The Waning/Waxing Moon transits Taurus from Saturday, May 4, to Monday, May 6, between the Pisces Balsamic and the Taurus New Moon Phases

Europa (and the Bull of Heaven) by William Turner

TAURUS, Moon of contemplation and contentment
Loyal and sensual

The WANING/WAXING MOON TRANSITS TAURUS from  Saturday May 4, 6.17 am,
to Monday, May 6, 1.39 pm, with the ingress into GEMINI

Suitable energy for practical activities, making money, business, building, engineering, woodworking, sculpting, pottery, cooking, massage, healing, meditating, contemplating, being still and content, artistic, sensual. All pleasurable activities. Purchase of beautiful objects, furniture, furnishings, clothes, flowers, art works, jewellery, land. Slow, deliberate action, motivated by the desire for security and ease. Determination, use of will power. Affectionate, sensual display of feelings, supportive and loyal. Beware of laziness, self indulgence, stubbornness, intolerance, prejudice, jealousy.

•   In the garden Taurus is considered a fairly productive Sign, especially suitable for Root Crops, like potatoes and carrots, helping to strengthen the root system and to make plants sturdier. It is also a great Sign for Flower Bulbs and other ornamental plants, being sacred to Venus. Great time to be lazy in the garden, lull in a hammock and watch the grass grow.
• Healing Herbs: Fenugreek, Liquorice, Slippery Elm.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Balsamic Moon

Pisces
Balsamic Moon
May 1, 11.17 am.

The PISCES BALSAMIC MOON PHASE starts on Wednesday, May 1, 11.16 am,
and ends on Sunday, May 5, 8.45 am, with the TAURUS NEW MOON PHASE

The Moon is 45 degrees behind the Sun, only three and half days to New Moon. The Moon light is decreasing rapidly and the lunar energy is now being stored as nutrients in the seeds of future plants. It is also the calm before the storm of activities of the New Moon. Time for contemplation, self reflection and healing. The title Balsamic Moon is derived from the word ‘balsam’, unguent which helps to relieve pain and cure ills. During this time we could distil the essence of our past experience, from the last New Moon up to this point, reflect upon what we have experienced and learnt, getting psychologically ready for the cycle which is about to open. This is a spiritual phase, more suitable for meditation and relaxation than action.

• In the garden it is certainly no time for planting or sowing, but it is ideal for cultivation, soil conditioning, eradicating pests and unwanted plants and to prune in order to retard growth.

Taurus New Moon, May 5, 8.45 am.

The New Moon

The TAURUS NEW MOON PHASE PHASE starts on Sunday, May 5, 8.45 am,
and ends on Wednesday, May 8, 11.50 pm, with the CANCER CRESCENT MOON PHASE

The New Moon is the beginning of the Waxing cycle, the sacred marriage of Moon and Sun, Yin and Yang, Night and Day. For three days the Moon becomes invisible. Astrologically we say that the Moon is now conjunct the Sun (on the same degree of Longitude along the Ecliptic). Every month the New Moon occurs in a different Sign. So the Aries New Moon in March/April is always followed by the Taurus New Moon in April/May and so on. New Moons are symbols of new beginning and represent a great time to start something or make important changes in our lives. The energy is right for everything new you would like to try.

• In the garden this is traditionally a time to begin sowing and planting because the increasing Moon light will help plants to emerge and flourish. Moisture becomes more and more available as the light of the Moon intensifies, up to the Full Moon. Traditionally however no sowing or planting are recommended within twelve hours of the phase itself.

The Waning Moon transits Aries from Wednesday, May 1, to Friday, May 3, during the Pisces Balsamic Moon Phase

‘The Red Tree’ by Shaun Tan

ARIES, Moon of initiative and action
Energetic and fiery

The WANING MOON TRANSITS ARIES from Wednesday, May 1, 8.23 pm,
to Friday May 4 6.17 am, with the ingress into TAURUS

Suitable energy for taking on challenges, participating in competitions, performing daring feats, arduous exercises, physical work, to begin new ventures, or to perform action for its own sake. Purchase of sporting gear, protective gear, hats, tools, stoves, firewood, machinery, cars, bikes, leather objects. The mood is decisive, enterprising, impulsive, militant, spirited, visionary. Honest, direct expression of feelings, strong instinct, but somewhat insensitive. Beware of emotional extremes, head strong, bossy, uncompromising attitudes, lack of empathy, antagonism, aggression, selfishness.

• In the garden Aries is traditionally considered too hot, dry and barren for growing anything. Its energy is very suitable instead for cultivating, general maintenance, pruning, pest control, weeding, and harvesting. Plants sown with the Moon in Aries will soon go to seed, due to this Sign’s notorious impatience. Suitable only for early crops.
• Healing Herbs: Burdock, Gotu Kola, Red Clover.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Balsamic Moon

The PISCES BALSAMIC MOON PHASE starts on Wednesday, May 1, 11.16 am,
and ends on Sunday, May 5, 8.45 am, with the TAURUS NEW MOON PHASE

The Moon is 45 degrees behind the Sun, only three and half days to New Moon. The Moon light is decreasing rapidly and the lunar energy is now being stored as nutrients in the seeds of future plants. It is also the calm before the storm of activities of the New Moon. Time for contemplation, self reflection and healing. The title Balsamic Moon is derived from the word ‘balsam’, unguent which helps to relieve pain and cure ills. During this time we could distill the essence of our past experience, from the last New Moon up to this point, reflect upon what we have experienced and learnt, getting psychologically ready for the cycle which is about to open. This is a spiritual phase, more suitable for meditation and relaxation than action.

