December Phases and Signs

Here’s my December Overview containing all you need to know about the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac. If you have questions or comments, don’t hesitate to be in touch.

The moon

 December began and ends with the moon in the light phase. The light moon rules until the full moon appears at 7:06 p.m. EST on Dec. 13 and then returns at 1:53 a.m. Dec. 29, continuing until the first full moon in January of 2017.

For most of Dec. 13 and through all of Dec. 28, the dark moon rules.

“General Tips” for dark- and light-moon activities are below and for veggies, it’s above-ground producers in the light moon and below-ground producers when the dark phase is in.

The signs

Remember: Check to see if the moon is in the light or dark phase (information above) before proceeding with planting or other activities.

December began and ends with so-so signs ruling, so that’s where we will begin, too.

So-so days: These aren’t particularly fertile nor destructive, just so-so. They appear in this order: Capricorn (the knees), Dec. 28-29; Aquarius (the legs), Dec. 3-4, 30-31; and Sagittarius (the thighs), Dec. 25-27. If you like so-so signs, we have plenty in December - a total of 11.

Fertile signs: These are the most fertile signs in the zodiac. Here’s the breakdown as they occur this month: Pisces (the feet), Dec. 5-7; Taurus (the neck), 10-11; Cancer (the breast), Dec. 14-15 and Scorpio (the secrets), Dec. 23-24. There nine days this month ruled by the four most fertile signs.

Killing signs: No planting, transplanting, or dealing with things you want to thrive should occur on these days. Reserve them for cultivating, cleaning out fencerows — anything but planting: Aries (the head), Dec. 8-9 and Leo (the heart), Dec. 16-17. There are four killing days in December.

Gemini days: Gemini (the arms) rules Dec. 12-13.

Flowering days: These are “bloom days” and well suited for planting flowers. Virgo (the bowels) rules Dec. 18-19; and Libra (the reins) is in force Dec. 20-22. There are five flowering days this month.

General tips

Here are a few general tips for activities other than planting:

>If you have gravel to pour on a drive or roadway, do that when the light moon rules until 7:06 p.m. on Dec. 13 and then most of Dec. 29 until the full moon on Jan. 12. The same applies for stones on a garden path: Place them when the moon is in the light phase so they don’t sink.

>If you’re setting fence posts, do that in the light of the moon so the posts don’t sink.

>If you’re putting on a new shingle roof, do that when the moon’s in the dark phase so that the shingles stick down and don’t curl up on the ends.

>Making changes: Finally, we are getting some perfect days this month that fit the formula for making changes with the moon in the dark phase and the signs going out of the body beyond anything that functions.

Those days are Dec. 25-28, FOUR of them with the moon in the dark phase and the sign in Sagittarius (the thighs) on Dec. 25-27 and then one day in Capricorn (the knees). This is the largest number of perfect days we’ve had for making changes in months!

 If you are looking for perfect days to wean animals or children, stop smoking, start a diet or exercise program, schedule elective surgery – anything that requires a change – then these are your days!

And the good thing is, with this pattern developing there will be even more perfect ones in January – the month when everyone makes New Year’s Resolutions!

November Overview

My apologies to be running behind with posting my November Overview containing all you need to know about the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac. If you have questions or comments, don’t hesitate to be in touch.

Remember that times here are Eastern Standard.

The moon

 November began and ends with the moon in the light phase. The light moon rules until the full moon appears at 8:52 a.m. on Nov. 14 and then returns at 7:18 a.m. Nov. 29, continuing until the full moon at 7:06 p.m. Dec. 13.

For most of Nov. 14 and through all of Nov. 28, the dark moon rules.

“General Tips” for dark- and light-moon activities are below and for veggies, it’s above-ground producers in the light moon and below-ground producers when the dark phase is in.

The signs

Remember: Check to see if the moon is in the light or dark phase (information above) before proceeding with planting indoors or out, or other activities.

Fertile signs: These are the most fertile signs in the zodiac. Here’s the breakdown as they occur this month: Pisces (the feet), Nov. 8-9; Taurus (the neck), 12-13; Cancer (the breast), Nov. 16-17 and Scorpio (the secrets), Nov. 26-27. There eight days this month ruled by the four most fertile sign, the absolute minimum.

Killing signs: No planting, transplanting, or dealing with things you want to thrive should occur on these days. Reserve them for cultivating, cleaning out fencerows — anything but planting: Aries (the head), Nov. 10-11 and Leo (the heart), Nov. 18-20. There are five killing days in November.

Gemini days: Gemini (the arms) rules Nov. 14-15. Gemini is the “bean sign.”

Flowering days: These are “bloom days” and well suited for planting 

flowers. Virgo (the bowels) rules Nov. 21-22; and Libra (the reins) is in force Nov. 23-25. There are five flowering days this month.

So-so days: These aren’t particularly fertile nor destructive, just so-so. Since the month began with seven straight, there are only three left, Nov. 28-30, when Sagittarius (the thighs) is in force.
General tips

Here are a few general tips for activities other than planting:

>If you have gravel to pour on a drive or roadway, do that when the light moon rules through Nov. 13 and then most of Nov. 29-Dec. 13.  The same applies for stones on a garden path: Place them when the moon is in the light phase so they don’t sink.

>If you’re setting fence posts, do that in the light of the moon so the posts don’t sink.

>If you’re putting on a new shingle roof, do that when the moon’s in the dark phase so that the shingles stick down and don’t curl up on the ends.

>Making changes: There is one day this month that fits the formula perfectly for making changes with the moon in the dark phase and the signs going out of the body beyond anything that functions.

