The influence of each lunar phase in the cultivation of vegetables is as follows:
Fourth crescent: The availability of lunar light is increasing and the plants have a balanced growth, in which the growth of foliage and root is favored. In this period within the soil there are large movements of water that affect their availability for the roots. As there is greater availability of water in the soil, the seeds will have the opportunity to absorb water more quickly and germinate in the foreseen time, as long as the climatic and soil conditions are favorable. That is the reason why the seeds of fast germination (vegetables) that are planted two or three days before or at the beginning of this phase germinate faster and more homogeneously than those that are sown in other periods.
Full moon: In this phase the moonlight continues to increase and there is little root growth, but a lot of foliage growth. The plants have a greater amount and internal movement of water and sap. In the case of propagation through stakes and cuttings (pieces of stem) that are used for vegetative propagation, it is not convenient to cut them in this phase, since there is a lot of water inside them, the hormones that promote rooting (auxins) will be very diluted and will not help to stimulate the emission of roots. In addition, the water that is inside the stakes will tend to come out, causing rapid dehydration. When the transplant is made in this period the plants tend to grow fast and produce a lot of foliage.
Fourth waning: In this phase the intensity of the lunar rays begin to diminish. This is a good period for the transplant and has seen a rapid and vigorous growth of roots. When there is little light, the growth of the foliage is slow, which is why the plant can use a good part of its energy in the growth of its root system. With its vigorous and well-formed root, the plant can obtain sufficient nutrients and water for a successful growth.
New Moon: In this phase the intensity of the lunar rays continue to decrease to lower levels. In this phase, a slow growth of the root system and foliage has been observed. Apparently this is a period of little or very little growth, like at rest, where plants can easily adapt to the environment without suffering any damage. Many farmers prefer to perform their agricultural work in this period of rest, because they believe that plants can adapt more easily to changes and prepare for the next period (New Moon to growing quarter) in which balanced growth of plants is expected . The tasks carried out are hilling, weeding, pruning, desahyjes, tutorados, fertilizers, etc.
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