• In the garden it is certainly no time for planting or sowing, but it is ideal for cultivation, soil conditioning, eradicating pests and unwanted plants and to prune in order to retard growth.

The Waning Moon transits Pisces from Monday, April 29, to Wednesday, May 1, between the Aquarius Last Quarter and the Pisces Balsamic Phases

PISCES, Moon of compassion and universal sympathy
Adaptable and romantic

The WANING MOON TRANSITS PISCES from Monday, April 29, 8.11 am,
to Wednesday, May 1, 8.23 pm, with the ingress into ARIES

Suitable energy for sailing, swimming, day dreaming, escapism, falling in love, creative writing, especially of poetry, theater, performances, movies, concerts, music, crowds, solitude, remembering. Charity, water scrying, astral traveling, past life experiences, déjà vu, psychic awakening, bliss. Purchase of swimming gear, boats, surfboards, pets, alcohol, shoes. Action motivated by the need to accommodate fate, to go with the flow. Gentle poetical expression of feelings, romantic, changeable, ambivalent. Beware of escapism, untruthfulness, drug taking, victimization, passivity, impracticality, phobias, fatalism, lack of discrimination.

• In the garden Pisces is a very fertile, particularly suitable for growing water plants, like Water Chestnuts and Lotus. A great time for propagating cuttings, grafting, irrigation, pruning to encourage re-growth, but not potatoes that may sprout too soon. Romantic garden walks and picnics could do well too.
• Healing Herbs: Echinacea, Eyebright, Golden Seal and Mugwort.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Last Quarter

The AQUARIUS LAST QUARTER MOON PHASE starts Saturday, April 27, 8.18 am,
and ends on Wednesday, May 1, 11.16 am, with the PISCES BALSAMIC MOON PHASE

If the First Quarter presented us with external challenges to overcome in order to achieve the goal promised by the Full Moon, at the Last Quarter we feel that whatever bar our progress is within us and not without. We can now take responsibility for our life and circumstances. The battle needs to be fought with oneself and not other people. Both Quarters are crucial times that suggest division and strife, but while at the First Quarter we could find refuge in the illusion that the cause of all the problems was someone or something else, now we can clearly see how we contribute to whatever crisis we may be experiencing. The Moon is now 90 degrees behind the Sun, another right angle. The friction generated by the inner dialogue could be very creative if you don’t let it depress you.

• In the garden we should stop all sowing and planting, and concentrate on soil conditioning and cultivation. Suitable energy also for harvesting and getting rid of unwanted weeds and pests.

Balsamic Moon

The PISCES BALSAMIC MOON PHASE starts Wednesday, May 1, 11.16 am,
and ends on Sunday, May 5, 8.45 am, with the TAURUS NEW MOON PHASE

The Moon is 45 degrees behind the Sun, only three and half days to New Moon. The Moon light is decreasing rapidly and the lunar energy is now being stored as nutrients in the seeds of future plants. It is also the calm before the storm of activities of the New Moon. Time for contemplation, self reflection and healing. The title Balsamic Moon is derived from the word ‘balsam’, unguent which helps to relieve pain and cure ills. During this time we could distill the essence of our past experience, from the last New Moon up to this point, reflect upon what we have experienced and learnt, getting psychologically ready for the cycle which is about to open. This is a spiritual phase, more suitable for meditation and relaxation than action.

• In the garden it is certainly no time for planting or sowing, but it is ideal for cultivation, soil conditioning, eradicating pests and unwanted plants and to prune in order to retard growth.

The Waning Moon transits Aquarius from Friday, April 26, to Monday, April 29, during the Aquarius Last Quarter Moon Phase

‘Reading Girl’ by Johann Georg Meyer von Bremen (1847)

AQUARIUS, Moon of knowledge and dispassion
Friendly and eccentric

The WANING MOON TRANSITS AQUARIUS from Friday, April 26, 7.27 pm,
to Monday, April 29, 8.11 am, with the ingress into PISCES

Suitable energy to make individual choices, to work in groups, to be with friends, to become aware of social issues, to change attitudes, share ideas, do the old thing in a new way, research, understand, study, teach, technology, Astrology, the Net, the unexpected, encounters with strangers or strange, eccentric people, UFO sighting. Purchase of books, encyclopedias, computer programs, computers, technology, electrical appliances. Action motivated by the desire to participate without losing one’s own individuality. Friendly, contained display of feeling, somewhat distant. Beware of coldness, indifference, emotional isolation, cynicism, impracticality, physical inhibitions.