That day is Nov. 28 with the moon in the last day of the dark moon and the sign in Sagittarius (the thighs). If you are looking for a perfect day to wean animals or children, stop smoking, start a diet or exercise program, schedule elective surgery – anything that requires a change – then this is your day!

In my opinion, second best stretch will be Nov. 29-Dec. 7 with the moon in the light phase but the signs going out of the body beyond anything that functions.

September 2016 Overview

Here’s my September overview containing all you need to know about planting your garden by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac. If you have questions or comments, don’t hesitate to be in touch.

The outdoor planting season is pretty much done in my neck of the woods, Zone 6B, but it may not be in yours. Just check and see what you can still plant – and for anyone reading this in the Southern Hemisphere, your planting season is just cranking up.

All times given are Eastern Daylight Saving Time.

The moon

Technically, September began with the dark moon in force, but only for the first five hours and three minutes with the new moon having come to rule at 5:03 a.m. Sept. 1. We actually have two new moons in the month, the second being on the last day of the month, Sept. 30 at 8:11 p.m.

How about that for an unusual occurrence?

The light moon is in force until the full moon at 3:05 p.m. Sept. 16, and rules until the month’s second new moon at 8:11 p.m. on Sept. 30.

“General Tips” for dark- and light-moon activities are below and for veggies, it’s above-ground producers in the light moon and below-ground producers when the dark phase is in.

The signs

Remember: Check to see if the moon is in the light or dark phase (information above) before proceeding with planting, or other activities, indoors or out.

September began with and ends with flowering signs, so that’s where we will begin, too.

Flowering days: These are “bloom days” and well suited for planting flowers. If you plant on these bloom days and take care of the flowers, you will have a real show. Virgo (the bowels), rules Sept. 1, 27-29; and Libra (the reins) is in force Sept. 2-4 and 30. There are eight flowering days this month.

Fertile signs: Scorpio (the secrets), Sept. 5-6; Pisces (the feet), Sept. 14-16; Taurus (the neck), 19-20; and Cancer (the breast), Sept. 23-24. Again this month, nine days are ruled by the most fertile signs — Scorpio, Pisces, Taurus and Cancer.

So-so days: These aren’t particularly fertile nor destructive, just so-so. They are in this order: Sagittarius (the thighs), Sept. 7-9; Capricorn (the knees), Sept. 10-11; and Aquarius (the legs), Sept. 12-13. There are seven days in September ruled by the three so-so signs. All are in the light of the moon.

Killing signs: No planting, transplanting, or dealing with things you want to thrive should occur on these days. Reserve them for cultivating, cleaning out fencerows — anything but planting: Aries (the head), Sept. 17-18; and Leo (the heart), Sept. 25-26. Only four killing days this month, down from seven or eight in August!

Gemini days: Gemini (the arms) rules Sept. 21-22. Gemini is the “bean sign.”

General tips

Here are a few general tips for activities other than planting:

>If you have gravel to pour on a drive or roadway, do that when the light moon rules through Sept. 15. The same applies for stones on a garden path: Place them when the moon is in the light phase so they don’t sink.

>If you’re setting fence posts, do that in the light of the moon so the posts don’t sink.

>If you’re putting on a new shingle roof, do that when the moon’s in the dark phase so that the shingles stick down and don’t curl up on the ends. Originally that applied to cedar shakes, and still does, but it is just as valid for modern asphalt roofs since we want them to adhere to the sheeting below.

>There is only a portion of Sept. 16 that is perfect for making changes this month and that just from 3 p.m. until midnight when the moon is in the dark phase and the sign is in Pisces (the feet). The other three perfect signs -Sagittarius, Capricorn, and Aquarius - are when the moon is in the light phase.

That said, if you have changes you can choose when the moon is in the dark phase, Sept. 16-29, or when the signs are going out of the body in Sagittarius (thighs), through Pisces (feet) when the moon is still in the light phase but moving toward the dark moon on the 16^th.

That sequence would be my choice, Sept. 7-16.

The moon is in the dark phase beginning late on the 16^th, as we have established­­ but on the 17^th the sign moves to Aries (the head).

See you next month!

August Overview

Here’s my August overview containing all you need to know about planting your garden by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac. If you have questions or comments, don’t hesitate to be in touch.

Below I’ve included a bit about fall gardens, too. Here at the height of summer and the harvest season we have to be aware of what’s coming for our late plantings.

All times given are Eastern Daylight Saving and information is for USDA Planting Zone 6A. Just adjust accordingly to where you are.

The moon

August began – but just barely - and ends with the moon in the dark phase. The full – or dark - moon rules until 4:45 p.m. EDT Aug. 2 when the new moon – or no moon visible in the sky at first – comes to rule.

The light moon is in force until the full moon returns at 5:27 a.m. Aug. 18, and rules until the new moon at 5:03 a.m. on Sept. 1.

And can you believe it: Here we are already talking about September!

“General Tips” for dark- and light-moon activities are below and for veggies, it’s above-ground producers in the light moon and below-ground producers when the dark phase is in. See below, too, about perfect days for making changes.

The signs

Remember: Check to see if the moon is in the light or dark phase (information above) before proceeding with planting, or other activities, indoors or out.

August begins with the killing sign Leo (the heart) in force so that is where we will begin, too. This month has far too many killing signs for me – five ruled by Leo and two by Aries (the head).

