Fruit trees do best planted at this time of the month because the position of the moon encourages development of root growth and tree bark, essential to their success. This is also the best time to cut wood, because it resists parasites and cures better. Farmers pick their apples, cabbages, potatoes and onions at the Waning Moon, when water content is lowest and so the harvest stores better and keeps longer. Best time to dry herbs, flowers and fruit and the herbs are at their most potent. Recommended days for these garden chores: January 12th and 13th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests January 14th, 15th and 16th: Plant for root growth and divide perennial flowers and herbs January 17th: Prune, water, compost, and fertilize January 19th and 20th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control garden pests January 21st and 22nd: Graft, prune, and control pests January 22nd: New Moon January 25th and 26th: Plant above ground annuals January 30th and 31st: Plant above ground annuals Mow your lawn to slow growth. First time Composters, start your composter during this period because the Waning Moon phase helps aid in the decomposing of plant matter. Get ready for February 2012 Gardening according to the phases of the Moon! Subscribe to my Almanac and get your free monthly update from me. Take care Priscilla Woolworth |
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Eco Garden - December 2011
Moon Gardening by Priscilla Woolworth |
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December "LONG NIGHT MOON" Phase Schedule: Garden Chores to be done during the month of December are: The month of December is a great time to dig up and move plants. Fertlize the winter vegetables you are growing and the annuals to promote steady growth with fish emulsion or worm juice. Fertilize cymbidiums with a bloom-promoting fertilizer such as 15-30-15 until buds open. Shop for bare-root roses, cane berries, and perennial vegetables such as artichoke, asparagus, and rhubarb. Plant them as soon as you have brought them home. Mulch your beds to keep the soil from compacting in the rain and to keep weeds down. Watch for Aphid infestation in your vegetable garden especially in the broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and chard by spraying then daily with a mix of water mixed with a Tbsp of non-toxic soap. Plant calendula, coreopsis, candytuft, clarkia, dianthus, dusty miller, lobelia, lupine, nicotiana, petunia, poppy, salvia, scabiosa, stock, strawflower, snap dragons, sweet pea, verbena and perennials such as carnation, chrysanthemum, columbine, delphinium, foxglove, hollyhock, lavender, penstemon, pincushion flower, poppy, rudbeckia, salvia, statice, and yarrow. Plant in your vegetable garden: onion, garlic, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collards, kale, and lettuce. Following is a Moon Gardening calendar for August and which days are best for specific chores: August 1st till August 12th: the Moon is in the Waxing phase, when the lunar gravitational pull brings the water up, which makes it a good time of the month to encourage plant growth and proliferation. Plant seeds, transplant, re-pot, trim and prune for growth. Also, fruits and vegetables that are tender and should be eaten immediately are at their best when gathered at the Waxing Moon, because the water content is higher, salads are crunchier, and fruits are juicier. Recommended days for these garden chores: December 1st and 2nd: Plant above ground annuals December 6th, 7th and 8th: Plant above ground annuals, especially cabbages and leafy greens December 10th, the day of the Full Moon and also 2 days after is the best time to prune, plant seeds (they germinate faster when planted at the full moon because they absorbe more water) and also fertilize plants as close to the Full Moon as possible. Cut bamboo and sow a lawn or put down sod. The day of the Full Moon is when water is at the highest level in the month and is a really good time for planting and gathering any herbs to be used for their essential oils because oil content is more concentrated at this time. From December 11th till December 23rd, the Moon is Waning, and the energy of the earth is drawn down but the gravitational pull is high, creating more moisture in the soil and this energy goes into the roots making it a good time of the month to sow crops that produce their yield below ground and control plant growth by pruning, weeding, and controling garden pests, as well as dividing perennials. This is the best time for garden maintenance because the growth cycle of plants decreases. Fruit trees do best planted at this time of the month because the position of the moon encourages development of root growth and tree bark, essential to their success. This is also the best time to cut wood, because it resists parasites and cures better. Farmers pick their apples, cabbages, potatoes and onions at the Waning Moon, when water content is lowest and so the harvest stores better and keeps longer. Best time to dry herbs, flowers and fruit and the herbs are at their most potent. Recommended days for these garden chores: Mow your lawn to slow growth. First time Composters, start your composter during this period because the Waning Moon phase helps aid in the decompostions of plant matter. Get ready for January 2012 Gardening according to the phases of the Moon! Subscribe to my Almanac and get your free monthly update from me. Take care Priscilla Woolworth |
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Eco Garden - November 2011
Moon Gardening by Priscilla Woolworth |