• In the garden Aquarius is considered too dry and barren for growing anything, but Pine Trees (?). Its energy is suitable for cultivating, general maintenance, pruning, pest control, weeding, harvesting. A ‘work day’ or other group activities in the garden will be ideal.
• Healing Herbs: Chamomile, Skullcap, Valerian.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Last Quarter

The AQUARIUS LAST QUARTER MOON PHASE starts Saturday, April 27, 8.18 am,
and ends on Wednesday, May 1, 11.16 am, with the PISCES BALSAMIC MOON PHASE

If the First Quarter presented us with external challenges to overcome in order to achieve the goal promised by the Full Moon, at the Last Quarter we feel that whatever bar our progress is within us and not without. We can now take responsibility for our life and circumstances. The battle needs to be fought with oneself and not other people. Both Quarters are crucial times that suggest division and strife, but while at the First Quarter we could find refuge in the illusion that the cause of all the problems was someone or something else, now we can clearly see how we contribute to whatever crisis we may be experiencing. The Moon is now 90 degrees behind the Sun, another right angle. The friction generated by the inner dialogue could be very creative if you don’t let it depress you.

• In the garden we should stop all sowing and planting, and concentrate on soil conditioning and cultivation. Suitable energy also for harvesting and getting rid of unwanted weeds and pests.

The Waning Moon transits Capricorn from Wednesday, April 24, to Friday, April 26, during the Sagittarius Disseminating Moon Phase

Evening Star

CAPRICORN, Moon of responsibility and ambition
Practical and efficient

The WANING MOON TRANSITS CAPRICORN from Wednesday, April 24, 8.49 am,
to Friday, April 26, 7.27 pm, with the ingress into AQUARIUS

Suitable energy for working, planning, seeking employment, building, creating the foundations of something lasting, looking after the oldies, family business, saving, budgeting, studying serious subjects, scholarly work, pursuit of excellence. Important purchases, house, real estate, business, cars, antiques, insurance policies, payment of taxes and government fees. Action motivated by practical goals and the need for structure. Cool display of feeling, but sensual, committed, protective. Beware of rigidity, bossiness, authoritarian ways, paternalism, pessimism, depression, cynicism.

• In the garden Capricorn is traditionally considered a productive Sign, especially suitable for growing Perennials, Trees and Vines. Any planting indeed that is meant to last a long time is well done in this earthy and reliable Sign. It is also a good Moon transit to plant root crops like potatoes and carrots. Fertilizing, especially slow release, recommended.
• Healing Herbs: Comfrey, Rue, Sarsaparilla, Wintergreen.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Disseminating Moon

The SAGITTARIUS DISSEMINATING MOON PHASE starts Tuesday, April 23, 9.34 am,
and ends on Saturday, April 27, 8.18 am, with the AQUARIUS LAST QUARTER MOON PHASE

The Moon is now on her return journey. This phase occurs three and half days past the Full Moon. It has been given this name because this is a time for spreading and sharing the knowledge or realization we have gathered at the Full Moon. It is the first step on the inner journey which began at the Full Moon, but it can still be an active time in the world too, with the need to reach out to others. The Moon has past her prime, but her still strong light is a reminder of her recent fullness.

• In the garden, despite the rapidly diminishing Moon light, this is a productive time for growing things and also to apply slow release fertilizer. The fact that these are the last available days for planting before the Last Quarter should work as an incentive to get going. Favourite plants to grow during this first week of the waning cycle are the Perennials, Biennials and Root Crops because the Moon energy is being stored underground in anticipation of the resting period not too far ahead.

The Waning Moon transits Sagittarius from Monday, April 22, to Wednesday, April 24, between the 29° Libra Full Moon and the Sagittarius Disseminating Phases

‘Metamorphosis’ by Vladimir Kush

SAGITTARIUS, Moon of the questing spirit and prophecy
Adventurous, independent 

The WANING MOON TRANSITS SAGITTARIUS from Monday, April 22, 1.59 am,
to Wednesday, April 24, 8.49 am, with the ingress into CAPRICORN

Suitable energy for traveling, exploring, radiating optimism, engaging in philosophical discussions, speculations, risk taking, gambling, adventures, trekking, camping out, wild life, search for God or Guru. Purchase of travel tickets, camping gear, cars, bikes, horses, dogs, raffle and lottery tickets. Action motivated by the desire to explore behind the personal sphere. Friendly display of feelings, gregarious and warm, but extremely independent and often unreliable. Beware of self inflation, preaching, boasting, being fanatical, overbearing, self righteous, impatient, uncompromising.

• In the garden Sagittarius, like all Fire Signs, is traditionally considered too hot, dry and barren for growing anything, with the exception of Fruit Trees. Its energy is suitable for cultivating, general maintenance, pruning, pest control, weeding, and harvesting. A day with your favorite pet could prove rewarding, and so will be a night under the stars.
• Healing Herbs: Dandelion, Garlic, Horsetail, Onions.

Full Moon

The 29° LIBRA FULL MOON PHASE starts on Friday, April 19, 1.12 pm,
and ends on Tuesday, April 23, 9.34 am, with the SAGITTARIUS DISSEMINATING MOON PHASE

At Full Moon the Moon has reached a distance of 180 degrees ahead of the Sun, becoming diametrically opposed to it, with planet Earth in the middle. This is symbolically harvest time, when we reap what we have sown in the waxing period. We might experience success or failure, but either way we are coming to some important realization. The cycle has now reached its half way mark and is at its most intense. Like the New Moon a fortnight earlier this is also a time for new beginnings, not in the naïve, tentative way of the New Moon, but in a more mature and conscious way.