 Killing signs: No planting, transplanting, or dealing with things you want to thrive should occur on these days. Reserve them for cultivating, cleaning out fencerows — anything but planting: Leo (the heart), Aug. 1-3, 29-30 and Aries (the head), Aug. 20-21.

Flowering days: These are “bloom days” and well suited for planting flowers. If you plant on these bloom days and take care of the flowers, you will have a real show. Virgo (the bowels), rules Aug. 4-5 and 31; and Libra (the reins) is in force Aug. 6-8. There are six flowering days this month.

Fertile signs in order of appearance this month: Scorpio (the secrets), Aug. 9-10; Pisces (the feet), Aug. 18-19; Taurus (the neck), 22-23; and Cancer (the breast), Aug. 26-28. Nine days this month are ruled by the most fertile signs — Scorpio, Pisces, Taurus and Cancer.

So-so days: These aren’t particularly fertile nor destructive, just so-so. They are in this order: Sagittarius (the thighs), Aug. 11-13; Capricorn (the knees), Aug. 14-15; and Aquarius (the legs), Aug. 16-17. There are seven days in August ruled by the three so-so signs with the moon moving from the light to the dark phase on Aug. 18 at 5:27 a.m.

Gemini days: Gemini (the arms) rules Aug. 24-25. Gemini is the “bean sign.” Both of these days are with the dark moon in force and we know beans produce above the ground. But if you want to take a chance, at least half the formula is right. Just remember beans love hot weather and are not frost resistant.

General tips

Here are a few general tips for activities other than planting:

>If you have gravel to pour on a drive or roadway, do that when the light moon rules beginning Aug. 3 through Aug. 17.  The same applies for stones on a garden path: Place them when the moon is in the light phase so they don’t sink.

>If you’re setting fence posts, do that in the light of the moon so the posts don’t sink.

>If you’re putting on a new shingle roof, do that when the moon’s in the dark phase so that the shingles stick down and don’t curl up on the ends. Originally that applied to cedar shakes, and still does, but it is just as valid for modern asphalt roofs since we want them to adhere to the sheeting below.

>The number of perfect days for making changes continues to dwindle. With the moon changing phases on the 18^th at 5:27 a.m. that gives us most of that day and all of the 19^th. The moon will then be dark and the sign in Pisces (the feet). Just be underway by Aug. 20-21 when Aries (the head) comes to rule. And remember: It only takes ONE DAY to start making a change.

So, if you have changes to make like weaning babies or small animals, scheduling elective surgery – not emergency surgery since that usually can’t be scheduled - stopping smoking, starting a diet or exercise program then you have a small window that is perfect this month.

Fall gardens

Throughout this column I’ve been mentioning fall gardens. I’m sure those of you who garden regularly know that of which I speak, but it never hurts to be reminded.

Of course if you’re in an area where the seasonal change isn’t as dramatic, then adjust accordingly.

Many of the same veggies we plant in the spring when the days are getting longer, the air and soil getting warmer, do well on the other end of the season as the days get shorter and the soil and air cool.

It may seem silly to talk about it now in the heat of summer but we just have to remember when they will be growing toward maturity and the average date of first frost is now less than three months (90 days) away.

Phases and signs thru Aug. 19

If you are planting your garden by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac, here’s this week’s information. And again: be sure your planting now is with fall in mind.

The moon is in the light phase now and will remain in force until the next full moon on Aug. 18, 5:27 a.m. Until then plant only those veggies that produce above the ground – with an eye, or course, toward fall.

According to the signs, the killing sign Leo (the heart) rules through the rest of today (Wednesday).  Our monthly series of flowering signs begins Thursday with Virgo (the bowels) in force for two days followed by Libra (the reins) ruling Saturday through Monday. These bloom days will be good for some late summer flowers or perhaps early fall ones as we’re beginning to see mums here and about now.

Fertile planting for above-ground fall-producing veggies is on tap for Aug. 9-10, followed by our monthly series (Aug. 11-17) of so-so signs ­– Sagittarius/thighs through Aquarius/legs by way of Capricorn/knees. These continue to rule until the fertile sign Pisces (the feet) returns Aug. 18-19 with the moon moving to the dark phase on Aug. 18.

CHANGES: If you have changes to make like stopping smoking, starting a diet or exercise program, weaning small animals or children then the only perfect days this month will be after 6 a.m. on the 18^th and all of the 19^th. You just need to get started on one of those days before the sign returns to Aries (the head) on Aug. 20.

But then it only takes one day to get started.

WEATHER: And if you’re interested in getting some idea about what the winter way, one of the popular folk methods is to count the number of fogs in August to see how many snows there will be in the fall.

One of my favorites is to look for woolly worms. Folk tradition has it the blacker the woolly, the harsher the winter will be. So, here’s to finding lots of brown woollies!

Signs, phases thru Aug. 8

If you are planting your garden by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac, here’s the information through Aug. 8. Unless you are in the deep south, be sure your planting now is with fall in mind.

The moon is in the dark phase now and will remain in force until the new moon on Aug. 2 at 4:45 p.m. During this time plant only below-ground producers. Then beginning Aug. 3 and until the next full moon on Aug. 18, only those veggies that 

According to the signs, the fertile sign Taurus (the neck) in force Tuesday and produce above the ground – with an eye, or course, toward fall.Wednesday for the rest of today (day) with the dark moon ruling. These are perfect days for planting below-ground producing veggies.

Gemini (the arms and the bean sign) rules Thursday and Friday. Now this is a perfect time according to the signs to plant beans but they, or course, produce above the ground and the moon is in the dark phase. At least half of the formula is right!

