Why Plant By The Moon Phases?

People plant by the phases of the moon, a practice known as lunar or moon gardening, because it is believed the moon's gravitational pull affects moisture levels in the soil and within the plant itself. This ancient practice suggests that planting during specific phases can optimise growth, with the belief that a waxing moon (from new moon to full moon) is best for above-ground crops, while a waning moon (from full moon to new moon) is better for root vegetables. While scientific evidence is limited, many traditional and modern gardeners swear by its effectiveness.

Planting by the Moon – December 2025

(Full Moon to ¼ Moon) 5 – 11 December:  

Gravitational pull decreases and moonlight decreases, so leaf growth reduces and root growth increases. Plant root crops now.

(Last ¼ to New Moon) 12 – 19 Dec: 

The waning moon is good for balanced growth. No sowing or planting during this phase. Harvest vegetables, weeding, digging, pruning and cultivating. Apply mulch.

(New Moon to ¼ Moon) 20 – 27 Dec:

Influences balanced growth; a lower gravitational pull decreases, which stimulates root growth—the best time to sow or transplant leafy vegetables.

(First ¼ to Full Moon) 28 – 5 Jan:

Increased light from the waxing moon benefits leaf growth, and root growth slows down. Best time to sow/transplant fruiting annuals.

What to plant in December - January:

Asian vegetables; Beans; Capsicum; Chilli; Cucumber; Eggplant; Lettuce; Luffa; Marrow; Melon;

Mustard Greens; Pumpkins; Radish; Rosellas; Shallots; Squash; Sweet Corn; Sweet Potatoes;

Tomatoes; Zucchini

** Plant these in seedling trays first: Beans; Capsicum; Cucumber; Eggplant; Lettuce; Marrow;

Mustard Greens; Rosella; Shallots; Squash; Tomatoes; Zucchini