In the garden the Full Moon is a great divide: before the exact phase the increasing light and surging energy are particularly good for Annuals and above the ground crops; after the phase Perennials, Biennials, Trees and Root crops are more suited. Traditionally no sowing or planting are recommended however twelve hours before or after the phase itself. Some authors suggest even 24 hours.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Disseminating Moon

The SAGITTARIUS DISSEMINATING MOON PHASE starts on Tuesday, April 23, 9.34 am,
and ends on Saturday, April 27, 8.18 am, with the AQUARIUS LAST QUARTER MOON PHASE

The Moon is now on her return journey. This phase occurs three and half days past the Full Moon. It has been given this name because this is a time for spreading and sharing the knowledge or realization we have gathered at the Full Moon. It is the first step on the inner journey which began at the Full Moon, but it can still be an active time in the world too, with the need to reach out to others. The Moon has past her prime, but her still strong light is a reminder of her recent fullness.

• In the garden, despite the rapidly diminishing Moon light, this is a productive time for growing things and also to apply slow release fertilizer. The fact that these are the last available days for planting before the Last Quarter should work as an incentive to get going. Favourite plants to grow during this first week of the waning cycle are the Perennials, Biennials and Root Crops because the Moon energy is being stored underground in anticipation of the resting period not too far ahead.

The Waning Moon transits Scorpio from late Friday, April 19, to early Monday, April 22, during the Libra Full Moon Phase

In the Shadow‘ by Oleg Zhivetin

SCORPIO, Moon of depth and resourcefulness
Emotionally supportive and resilient

The WANING MOON TRANSITS SCORPIO from Friday, April 19, 10.40 pm,
to Monday, April 22, 1.59 am, with the ingress into SAGITTARIUS

Suitable energy for cleansing, getting rid of the old, spring cleaning, rubbish removal, recycling, nursing, practical and emotional support, midwifery, intimacy, partnership in business, profound talks, sharing secrets, healing old wounds, cultivating  psychic powers, studying occult subjects. Purchase of insurance policies, underwear, hygiene articles, medicines, medical equipment, payment of bills, fees and taxes, collecting debts. Helping the dying, honoring the dead. Action motivated by the desire to experience, to know or to control. Reserved and deep feelings, strong attachments, intense likes and dislikes. Beware of wilfulness, emotional control, resentments, obsessive thoughts, unyielding attitudes.

• In the garden Scorpio is a very fertile Sign. It is also suitable for propagating cuttings, grafting and irrigation. It promotes sturdy roots. Corn, squashes and tomatoes seem to like particularly to be transplanted when the Moon is in Scorpio.
• Healing Herbs: Aloe, Don Quai, Ginseng.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Full Moon

The 29° LIBRA FULL MOON PHASE starts on Friday, April 19, 1.12 pm,
and ends on Tuesday, April 23, 9.34 am, with the SAGITTARIUS DISSEMINATING MOON PHASE

At Full Moon the Moon has reached a distance of 180 degrees ahead of the Sun, becoming diametrically opposed to it, with planet Earth in the middle. This is symbolically harvest time, when we reap what we have sown in the waxing period. We might experience success or failure, but either way we are coming to some important realization. The cycle has now reached its half way mark and is at its most intense. Like the New Moon a fortnight earlier this is also a time for new beginnings, not in the naïve, tentative way of the New Moon, but in a more mature and conscious way.

• In the garden the Full Moon is a great divide: before the exact phase the increasing light and surging energy are particularly good for Annuals and above the ground crops; after the phase Perennials, Biennials, Trees and Root crops are more suited. Traditionally no sowing or planting are recommended however twelve hours before or after the phase itself. Some authors suggest even 24 hours.

The Waning/Waxing Moon transits Aries from Thursday, April 4, to Saturday, April 6, between the Aquarius Balsamic and the Aries New Moo Phase

Work on Paper (38) by Christine Robinson- Click here to see more of her amazing art.

ARIES, Moon of initiative and action
Energetic and fiery

The WANING MOON TRANSITS ARIES from Thursday, April 4, 1.56 pm,
to Saturday, April 6, 11.06 pm, with the ingress into TAURUS

Suitable energy for taking on challenges, participating in competitions, performing daring feats, arduous exercises, physical work, to begin new ventures, or to perform action for its own sake. Purchase of sporting gear, protective gear, hats, tools, stoves, firewood, machinery, cars, bikes, leather objects. The mood is decisive, enterprising, impulsive, militant, spirited, visionary. Honest, direct expression of feelings, strong instinct, but somewhat insensitive. Beware of emotional extremes, head strong, bossy, uncompromising attitudes, lack of empathy, antagonism, aggression, selfishness.

• In the garden Aries is traditionally considered too hot, dry and barren for growing anything. Its energy is very suitable instead for cultivating, general maintenance, pruning, pest control, weeding, and harvesting. Plants sown with the Moon in Aries will soon go to seed, due to this Sign’s notorious impatience. Suitable only for early crops.
• Healing Herbs: Burdock, Gotu Kola, Red Clover.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Balsamic Moon

The AQUARIUS BALSAMIC MOON PHASE starts on Monday, April 1, 6.12 pm,
and ends on Friday, April 5, 7.50 pm, with the ARIES NEW MOON PHASE

The Moon is 45 degrees behind the Sun, only three and half days to New Moon. The Moon light is decreasing rapidly and the lunar energy is now being stored as nutrients in the seeds of future plants. It is also the calm before the storm of activities of the New Moon. Time for contemplation, self reflection and healing. The title Balsamic Moon is derived from the word ‘balsam’, unguent which helps to relieve pain and cure ills. During this time we could distil the essence of our past experience, from the last New Moon up to this point, reflect upon what we have experienced and learnt, getting psychologically ready for the cycle which is about to open. This is a spiritual phase, more suitable for meditation and relaxation than action.