The month ends with the very fertile sign Cancer (the breast) in force on Saturday and Sunday. On either of these days you may plant any fall crop that produces below the ground.

August opens with the killing sign Leo (the heart) ruling through Aug. 3 and the moon changing phases on Aug. 2.

Our monthly series of flowering signs begins Aug. 4 with Virgo (the bowels) in force for two days followed by Libra (the reins) ruling Aug. 6-8. These bloom days will be good for some late summer flowers or perhaps early fall ones.

Phases, signs thru July 23

If you are planting your garden by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac, here’s information for this weekend and beyond.

Remember to keep an eye toward fall now as the days are starting, regretfully, to get a little shorter. We still have plenty of hot weather left but we must be aware of when veggies will be harvested so that we don’t lose them to an early frost.

The moon is in the light phase now and will continue there until the next full moon at 6:57 p.m. on July 19. Until then be planting only those veggies that produce above the ground, then beginning July 20 and until the new moon on Aug. 2, only below-ground producers.

According to the signs, what’s remaining of today (Friday) is ruled by the so-so sign Sagittarius (thighs). The so-so series continues through July 21 with another Sagittarius day Saturday followed by Capricorn (the knees), July 17-18 and concluding with Aquarius (legs) July 19-21. The moon moves to the dark phase on the 19^th. By now you know that so-so signs are just that – so-so!

The next outstandingly fertile days will be July 22-23 with the moon in the dark phase and the sign in Pisces (the feet). These would be great days for planting below-ground-producing fall crops.

July phases and signs overview

Summer is here!

Here’s my July Overview containing all you need to know about planting your garden by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac. Remember all times are Eastern Daylight and planting is for USDA hardiness Zone 6b. Just convert accordingly to where you are.

The moon

July begins and ends with the moon in the dark phase. The full – or dark - moon rules until 7:01 a.m. EDT July 4 when the new moon – or no moon visible in the sky at first – comes to rule.

The light moon is in force until the full moon returns at 6:57 p.m. July 19, and rules until the new moon at 4:45 p.m. on Aug. 2.

 “General Tips” for dark- and light-moon activities are below and for veggies, it’s above-ground producers in the light moon and below-ground producers when the dark phase is in. See below, too, about perfect days for making changes.

The signs

Remember: Check to see if the moon is in the light or dark phase (information above) before proceeding with planting, or other activities, indoors or out.

July begins with Gemini, the bean sign in force. There are, in fact, three remaining Gemini days this month.

Gemini days: Gemini (the arms) rules July 1-2, 28-29. Gemini is the “bean sign.” Alas, all of these days are with the dark moon in force and we know beans produce above the ground. But at least half of the formula is right! Typically, bush beans love hot weather and they only take 60 or fewer days from planting to harvest. So, if you love green beans – and who doesn’t – I’d be planting some on one or all of these days.

Fertile signs in order of appearance this month: Cancer (the breast), July 3-4, 30-31; Scorpio (the secrets), July 12-14; Pisces (the feet), July 22-23; and Taurus (the neck), July 26-27. Eleven days this month are ruled by the most fertile signs — Scorpio, Pisces, Taurus and Cancer.

Killing signs: No planting, transplanting, or dealing with things you want to thrive should occur on these days. Reserve them for cultivating, cleaning out fencerows — anything but planting: Leo (the heart), July 5-6 and Aries (the head), July 24-25. There are again just four days this month ruled by the two killing signs.

So-so days: These aren’t particularly fertile nor destructive, just so-so. They are in this order: Sagittarius (the thighs), July 15-16; Capricorn (the knees), July 17-18; and Aquarius (the legs), July 19-21. There are seven days in July ruled by the three so-so signs with the moon moving from the light to the dark phase on July 19 at 6:57 p.m.

Flowering days: These are “bloom days” and well suited for planting flowers. If you plant on these bloom days and take care of the flowers, you will have a real show. Virgo (the bowels), rules July 7-9; and Libra (the reins) is in force July 10-11. There are five flowering days again this month.

General tips

Here are a few general tips for activities other than planting:

>If you have gravel to pour on a drive or roadway, do that when the light moon rules beginning July 4 through most of July 19 since the full or dark moon comes back into force late that day, beyond the time most folks would be pouring gravel. The same applies for stones on a garden path: Place them when the moon is in the light phase so they don’t sink.

>If you’re setting fence posts, do that in the light of the moon so the posts don’t sink.

>If you’re putting on a new shingle roof, do that when the moon’s in the dark phase so that the shingles stick down and don’t curl up on the ends.

>The number of perfect days for making changes continues to dwindle, down to four from seven last month. Those four days are July 20-23, Aquarius/legs through Pisces/feet.

So, if you have changes to make like weaning babies or small animals, scheduling elective surgery – not emergency surgery since that usually can’t be scheduled - stopping smoking, starting a diet or exercise program then these four days are your best opportunities this month.

Signs and Phases for planting thru July 11

                                                                                                                               

If you are planting your garden by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac, here’s this week’s information.

The moon is in the dark phase now and will continue there until the next full moon on Monday, July 4, Independence Day at 7:01 a.m. EDT. Through Sunday, be planting only those veggies that produce beneath the ground and then beginning Monday after lunch only those that produce above the ground with the light moon in force until the full moon at 6:57 p.m. on July 19.

According to the signs, what’s remaining of today (Wednesday) and all of Thursday are under the influence of Taurus (the neck) one of the four most fertile signs. On either of these days you may plant anything that produces beneath the ground.