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Check out my blog: Gardening according to the phases of the Moon, and learn why and how the Moon's position affects your garden: November "Beaver Moon" Phase Schedule: November 2nd to 9th: Waxing Moon November 10th: Full Moon November 11th to 23rd: Waning Moon November 24th: New Moon November 25th till December 9th: Waxing Moon Garden Chores to be done during the month of November are: Great time to plant bulbs, pull weeds, apply organic fertilizer, and irrigate when it's not raining Adjust the sprinkler system to run less often, and turn them off during regular rains November is also a great time to plant a blue-eyed grass with little purple flowers called Sisyrinchium idahoense bellum, a California native with a long blooming period Plant strawberries in the first half of November, 1 foot apart in rich, loose soil that gets full sun Plant natives Gilia tricolor and California poppy Clean out gutters, downspouts, and swales Buy rain barrels to collect rainwater for plants Clean up fallen leaves around fruit trees Pick persimmons as soon as they are fully colored, before the birds get to them. Allow fruit to ripen indoors Watch out for slugs and snails around your new plantings. Turn your compost pile and keep it damp Plant in your flower garden winter and spring bulbs, spring wildflowers, bee balm, calendula, candytuft, clarkia, cornflower, columbine, coreopsis, dianthus, foxglove, larkspur, nigella, poppy, snapdragon, sweet peas, dusty miller, lobelia, lupine, petunia, scabiosa, stock, verbena, agapanthus, carnation, delphinium, hollyhock, lavender, penstemon, rudbeckia, salvia, statice, and yarrow In your vegetable garden plant spinach, lettuce, peas, turnips, carrots, beets, parsnip, onions, Swiss chard, radish, chives, parsley, cilantro, garlic, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and lettuce Following is a Moon Gardening calendar for November and which days are best for specific chores: November 2nd till the 9th: the Moon is in the Waxing phase, when the lunar gravitational pull brings the water up, which makes it a good time of the month to encourage plant growth and proliferation. Plant seeds, transplant, re-pot, trim and prune for growth. Also, fruits and vegetables that are tender and should be eaten immediately are at their best when gathered at the Waxing Moon, because the water content is higher, salads are crunchier, and fruits are juicier. November 4th: Plant above ground annuals. Recommended days for these garden chores: November 10th, the day of the Full Moon and also 2 days after is the best time to prune, plant seeds (they germinate faster when planted at the full moon) and also fertilize plants as close to the Full Moon as possible. Cut bamboo and sow a lawn or put down sod. The day of the Full Moon is when water is at the highest level in the month and is a really good time for planting and gathering any herbs to be used for their essential oils because oil content is more concentrated at this time. November 9th and 10th: Plant above ground annuals, especially cabbages and leafy greens. November 11th and 12th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests. November 13th: Harvest and cultivate. From November 12th till the 25th, the Moon is Waning, and the energy of the earth is drawn down but the gravitational pull is high, creating more moisture in the soil and this energy goes into the roots making it a good time of the month to sow crops that produce their yield below ground and control plant growth by pruning, weeding, and controling garden pests, as well as dividing perennials. This is the best time for garden maintenance because the growth cycle of plants decreases. Fruit trees do best planted at this time of the month because the position of the moon encourages development of root growth and tree bark, essential to their success. This is also the best time to cut wood, because it resists parasites and cures better. Farmers pick their apples, cabbages, potatoes and onions at the Waning Moon, when water content is lowest and so the harvest stores better and keeps longer. Best time to dry herbs, flowers and fruit and the herbs are at their most potent. Recommended days for these garden chores: November 14th and 15th: Plant for root growth, and divide perennials. November 16th and 17th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests November 18th and 19th: Harvest and cultivate, especially medicinal plants. November 20th: Harvest and cultivate. November 21rst and 22nd: Water, compost and fertilize November 23rd and 24th: Prune, water, compost and fertilize Mow your lawn to slow growth. First time composters, start your composter during this period because the Waning Moon phase helps aid in the decomposition of plant matter. Get ready for December 2011 Gardening according to the phases of the Moon! Subscribe to my Almanac and get your free monthly update. I hope this calendar is helpful to you. Take care Priscilla Woolworth |
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Eco Garden - October 2011
Moon Gardening by Priscilla Woolworth |
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Check out my blog: Gardening according to the phases of the Moon, and learn why and how the Moon's position affects your garden: October "Hunter's" Moon Phase Schedule: In your vegetable garden plant: broccoli, cauliflower, collards, kale, garlic, spinach, lettuce, peas, chard, turnips, carrots, beets, parsnip, radish, chives, parsley, cilantro, dill, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage Following is a Moon Gardening calendar for October and which days are best for specific chores: Mow your lawn to slow growth. First time Composters, start your composter during this period because the Waning Moon phase helps aid in the decompositions of plant matter. Get ready for November 2011 Gardening according to the phases of the Moon! Subscribe to my Almanac and get your free monthly update. |
