In the same way that we recognize the influence of the moon on the tides, the influence of the lunar cycles on the earth is clear. The vitality of the plants increases with the crescent moon, and it drops with the new moon. The activity of the aerial part of the plant increases with the waxing moon, while with the waning moon the activity of the plant focuses on the roots. The biodynamic agriculture is guided by the position of the moon in front of each of the twelve constellations, before and at the time of working on the vineyards or in the cellar.
As we near the full moon, the plants vitality increases. The vine has more strength to fight against plagues and diseases, and the obtained grapes give more vitality to the wines. During the waxing moon the compost warms up easily and the preparations usually have a better quality.
We know that the moon is in the waxing phase because the illuminated part draws a semicircle in the shape of a D. The waxing moon ends with the full moon.
When the light of the moon diminishes, it also decreases the vitality of the plants, and their colors, fragrances and taste are more intense, more noticeable. The dietetic and medical properties of the grapes are more powerful, but it is more difficult to preserve the freshness of the freshly harvested grape. The waning moon period is good for bottling. And in the vineyard, the natural treatments to control plagues are more efficient.
We know that the moon is in the waning phase because the illuminated part draws a semicircle in the shape of a C. The waning moon ends with the new moon.
When the moon is in its ascending phase, the activity of the vine is focused on the aerial part, the part we can see above the soil. It is the proper time to implant or to harvest, but it is not advisable to prune during this phase.
We know that the moon is in the ascending phase when observing it for two consecutive days, as it goes over the same vertical point, we can affirm that the moon is higher the second day than the first.
When the moon is in its descending phase, the activity of the plant focuses on the roots. It is a proper time to prune the vines, to cultivate or spreading compost.
We know that the moon is in the descending phase when observing it for two consecutive days, as it goes over the same vertical point, we can affirm that the moon is lower the second day than the first.