Friday and Saturday find the sign moving the Gemini (the arms), the bean sign but with the moon in the dark phase. At least half of the formula is right if you want to plant some beans and see how they do.

Very fertile planting returns Sunday and Independence Day with the moon in dark phase Sunday and moving to the light phase early on Monday. Cancer (the breast) rules, which is good for below-ground producers on Sunday and then all above-ground producers on Monday.

All planting should cease July 5-6 when the sign moves to Leo (the heart), one of the killing signs. Reserve these days for killing, deadening, cultivating – anything but planting. These would be good days to catch up with some of those weeds that seem to plague our gardens at this time of year.

July’s series of flowering signs begins on the seventh and continues through the 11^th featuring three days ruled by Virgo (the bowels) followed by two Libra (reins) days. Flowers planted on these days should bloom and do so abundantly.

Weekend - and beyond - phases, signs

So-so signs on tap

For those of you planting your garden by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac, here’s the information for the next several days – including the weekend.

The moon is in the dark phase until 7:02 a.m. EDT June 20 when the full moon comes to rule, which is also the first day of summer. Through June 19 be planting only those veggies that produce above the ground and then beginning after 7 a.m. on June 20^th, only those that produce beneath the ground until the next new moon Independence Day, July 4.

According to the signs, our monthly series of so-so signs begins Friday and continues through July 23 – Sagittarius/thighs through Aquarius/legs. As we know by now, these signs are neither overly fertile nor destructive – just so-so.

If, however, you have changes to make like stopping smoking, starting a diet, weaning babies or small animals, scheduling elective surgery – anything that features a change – the best days this month will be most of June 20-June 25 – Capricorn/knees through Pisces/feet. During this stretch the moon will be in the dark phase and the signs going out of the body beyond anything that functions.

Fertile days: For those of you wanting to plant some above-ground producers on what’s left of today, it’s a great one with the moon in the light phase and the sign in Scorpio, one of the most fertile signs. The next very fertile days after today will be June 24-26 when Pisces is in force with the moon in the dark phase.

Phase and signs through June 30

 Summer coming June 20

For those of you planting by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac, here's this week’s information.

The moon is in the light phase now for the planting of above-ground producers until 7:02 a.m. June 20 when the full moon returns. June 20 will also be the first day of Summer and the one with the most daylight hours.

According to the signs of the zodiac, Tuesday is the last day in a series of flowering signs with Libra (the reins) ruling. This is a blooming sign and flowers planted on Tuesday should bloom and do so abundantly.  Wednesday and Thursday find the very fertile sign Scorpio (the secrets) ruling. On either of these days you may planting anything that produces above the ground and expect, with proper care, whatever it is will produce abundantly.

“Proper care,” of course, means watering, fertilizing making sure the plants are pest free and so on. It doesn’t matter what sign or phase you plant in, if you don’t take care of the plants then they will not yield.

Our monthly series of so-so signs begins Friday and continues through June 23 with the moon moving to the dark phase in the morning on June 20. In order these signs are Sagittarius/thighs through Aquarius/legs. As I say each time these signs occur, they aren’t the most fertile but they aren’t destructive either – just so-so.

After Thursday, the next outstandingly fertile days ahead are June 24-26 when Pisces (the feet) is in force and the moon is in the dark phase.

If you have changes to make like stopping smoking, starting a diet or exercise program, weaning small animals or children, scheduling elective surgery – anything that involves a change – then most of the day on June 20 through June 26 is the time this month.

The signs are moving out of the body beyond anything that functions – specifically Capricorn (knees) through Pisces (feet). Just be underway by June 27-28 when the sign goes back to Aries (the head).

And since we’re here we might as well wrap the month up with June 29-30 when Taurus (the neck) is in force and the moon is in the dark phase. Taurus is one of the most fertile signs.

Phases and signs thru June 9

For those of you planting by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac, here's the information for the weekend thru next Wednesday, and a bit beyond.

The moon is in the dark phase until 3:29 p.m. Monday, June 6, which is good for below-ground producers. At that time the new moon comes into force for above-ground producers until 5:14 p.m. June 21 when the full moon returns.

The sign ruling today (Friday) and Saturday is Gemini (the arms), the bean sign. The moon is in the dark phase, however, and we know beans produce above the ground but at least half the equation is right.

The very fertile sign Cancer (the breast) comes into force June 5 and continues to rule through June 7. Thru 3:30 on June 6 the dark moon will rule for below-ground producers then the light moon takes over for all your above-ground favorites.

All planting should cease July 8-9 when the sign moves to Leo (the heart), one of the killing signs. Participate in any gardening activity but planting when either of the killing signs is in force, Leo or Aries.

Then we'll hit a stretch of flowering signs, Virgo and Libra, that will continue through June 14.

About flowers: I'm often asked if they should be planted in the dark or light of the moon and my answer is I don't think it matters unless you're planning to eat them. Obviously, it's best when the flowering signs Virgo or Libra rule, as they will June 10-14, but any other sign will do except the killing signs.

That said, you can plant flowers all weekend if you want.

June phases and signs overview

June features many good planting days

Here’s my June Overview containing all you need to know about planting your garden by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac.

This information is written for where I live in Central Kentucky which, according to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone is in Zone 6B and times given are Eastern Daylight. Simply look at the map to convert to your planting zone and, of course, you know which time zone you are in.

If you have questions or comments, don’t hesitate to be in touch.

The moon

June begins and ends with the moon in the dark phase. The full – or dark - moon rules until 11 p.m. EDT June 4 when the new moon – or no moon visible in the sky at first – comes to rule.

