Planting by the Moon From The Old Farmer’s Almanac
January 05, 2026 | Source: ALMANAC | by Catherine Boeckmann
Planting by the Moon is an age-old practice that gardeners and farmers have used for hundreds of years. The Old Farmer’s Almanac includes the Moon phases in its planting calendars, and many old-time farmers swear it results in healthier, more productive gardens. Here’s how it works.
What Is Planting by the Moon?
From what we’re seeing, many trend watchers are confused about Planting by the Moon. No, it’s not about gardening at night—or planting in your PJs!
It’s a simple practice based on the idea that the cycles of the Moon affect plant growth. Just as the Moon’s gravitational pull causes tides to rise and fall, it also influences moisture levels in the soil.
Seeds absorb more water between the New Moon and the Full Moon because moisture is increasingly drawn to the soil’s surface during this period. This extra moisture causes seeds to swell, promoting stronger germination and better-established plants.