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Eco Garden - September 2011
Moon Gardening by Priscilla Woolworth |
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Please check out my blog about Gardening according to the phases of the Moon, where I explain it in more detail: September "HARVEST" MOON PHASE SCHEDULE: September 1st to 11th: Waxing Moon September 12th: Full Moon September 13th to 26th: Waning Moon September 27th: New Moon September 28th till October 10th: Waxing Moon Garden Chores to be done during the month of September are: Continue harvesting your fruits and vegetables Fertilize established trees, shrubs, groundcovers, and warm season grasses Feed roses one last time for a strong late bloom Fertilize cymbidiums with a high phosphorus formula 15-30-15 Keep soil cool and protect plants during this hot month by spreading organic mulch up to 4" thick on the beds, making sure to keep mulch away from tree trunks and emerging plants Prune off or deadhead spent blooms and cane berries Divide crowded perennials after bloom Water trees and citrus deeply Buy farmstand bulbs and plant garlic cloves 6 " apart, pointed ends up & tops 1"deep Force summer crops by pinching off new blossoms and growing tips on eggplant, melons, squash, and tomatoes If your soil needs improving, one easy way to do this is by planting a cover crop of crimson clover. It's low, tidy, and easy to till under in early spring Turn your compost pile and keep it damp. Plant bulbs, spring wildflowers, bee balm, calendula, candytuft, clarkia, cornflower, columbine, coreopsis, dianthus, dusty miller, lobelia, lupine, nicotiana, petunia, foxglove, larkspur, nigella, painted daisy, pansy, poppy, snapdragon, sweet pea, sweet alyssum, salvia, scabiosa, stock, verbena, chrysanthemum, delphinium, hollyhock, lavender, penstemon, pincushion flower, rudbeckia, statice, and yarrow. In your vegetable garden plant: lettuce, peas, spinach, chard, turnips, carrots, beets, parsnip, potatoes, radish, bush beans, chives, parsley, cilantro, arugula, chervil, dill, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, caulifower, collards, kale, celery, onions and garlic. Following is a Moon Gardening calendar for September and which days are best for specific chores: September 1st till the 11th: the Moon is in the Waxing phase, when the lunar gravitational pull brings the water up, which makes it a good time of the month to encourage plant growth and proliferation. Plant seeds, transplant, re-pot, trim and prune for growth. Also, fruits and vegetables that are tender and should be eaten immediately are at their best when gathered at the Waxing Moon, because the water content is higher, salads are crunchier, and fruits are juicier. Recommended days for these garden chores: September 1st till the 3rd: Plant above ground annual flowers and herbs September 5th: Labor Day-Take a break from the gardenJ September 11th and 12th: Plant above ground annuals September 12th, the day of the Full Moon and also 2 days after is the best time to prune, plant seeds (they germinate faster when planted at the full moon because they absorbe more water) and also fertilize plants as close to the Full Moon as possible. Cut bamboo and sow a lawn or put down sod. The day of the Full Moon is when water is at the highest level in the month and is a really good time for planting and gathering any herbs to be used for their essential oils because oil content is more concentrated at this time. From September 13th till the 26th, the Moon is Waning, and the energy of the earth is drawn down but the gravitational pull is high, creating more moisture in the soil and this energy goes into the roots making it a good time of the month to sow crops that produce their yield below ground and control plant growth by pruning, weeding, and controling garden pests, as well as dividing perennials. This is the best time for garden maintenance because the growth cycle of plants decreases. Fruit trees do best planted at this time of the month because the position of the moon encourages development of root growth and tree bark, essential to their success. This is also the best time to cut wood, because it resists parasites and cures better. Farmers pick their apples, cabbages, potatoes and onions at the Waning Moon, when water content is lowest and so the harvest stores better and keeps longer. Best time to dry herbs, flowers and fruit and the herbs are at their most potent. Recommended days for these garden chores: September 13th and 14th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests September 16th and 17th: Plant for root growth, and divide perennials. September 18th and 19th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests September 20th, 21rst and 22nd: Prune, water, compost, and fertilize September 23rd and 24th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests. September 23rd: Autumn Equinox-The first day of fall September 25th: Harvest fruit and vegetables September 27th: New Moon September 27th and 28th: Plant above ground annuals, especially flowers and herbs September 29th and 30th: Plant above ground annuals for hardiness Mow your lawn to slow growth. First time Composters, start your composter during this period because the Waning Moon phase helps aid in the decompostions of plant matter. Get ready for October 2011 Gardening according to the phases of the Moon! Subscribe to my Almanac and get your monthly update from me. I hope this calendar is helpful to you J. Take care Priscilla Woolworth |