The light moon is in force until the full moon returns at 7:02 a.m. June 20, which is also the first day of summer and the one with the most daylight hours. The dark moon rules until the new moon returns at 7:01 a.m. on Independence Day, July 4.

“General Tips” for dark- and light-moon activities are below and for veggies, it’s above-ground producers in the light moon and below-ground producers when the dark phase is in. See below, too, about seven great days for making changes, albeit not as many as last month but still not too shabby.

The signs

Remember: Check to see if the moon is in the light or dark phase (information above) before proceeding with planting, or other activities, indoors or out.

June begins – and ends - with the very fertile sign Taurus in force, so that’s where we will start, too.

Fertile signs in order of appearance this month: Taurus (the neck), June 1-2, 29-30; Cancer (the breast), June 5-7; Scorpio (the secrets), June 15-16; and Pisces (the feet), June 24-26. Eleven days this month are ruled by the most fertile signs — Scorpio, Pisces, Taurus and Cancer.

Extra info: Like last month, these are the absolute best signs to plant in, here’s how the moon phases match up for you to decide what to plant – and blessedly we aren’t cursed with three Ember Days as we were in May.

Dark moon: June 1-2, 24-26, 29-30 with Taurus (the neck) in force all of these dark moon days except June 24-26 ruled by Pisces (feet).  Light moon: June 5-7 (Cancer); 15-16 (Scorpio). If you’re keeping score, there are seven days ruled by very fertile signs when the dark moon is in force and five under the light moon. A lot of great days for planting so we will hope for dry ground and fair skies.

Killing signs: No planting, transplanting, or dealing with things you want to thrive should occur on these days. Reserve them for cultivating, cleaning out fencerows — anything but planting: Leo (the heart), June 8-9 and Aries (the head), June 27-28. There are just four days this month ruled by the two killing signs, and that’s the minimum down from seven in May!

So-so days: These aren’t particularly fertile nor destructive, just so-so. They are in this order: Sagittarius (the thighs), June 17-19; Capricorn (the knees), June 20-21; and Aquarius (the legs), June 22-23. There are seven days in June ruled by the three so-so signs with the moon moving from the light to the dark phase on June 20 at 7:02 a.m.

Flowering days: These are “bloom days” and well suited for planting flowers. If you plant on these bloom days and take care of the flowers, you will have a real show.

Virgo (the bowels), rules June 10-11; and Libra (the reins) is in force June 12-14. There are five flowering days again this month.

Gemini days: Gemini (the arms) rules June 3-4. Gemini is the “bean sign.” Alas, there is only one hour (11 p.m.-midnight on June 4) when the light moon is in force and we know beans produce above the ground. But at least half of the formula is right!

General tips

Here are a few general tips for activities other than planting:

>If you have gravel to pour on a drive or roadway, do that when the light moon rules beginning June 5 through June 19 since the full or dark moon comes back into force in the early morning on June 20. The same applies for stones on a garden path: Place them when the moon is in the light phase so they don’t sink.

>If you’re setting fence posts, do that in the light of the moon so the posts don’t sink.

>If you’re putting on a new shingle roof, do that when the moon’s in the dark phase so that the shingles stick down and don’t curl up on the ends.

>The number of perfect days for making changes is dwindling now to seven down from 10 last month. These seven days - most of June 20 through June 26 – are for making changes when the moon is in the dark phase and the signs are going out of the body past anything that functions, specifically Capricorn/knees through Pisces/feet.

So, if you have changes to make like weaning babies or small animals, scheduling elective surgery – not emergency surgery since that usually can’t be scheduled - stopping smoking, starting a diet or exercise program then these days are your best opportunities this month.

>If you are starting your own plants, remember: If the grown plant produces above the ground, plant the seed and transplant to peat pots when the moon is in the light phase and a fertile sign rules. The converse, of course, is true for below-ground producers: dark phase/still fertile signs.

Then when you plant in the garden follow the same formula. At that point you’ve done all you can do to ensure success – coupled with good gardening practices.

Phases, signs for weekend

Killing sign on Memorial Day

Here’s this Memorial Day Weekend’s information for those of you planting your gardens and flowers by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac. It’s hard to believe May is almost over!

The moon is in the dark phase now and will remain there through all but the last hour of June 4 when the new or light moon comes into force for two weeks beginning at 11 p.m. EDT. During this time, if you’re planting veggies, it should be those that produce beneath the ground.

Today (Thursday) and Friday find us at the end of our monthly stretch of so-so signs with Aquarius (the legs) in force and the moon, as I just mentioned, in the dark phase. These days aren’t the greatest according to the signs, but they aren’t destructive.

The best planting of this holiday weekend will be Saturday and Sunday when the sign is in Pisces (the feet), one of the four most fertile signs. On either of these days you may plant anything that produces beneath the ground.

Fittingly it would seem, this month that’s seen either killing signs or Ember Days in force for fully a third of it, concludes with the killing sign Aries (the head) ruling both Monday and Tuesday. As tempting as it will be to plant on the holiday, according to the signs I would resist the urge and wait until June 1 and 2 when the sign moves to Taurus (the neck), one of the four most fertile signs.

On Sunday I will be posting my monthly overview for June.

Weekend phases and signs

Two more Ember Days coming

Here's this weekend's information on planting by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac.

The moon is in the light phase now but that will change Saturday when the full moon comes to rule at 5:14 p.m. EDT. The full or dark moon will then rule until the next new moon on June 4 at 11 p.m.

