Signs, phases thru April 20

Here’s this week’s information about planting by the phases of the moon and signs of the zodiac

 And as I like to remind you, since I can’t write specifically for every area of the country, you need to adapt information here based on your time zone, planting zone and date of last frost if you are in “frosty areas.” Thus this is written from a central Kentucky angle since that is where I live.

Given the week we’ve had in these parts when nighttime temperatures dipped into the 20s, we are once again reminded that winter isn’t over and putting out warm-weather loving veggies too early can result in nothing but disaster. I really like to wait until after Mother’s Day for the all clear, and that is May 8 this year; not long now.

Now, phases and signs and remember this information applies to all planting whether in a garden, greenhouse or flowerpot.

The moon

The moon is in the light phase now for above ground-producers. It remains in force until 1:24 a.m. on April 22. This is also a perfect time for pouring gravel of setting stones. I’m often asked about the best time for rock pouring, and here we have it: now through April 21.

The signs

According to the signs of the zodiac, fertile days are on tap for Tuesday and Wednesday, April 12 and 13 when the sign moves to Cancer (the breast), one of the four most fertile signs with the moon in the light phase for above-ground producers that like cool weather and ground in climes north of lower Tennessee where it should be warming nicely.

All planting should cease Thursday and Friday, April 14 and 15 when the sign settles in Leo (the heart), one of the killing signs. Reserve these days for any gardening work but planting. If I did nothing else according to the signs, I would not plant when the sign is in either of the killing signs, Leo or Aries (the head).

Then we have a five-day stretch ruled by the flowering signs with Virgo (the bowels) ruling April 16-18 followed by Libra (the reins) on April 19-20. The moon will be in the light phase for the entire time. It you can protect them in case of a late cold snap, this will be an outstanding time for putting out your spring flowers.

If you have questions or comments, let me hear from you.