• In the garden it is certainly no time for planting or sowing, but it is ideal for cultivation, soil conditioning, eradicating pests and unwanted plants and to prune in order to retard growth.

The New Moon

The ARIES NEW MOON PHASE starts on Friday, April 5, 7.50 pm,
and ends on Tuesday, April 9, 2.41 pm, with the GEMINI CRESCENT MOON PHASE

The New Moon is the beginning of the Waxing cycle, the sacred marriage of Moon and Sun, Yin and Yang, Night and Day. For three days the Moon becomes invisible. Astrologically we say that the Moon is now conjunct the Sun (on the same degree of Longitude along the Ecliptic). Every month the New Moon occurs in a different Sign. So the Aries New Moon in March/April is always followed by the Taurus New Moon in April/May and so on. New Moons are symbols of new beginning and represent a great time to start something or make important changes in our lives. The energy is right for everything new you would like to try.

• In the garden this is traditionally a time to begin sowing and planting because the increasing Moon light will help plants to emerge and flourish. Moisture becomes more and more available as the light of the Moon intensifies, up to the Full Moon. Traditionally however no sowing or planting are recommended within twelve hours of the phase itself.

The Waning Moon transits Pisces from Tuesday, April 2, to Thursday, April 4, during the Aquarius Balsamic Moon Phase

‘Crossing with friends’ by Christine Robinson – Click here to see more of her amazing art

PISCES, Moon of compassion and universal sympathy
Adaptable and romantic

The WANING MOON TRANSITS PISCES from Tuesday, April 2, 1.47 am,
to Thursday, April 4, 1.56 pm, with the ingress into ARIES

Suitable energy for sailing, swimming, day dreaming, escapism, falling in love, creative writing, especially of poetry, theater, performances, movies, concerts, music, crowds, solitude, remembering. Charity, water scrying, astral traveling, past life experiences, déjà vu, psychic awakening, bliss. Purchase of swimming gear, boats, surfboards, pets, alcohol, shoes. Action motivated by the need to accommodate fate, to go with the flow. Gentle poetical expression of feelings, romantic, changeable, ambivalent. Beware of escapism, untruthfulness, drug taking, victimization, passivity, impracticality, phobias, fatalism, lack of discrimination.

• In the garden Pisces is a very fertile, particularly suitable for growing water plants, like Water Chestnuts and Lotus. A great time for propagating cuttings, grafting, irrigation, pruning to encourage re-growth, but not potatoes that may sprout too soon. Romantic garden walks and picnics could do well too.
• Healing Herbs: Echinacea, Eyebright, Golden Seal and Mugwort.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Balsamic Moon

The AQUARIUS BALSAMIC MOON PHASE starts on Monday, April 1, 6.12 pm,
and ends on Friday, April 5, 7.50 pm, with the ARIES NEW MOON PHASE

The Moon is 45 degrees behind the Sun, only three and half days to New Moon. The Moon light is decreasing rapidly and the lunar energy is now being stored as nutrients in the seeds of future plants. It is also the calm before the storm of activities of the New Moon. Time for contemplation, self reflection and healing. The title Balsamic Moon is derived from the word ‘balsam’, unguent which helps to relieve pain and cure ills. During this time we could distil the essence of our past experience, from the last New Moon up to this point, reflect upon what we have experienced and learnt, getting psychologically ready for the cycle which is about to open. This is a spiritual phase, more suitable for meditation and relaxation than action.

• In the garden it is certainly no time for planting or sowing, but it is ideal for cultivation, soil conditioning, eradicating pests and unwanted plants and to prune in order to retard growth.

The Waning Moon transits Aquarius from Saturday, March 30, to early Tuesday, April 2, between the Capricorn last Quarter and the Aquarius Balsamic Moon Phases

Knowledge and Wisdom’ by Chen Wei

AQUARIUS, Moon of knowledge and dispassion
Friendly and eccentric

The WANING MOON TRANSITS AQUARIUS from Saturday, March 30, 12.45 pm,
to Tuesday, April 2, 1.47 am, with the ingress into PISCES

Suitable energy to make individual choices, to work in groups, to be with friends, to become aware of social issues, to change attitudes, share ideas, do the old thing in a new way, research, understand, study, teach, technology, Astrology, the Net, the unexpected, encounters with strangers or strange, eccentric people, UFO sighting. Purchase of books, encyclopedias, computer programs, computers, technology, electrical appliances. Action motivated by the desire to participate without losing one’s own individuality. Friendly, contained display of feeling, somewhat distant. Beware of coldness, indifference, emotional isolation, cynicism, impracticality, physical inhibitions.