TODAY is the best day for planting we are going to see for a while. With the moon in the light phase, the sign is in Scorpio (the secrets). Today you may plant anything that produces above the ground if your area is safe from frost now - if there is such a place north of the Tennessee border!

NO PLANTING should occur Friday or Saturday since both are Ember Days and you don't want to plant on an Ember Day no matter what the phase or sign.

A series of so-so signs begins Saturday and continues through May 27. These aren't the best signs to plant in but they aren't the worst either - just so-so. While it won't be the best time for planting it will be a great stretch for making changes like weaning small animals or children, stopping bad habits or starting good ones, scheduling elective surgery- anything that requires a change.

If you're interested, the progressing is Sagittarius/legs through Aquarius/feet: dark moon/signs going out of the body beyond anything that functions like internal organs.

Phases, signs thru May 31

Best planting day this week is Thursday

Well, neighbors, we found last weekend here in central Kentucky at least that statistics are just that – statistics. This time last week we were saying the “statistical” danger of frost was in the past and then the bottom dropped out of the temperatures – at least the “bottom” for this time of year. I hope nothing you had planted was damaged if it did indeed frost at your place. And if tender plants were damaged or killed, thankfully there’s time to replant.

Of course, if you are somewhere that wasn’t impacted at all then consider yourself blessed.

As an added “curse” to the cold snap, the ground temperature will be lowered just a little because of the cool, cloudy days and the even cooler nights with the cloud cover persisting and temperatures in the 50s. But we shall buck it up and press on, knowing better days are ahead.

On the heels of the cold snap comes this week with three Ember Days! If it’s dry enough for you to be doing any planting and you are following the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac, here’s this week’s information. Just don’t do any planting on what’s left of today (Wednesday), Friday and/or Saturday; those are the Ember Days. In the midst of this conflagration comes Thursday, an outstanding day for any above-ground producers with the moon in the light phase and the sign in Scorpio (the secrets), one of the four most fertile signs for planting.

Moon and signs

The moon is in the light phase now and will remain there until the next full moon at 5:14 p.m. EDT Saturday, May 21 when the full moon comes to rule until the next new moon on June 4 at 11 p.m.

A look at the signs reveals, as I just mentioned above, there are three Ember Days this week – today (Wednesday), Friday and Saturday when no planting should occur no matter what the phase or the sign.

As a reminder, the absolute best planting day for above-ground producers will be Thursday while the moon remains in the light phase and the sign is in Scorpio. If the ground is dry enough, this is a perfect day for any and all above-ground producers and we’ll hope the frost is in fact over.

A series of so-so days begins Saturday and continues through May 27. In order they are Sagittarius (thighs, three days); Capricorn (knees, two); and Aquarius (legs, two days). These aren’t the most fertile days but not destructive either, just so-so. And at the beginning of the period the moon moves to the dark phase at 5:14 p.m. on Saturday, which thankfully is the last Ember Day.

The fertile sign Pisces (the feet) then comes to rule May 28-29 with the moon in the dark phase. On either of these days you may plant any below-ground producers.

Wrapping up the month while we are here, the month ends with the killing sign Aries (the head) ruling May 30-31. Just like on an Ember Day, no planting should occur. And just like that five months of 2016 is in the books!

Making changes

The period from May 22-29 will be a great stretch for making changes like stopping bad habits, starting good ones, weaning small children or animals, scheduling elective surgery – anything that requires making a change. The moon will be in the dark phase then and the signs going out of the body beyond anything that functions – thighs through feet. Just be underway by May 30-31 when the moon moves back to the head.

Weekend planting

Great weekend to plant flowers!

If you're doing any planting according to the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac - and I hope you are giving it a try until you become a believer if you aren't already - here's this weekend's information.

The moon is in the light phase for above-ground producers. It will continue in force until the next full moon on May 21.

NO PLANTING today or Friday, no matter the moon's phase. Both days are ruled by Leo (the heart), one of the two killing signs.

A series of flowering signs then begins Saturday and continues through May 18 - Virgo/bowels and Libra/reins. These are bloom days and great to get out your spring flowers. Try to avoid planting veggies, however, since they tend to spend more time blooming than setting fruit.

So, for this weekend ideally it's flowers!

Phase and Signs thru May 21

A lot of no-planting days ahead - alas

If it’s dry enough for you to be doing any planting and you are following the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac, here’s this week’s information. Remember this is written for U.S. Plant Hardiness Zone 6. Just adjust accordingly to wherever you are.

Moon and signs

The moon is in the light phase now and will remain there until the next full moon at 5:14 p.m. EDT on May 21. Throughout this period plant only those veggies that produce above the ground.

A look at the signs reveals that today (Tuesday) is ruled by the very fertile sign Cancer (the breast). If your ground is dry enough – or if that’s not a factor - then any above-ground producer planted today should do very well.

But that’s about it for fertile days for a while since Wednesday is the first of three days ruled by the killing sign Leo (the heart). Leo continues to be in force through May 13, which is Friday the Thirteenth! No planting while killing signs are in force – none!

When you do get the itch – and I’ve had it – to plant when a killing sign is in force because it’s a beautiful day, your ground is dry and the weatherman says rain is coming, your plants don’t fall over and die the next day or fail to sprout from seeds. 

They just don’t produce anywhere near as well as they would if they were planted in a fertile or at least so-so sign.

But whether or not to plant is, of course, up to you.

A series of flowering days begins Saturday and continues through next Wednesday, May 18. These are all bloom days and flowers planted when either Virgo (the bowels) is in force on Saturday and Sunday or Libra (the reins) rules May 16-18, should bloom and do so abundantly. The moon is in the light phase throughout this period.