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Eco Garden - August 2011
Moon Gardening by Priscilla Woolworth |
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Please check out my blog about Gardening according to the phases of the Moon, where I explain it in more detail: August "GRAIN MOON" PHASE SCHEDULE: August 1st to 12th: Waxing Moon August 13th: Full Moon August 14th till August 27th: Waning Moon August 28th: New Moon Garden Chores to be done during the month of August are: The month of August is a great time to plant bearded Irises; they are very tough and drought resistant. Bearded irises provide several bloom cycles a year; chose from 'Feedback', 'Frequent Flyer', or 'Summer Olympics' and plant the rhizomes in late august. Start germinating broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collard, kale and mustard greens. Transplant seedlings into the garden when they're about 4" tall. If you live in a fire-pron area, remove all dead limbs, cut tall grasses, cut weeds down to a stubble, clean leaves from gutters, clean leaves from trees and shrubs, especially near your home. According to the Moon calendar, August is the best month to cut trees down. Feed your cymbidiums. Check plants for chlorosis and treat with iron chelate. Harvest continuously for more production. Pick herbs and lavender mid-morning for drying, cut off spent blossoms to encourage more blooming. Mulch to suppress weeds and conserve water. Prepare beds for fall crops by adding organic matter. Continue to pinch side shoots of tomatoes and give them support. Prune hydrangeas flowers that have faded to brown or green, cutting back each stalk that has bloomed, leaving only 2 buds for flowers next year. Plant bee balm, calendula, carnation, coreopsis, cornflower, candytuft, clarkia, columbine, chrysanthemum, delphinium, dianthus, dusty miller, foxglove, hollyhock, larkspur, lobelia, lupine, lavender, nigella, nicotiana, petunia, penstemon, poppy, rudbeckia, salvia, scabiosa, statice, stock, snapdragon, sweet pea, sweet alyssum, verbena, yarrow. In your vegetable garden: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, collards, kale, lettuce, spinach, leeks, mustard greens, bunching onions, peas, chard, celery, turnips, carrots, beets, parsnip, radish, bush beans, chives, parsley, cilantro, dill, cauliflower. Following is a Moon Gardening calendar for August and which days are best for specific chores: August 1st till August 12th: the Moon is in the Waxing phase, when the lunar gravitational pull brings the water up, which makes it a good time of the month to encourage plant growth and proliferation. Plant seeds, transplant, re-pot, trim and prune for growth. Also, fruits and vegetables that are tender and should be eaten immediately are at their best when gathered at the Waxing Moon, because the water content is higher, salads are crunchier, and fruits are juicier. Recommended days for these garden chores: August 1st: Plant flowering vines August 3rd and 4th: Plant above ground annuals, especially flowers and herbs August 5th and 6th: Plant above ground annuals August 14th: Plant for root growth August 13th, the day of the Full Moon and also 2 days after is the best time to prune, plant seeds (they germinate faster when planted at the full moon because they absorbe more water) and also fertilize plants as close to the Full Moon as possible. Cut bamboo and sow a lawn or put down sod. The day of the Full Moon is when water is at the highest level in the month and is a really good time for planting and gathering any herbs to be used for their essential oils because oil content is more concentrated at this time. From August 14th till August 27th, the Moon is Waning, and the energy of the earth is drawn down but the gravitational pull is high, creating more moisture in the soil and this energy goes into the roots making it a good time of the month to sow crops that produce their yield below ground and control plant growth by pruning, weeding, and controling garden pests, as well as dividing perennials. This is the best time for garden maintenance because the growth cycle of plants decreases. Fruit trees do best planted at this time of the month because the position of the moon encourages development of root growth and tree bark, essential to their success. This is also the best time to cut wood, because it resists parasites and cures better. Farmers pick their apples, cabbages, potatoes and onions at the Waning Moon, when water content is lowest and so the harvest stores better and keeps longer. Best time to dry herbs, flowers and fruit and the herbs are at their most potent. Recommended days for these garden chores: August 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests August 19th and 20th: Plant for root growth, and divide perennials August 21st: Divide perennials August 22nd and 23rd: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests August 24th: Prune, water, compost and fertilize August 26th and 27th: Harvest, cultivate, weed, and control pests August 28th: New Moon August 28th and 29th: Plant flowering vines August 30th and 31st: Plant above ground annuals, especially perennial flowers and herbs Mow your lawn to slow growth. First time Composters, start your composter during this period because the Waning Moon phase helps aid in the decompostions of plant matter. Get ready for September 2011 Gardening according to the phases of the Moon! Subscribe to my Almanac and get your monthly update from me. Take care Priscilla Woolworth |
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