• In the garden Aquarius is considered too dry and barren for growing anything, but Pine Trees (?). Its energy is suitable for cultivating, general maintenance, pruning, pest control, weeding, harvesting. A ‘work day’ or other group activities in the garden will be ideal.
• Healing Herbs: Chamomile, Skullcap, Valerian.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Last Quarter

The CAPRICORN LAST QUARTER MOON PHASE starts on Thursday, March 28, 3.09 pm,
and ends on Monday, April 1, 6.12 pm, with the AQUARIUS BALSAMIC MOON PHASE

If the First Quarter presented us with external challenges to overcome in order to achieve the goal promised by the Full Moon, at the Last Quarter we feel that whatever bar our progress is within us and not without. We can now take responsibility for our life and circumstances. The battle needs to be fought with oneself and not other people. Both Quarters are crucial times that suggest division and strife, but while at the First Quarter we could find refuge in the illusion that the cause of all the problems was someone or something else, now we can clearly see how we contribute to whatever crisis we may be experiencing. The Moon is now 90 degrees behind the Sun, another right angle. The friction generated by the inner dialogue could be very creative if you don’t let it depress you.

• In the garden we should stop all sowing and planting, and concentrate on soil conditioning and cultivation. Suitable energy also for harvesting and getting rid of unwanted weeds and pests.

Balsamic Moon

The AQUARIUS BALSAMIC MOON PHASE starts on Monday, April 1, 6.12 pm,
and ends on Friday, April 5, 7.50 pm, with the ARIES NEW MOON PHASE

The Moon is 45 degrees behind the Sun, only three and half days to New Moon. The Moon light is decreasing rapidly and the lunar energy is now being stored as nutrients in the seeds of future plants. It is also the calm before the storm of activities of the New Moon. Time for contemplation, self reflection and healing. The title Balsamic Moon is derived from the word ‘balsam’, unguent which helps to relieve pain and cure ills. During this time we could distill the essence of our past experience, from the last New Moon up to this point, reflect upon what we have experienced and learnt, getting psychologically ready for the cycle which is about to open. This is a spiritual phase, more suitable for meditation and relaxation than action.

• In the garden it is certainly no time for planting or sowing, but it is ideal for cultivation, soil conditioning, eradicating pests and unwanted plants and to prune in order to retard growth.

The Waning Moon transits Capricorn from Thursday, March 28, to Saturday, March 30, during the Capricorn Last Quarter Phase

‘Age of Wisdom’ by Alphonse Mucha

CAPRICORN, Moon of responsibility and ambition
Practical and efficient

The WANING MOON TRANSITS CAPRICORN from Thursday, March 28, 1.07 am,
to Saturday, March 30, 12.45 pm, with the ingress into AQUARIUS

Suitable energy for working, planning, seeking employment, building, creating the foundations of something lasting, looking after the oldies, family business, saving, budgeting, studying serious subjects, scholarly work, pursuit of excellence. Important purchases, house, real estate, business, cars, antiques, insurance policies, payment of taxes and government fees. Action motivated by practical goals and the need for structure. Cool display of feeling, but sensual, committed, protective. Beware of rigidity, bossiness, authoritarian ways, paternalism, pessimism, depression, cynicism.

• In the garden Capricorn is traditionally considered a productive Sign, especially suitable for growing Perennials, Trees and Vines. Any planting indeed that is meant to last a long time is well done in this earthy and reliable Sign. It is also a good Moon transit to plant root crops like potatoes and carrots. Fertilizing, especially slow release, recommended.
• Healing Herbs: Comfrey, Rue, Sarsaparilla, Wintergreen.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Last Quarter

The CAPRICORN LAST QUARTER MOON PHASE starts on Thursday, March 28, 3.09 pm,
and ends on Monday, April 1, 6.12 pm, with the AQUARIUS BALSAMIC MOON PHASE

If the First Quarter presented us with external challenges to overcome in order to achieve the goal promised by the Full Moon, at the Last Quarter we feel that whatever bar our progress is within us and not without. We can now take responsibility for our life and circumstances. The battle needs to be fought with oneself and not other people. Both Quarters are crucial times that suggest division and strife, but while at the First Quarter we could find refuge in the illusion that the cause of all the problems was someone or something else, now we can clearly see how we contribute to whatever crisis we may be experiencing. The Moon is now 90 degrees behind the Sun, another right angle. The friction generated by the inner dialogue could be very creative if you don’t let it depress you.

• In the garden we should stop all sowing and planting, and concentrate on soil conditioning and cultivation. Suitable energy also for harvesting and getting rid of unwanted weeds and pests.

The Waning Moon transits Sagittarius from Monday, March 25, to Wednesday, March 27, during the Scorpio Disseminating Moon Phase

‘Soria_Moria’ by Theodor Kittelsen illustration for a Norwegian fairy tale about a quest for redemption.

SAGITTARIUS, Moon of the questing spirit and prophecy
Adventurous, independent

The WANING MOON TRANSITS SAGITTARIUS from Monday, March 25, 5.05 pm,
to Thursday, March 28, 1.07 am, with the ingress into CAPRICORN

Suitable energy for traveling, exploring, radiating optimism, engaging in philosophical discussions, speculations, risk taking, gambling, adventures, trekking, camping out, wild life, search for God or Guru. Purchase of travel tickets, camping gear, cars, bikes, horses, dogs, raffle and lottery tickets. Action motivated by the desire to explore behind the personal sphere. Friendly display of feelings, gregarious and warm, but extremely independent and often unreliable. Beware of self inflation, preaching, boasting, being fanatical, overbearing, self righteous, impatient, uncompromising.