I will give you my well-worn caution about planting veggies when flowering signs are in force: If possible don’t do it because plants are inclined to produce blooms in abundance and not as much of what you planted them for – like tomatoes, peppers, beans, etc.

Ember Days

I want to press on a bit more into next week, one that is cursed by three Ember Days right here in the middle of prime planting season. They occur on May 18, 20-21. Without getting into it, just avoid planting as you would avoid it when killing signs rule.

Three Leo days this week and three Ember Days next week! Are we lucky or what?

Derby Weekend great for planting, too!

Get lots of your garden in the ground

Welcome to Kentucky Derby 142 Weekend! If you’re in Kentucky, then it ranks right up there with Christmas as a national holiday. It’s our Super Bowl and World Series and we celebrate it for two or more weeks before the Run for the Roses on Saturday.

And, of course, don’t forget to honor Mom on Sunday – right before or after you’ve planted some bush beans or half runners.

Along with being a great weekend for horse racing and all the attendant festivities, it is going to be a dandy for planting if you’re ground is dry enough. Just adjust this information to your planting and time zones.

Unless we experience a true weather anomaly, the statistical danger of frost and/or freezing weather should pass this weekend from planting zones 6 and 7 on south. According to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, most of Kentucky is in Zone 6a.

Read on and see how you can conceivably plant your entire garden if you’re in Zone 7 on south beginning Friday and continuing through May 10. It is one great stretch, particularly for above-ground producers.

The moon is in the dark phase now but that will change at 3:29 p.m. EDT Friday, May 6, when the new moon comes to rule, heralding two weeks of light moon until the next full moon at 5:14 p.m. on May 21.

Planting: Through lunch on Friday be planting only those veggies that produce beneath the ground. Then beginning after supper Friday and until the next full moon on May 21, only those that produce above the ground.

The fertile sign Taurus (the neck) rules Friday. Until lunch on Friday will be great for below-ground producers then beginning after supper Friday when the moon has moved into the light phase you may plant above-ground producers like the much-cherished tomato plant!

Good times continue Saturday and Sunday when Gemini (the arms) comes to rule. Gemini is the bean sign and beans planted when Gemini is in force and the moon is in the light phase should produce and do so abundantly. Old timers say beans planted in Gemini in the light moon will grow as long as your arms and continue to produce. Personally, I haven’t witnessed the first half of that equation but certainly have the second!

Still a doubter? Give it a try.

Great general fertile planting returns May 9-10 when the sign moves to Cancer (the breast) another of the four most fruitful signs. On either of these days you may plant anything that produces above the ground and not worry about frost and or freezing weather unless things get really weird.

Then you can take a rest from your hard work May 11-13 when Leo (the heart), the other killing sign, comes into force.

With seven days ruled by the killing signs Aries and Leo this month and an additional three that are Ember Days (May 18, 20 and 21), we have 10 no-planting days – almost a third of May’s 31 days! Two of the killing days have passed on May 3-4, but there are still eight to come. So, when there are good days like we’re going to have for the next few, take advantage of them if your ground is dry.

One great planting week ahead!

Moon  phases/zodiac signs thru May 12

If you are planting your garden by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac or planning to give it a try, here’s information through May 12.

Unless we experience a true weather anomaly, the statistical danger of frost and/or freezing weather should pass this weekend from planting zones 6 and 7 on south.

The week ahead is an outstanding one, according to the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac. Read on and see how you can conceivably plant your entire garden if you’re in Zone 7 on south in the next week – whether it’s a half acre, two pots on the porch or anywhere in between. The higher the planting zone number, the further south it is.

According to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, most of Kentucky is in Zone 6a. Adjust for your planting zone and time zone.

The moon is in the dark phase now but that will change at 3:29 p.m. EDT Friday when the new moon comes to rule, heralding two weeks of light moon until the next full moon at 5:14 p.m. on May 21.

Planting: Today (Tuesday) through Thursday and until lunch on Friday be planting only those veggies that produce beneath the ground. Then beginning after supper Friday and until the next full moon, only those that produce above the ground.

However, according to the signs, in spite of the moon being in the dark phase, no planting should occur today or Wednesday with the sign in Aries (the head), one of the two killing signs. You may participate in any gardening activity but planting.

The fertile sign Taurus (the neck) comes into force on Thursday and hangs around for Friday. Thursday and up until lunch on Friday will be great for below-ground producers then beginning after supper on Friday when the moon has moved into the light phase you may plant above-ground producers like the much-cherished tomato plant!

Good times continue Saturday and Sunday when Gemini (the arms) comes to rule. Gemini is the bean sign and beans planted when Gemini is in force and the moon is in the light phase should produce and do so abundantly. Old timers say beans planted in Gemini in the light moon will grow as long as your arms and continue to produce. Personally, I haven’t witnessed the first half of that equation but certainly have the second!

Still a doubter? Give it a try.

Great general planting continues May 9-10 when the sign moves to Cancer (the breast) another of the four most fruitful signs. On either of these days you may plant anything that produces above the ground and not worry about frost and or freezing weather unless things get really weird.

Then you can take a rest from your hard work May 11-13 when Leo (the heart), the other killing sign, comes into force.

With seven days ruled by the killing signs Aries and Leo this month and an additional three that are Ember Days (May 18, 20 and 21), we have 10 no-planting days – almost a third of May’s 31 days! So, when there are good days like we’re going to have for the next few, take advantage of them if your ground is dry.