• In the garden Sagittarius, like all Fire Signs, is traditionally considered too hot, dry and barren for growing anything, with the exception of Fruit Trees. Its energy is suitable for cultivating, general maintenance, pruning, pest control, weeding, and harvesting. A day with your favourite pet could prove rewarding, and so will be a night under the stars.
• Healing Herbs: Dandelion, Garlic, Horsetail, Onions.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Disseminating Moon

The SCORPIO DISSEMINATING MOON PHASE starts on Sunday, March 24, 8.42 pm,
and ends on Thursday, March 28, 3.09 pm, with the CAPRICORN LAST QUARTER MOON PHASE

The Moon is now on her return journey. This phase occurs three and half days past the Full Moon. It has been given this name because this is a time for spreading and sharing the knowledge or realization we have gathered at the Full Moon. It is the first step on the inner journey which began at the Full Moon, but it can still be an active time in the world too, with the need to reach out to others. The Moon has past her prime, but her still strong light is a reminder of her recent fullness.

• In the garden, despite the rapidly diminishing Moon light, this is a productive time for growing things and also to apply slow release fertilizer. The fact that these are the last available days for planting before the Last Quarter should work as an incentive to get going. Favourite plants to grow during this first week of the waning cycle are the Perennials, Biennials and Root Crops because the Moon energy is being stored underground in anticipation of the resting period not too far ahead.

The Waning Moon transits Scorpio from Saturday, March 23, to Monday, March 25, between the Libra Full Moon and the Scorpio Disseminating Phases

‘Woman with a spray of flowers’ Safavid Dynasty – Persia – circa 1575 – detail

SCORPIO, Moon of depth and resourcefulness
Emotionally supportive and resilient

The WANING MOON TRANSITS SCORPIO from Saturday, March 23, 1.16 pm,
to Monday, March 25, 5.05 pm, with the ingress into SAGITTARIUS

Suitable energy for cleansing, getting rid of the old, spring cleaning, rubbish removal, recycling, nursing, practical and emotional support, midwifery, intimacy, partnership in business, profound talks, sharing secrets, healing old wounds, cultivating psychic powers, studying occult subjects. Purchase of insurance policies, underwear, hygiene articles, medicines, medical equipment, payment of bills, fees and taxes, collecting debts. Helping the dying, honoring the dead. Action motivated by the desire to experience, to know or to control. Reserved and deep feelings, strong attachments, intense likes and dislikes. Beware of wilfulness, emotional control, resentments, obsessive thoughts, unyielding attitudes.

• In the garden Scorpio is a very fertile Sign. It is also suitable for propagating cuttings, grafting and irrigation. It promotes sturdy roots. Corn, squashes and tomatoes seem to like particularly to be transplanted when the Moon is in Scorpio.
• Healing Herbs: Aloe, Don Quai, Ginseng.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Full Moon

Full to Disseminating Moon

The LIBRA FULL MOON PHASE starts on Thursday, March 21, 12.42 pm,
and ends on Sunday, March 24, 8.42 pm, with the SCORPIO DISSEMINATING MOON PHASE

At Full Moon the Moon has reached a distance of 180 degrees ahead of the Sun, becoming diametrically opposed to it, with planet Earth in the middle. This is symbolically harvest time, when we reap what we have sown in the waxing period. We might experience success or failure, but either way we are coming to some important realization. The cycle has now reached its half way mark and is at its most intense. Like the New Moon a fortnight earlier this is also a time for new beginnings, not in the naïve, tentative way of the New Moon, but in a more mature and conscious way.

• In the garden the Full Moon is a great divide: before the exact phase the increasing light and surging energy are particularly good for Annuals and above the ground crops; after the phase Perennials, Biennials, Trees and Root crops are more suited. Traditionally no sowing or planting are recommended however twelve hours before or after the phase itself. Some authors suggest even 24 hours.

Disseminating Moon

The SCORPIO DISSEMINATING MOON PHASE starts on Sunday, March 24, 8.42 pm,
and ends on Thursday, March 28, 3.09 pm, with the CAPRICORN LAST QUARTER MOON PHASE

The Moon is now on her return journey. This phase occurs three and half days past the Full Moon. It has been given this name because this is a time for spreading and sharing the knowledge or realization we have gathered at the Full Moon. It is the first step on the inner journey which began at the Full Moon, but it can still be an active time in the world too, with the need to reach out to others. The Moon has past her prime, but her still strong light is a reminder of her recent fullness.

• In the garden, despite the rapidly diminishing Moon light, this is a productive time for growing things and also to apply slow release fertilizer. The fact that these are the last available days for planting before the Last Quarter should work as an incentive to get going. Favourite plants to grow during this first week of the waning cycle are the Perennials, Biennials and Root Crops because the Moon energy is being stored underground in anticipation of the resting period not too far ahead.

The Waning/Waxing Moon transits Pisces from Tuesday, March 5, to Friday, March 8, between the Capricorn Balsamic and the Pisces New Moon Phases

Ophelia by Annie French

PISCES, Moon of compassion and universal sympathy
Adaptable and romantic

The WANING/WAXING MOON TRANSITS PISCES from Tuesday, March 5, 7.10 pm, to Friday, March 8, 7.27 am, with the ingress into ARIES

Suitable energy for sailing, swimming, day dreaming, escapism, falling in love, creative writing, especially of poetry, theater, performances, movies, concerts, music, crowds, solitude, remembering. Charity, water scrying, astral traveling, past life experiences, déjà vu, psychic awakening, bliss. Purchase of swimming gear, boats, surfboards, pets, alcohol, shoes. Action motivated by the need to accommodate fate, to go with the flow. Gentle poetical expression of feelings, romantic, changeable, ambivalent. Beware of escapism, untruthfulness, drug taking, victimization, passivity, impracticality, phobias, fatalism, lack of discrimination.

• In the garden Pisces is a very fertile, particularly suitable for growing water plants, like Water Chestnuts and Lotus. A great time for propagating cuttings, grafting, irrigation, pruning to encourage re-growth, but not potatoes that may sprout too soon. Romantic garden walks and picnics could do well too.
• Healing Herbs: Echinacea, Eyebright, Golden Seal and Mugwort.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

The New Moon

The PISCES NEW MOON PHASE starts on Thursday, March 7, 3.03 am.
and ends on Monday, March 11, 3.23 am, with the TAURUS CRESCENT MOON PHASE

The New Moon is the beginning of the Waxing cycle, the sacred marriage of Moon and Sun, Yin and Yang, Night and Day. For three days the Moon becomes invisible. Astrologically we say that the Moon is now conjunct the Sun (on the same degree of Longitude along the Ecliptic). Every month the New Moon occurs in a different Sign. So the Aries New Moon in March/April is always followed by the Taurus New Moon in April/May and so on. New Moons are symbols of new beginning and represent a great time to start something or make important changes in our lives. The energy is right for everything new you would like to try.

• In the garden this is traditionally a time to begin sowing and planting because the increasing Moon light will help plants to emerge and flourish. Moisture becomes more and more available as the light of the Moon intensifies, up to the Full Moon. Traditionally however no sowing or planting are recommended within twelve hours of the phase itself.

The Waning Moon transits Capricorn from Thursday, February 28, to March 2, 2019, between the Sagittarius Last Quarter Moon and the Capricorn Balsamic Moon Phases

‘The throne of Saturn’ by Elihu Vedder (1836-1923), for the Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám – Saturn was the King of all Gods during the Golden Age of Greek mythology

*****

CAPRICORN, Moon of responsibility and ambition
Practical and efficient

The WANING MOON TRANSITS CAPRICORN from Thursday, February 28, 5.48 pm,
to Sunday, March 3, 6.06 am, with the ingress into AQUARIUS

Suitable energy for working, planning, seeking employment, building, creating the foundations of something lasting, looking after the oldies, family business, saving, budgeting, studying serious subjects, scholarly work, pursuit of excellence. Important purchases, house, real estate, business, cars, antiques, insurance policies, payment of taxes and government fees. Action motivated by practical goals and the need for structure. Cool display of feeling, but sensual, committed, protective. Beware of rigidity, bossiness, authoritarian ways, paternalism, pessimism, depression, cynicism.

• In the garden Capricorn is traditionally considered a productive Sign, especially suitable for growing Perennials, Trees and Vines. Any planting indeed that is meant to last a long time is well done in this earthy and reliable Sign. It is also a good Moon transit to plant root crops like potatoes and carrots. Fertilizing, especially slow release, recommended.
• Healing Herbs: Comfrey, Rue, Sarsaparilla, Wintergreen.

A note: the garden activities associated with the Moon Sign depend also on the cycle the Moon is in. The Moon transiting through a fertile or productive Sign will no be so favorable if the Phase is not a productive one, and vice-versa. For best results the Sign and Phase of the Moon have to be considered together.

Last Quarter

The SAGITTARIUS LAST QUARTER MOON PHASE starts on Tuesday, February 26, 10.27 pm,
and ends on Saturday, March 2, with the CAPRICORN BALSAMIC MOON PHASE

If the First Quarter presented us with external challenges to overcome in order to achieve the goal promised by the Full Moon, at the Last Quarter we feel that whatever bar our progress is within us and not without. We can now take responsibility for our life and circumstances. The battle needs to be fought with oneself and not other people. Both Quarters are crucial times that suggest division and strife, but while at the First Quarter we could find refuge in the illusion that the cause of all the problems was someone or something else, now we can clearly see how we contribute to whatever crisis we may be experiencing. The Moon is now 90 degrees behind the Sun, another right angle. The friction generated by the inner dialogue could be very creative if you don’t let it depress you.

• In the garden we should stop all sowing and planting, and concentrate on soil conditioning and cultivation. Suitable energy also for harvesting and getting rid of unwanted weeds and pests.

Balsamic Moon

The Moon is 45 degrees behind the Sun, only three and half days to New Moon. The Moon light is decreasing rapidly and the lunar energy is now being stored as nutrients in the seeds of future plants. It is also the calm before the storm of activities of the New Moon. Time for contemplation, self reflection and healing. The title Balsamic Moon is derived from the word ‘balsam’, unguent which helps to relieve pain and cure ills. During this time we could distil the essence of our past experience, from the last New Moon up to this point, reflect upon what we have experienced and learnt, getting psychologically ready for the cycle which is about to open. This is a spiritual phase, more suitable for meditation and relaxation than action.

• In the garden it is certainly no time for planting or sowing, but it is ideal for cultivation, soil conditioning, eradicating pests and unwanted plants and to prune in order to retard growth.