Friday, October 19, 2018

HAND STORIES: PLANTING BY MOONLIGHT

Thus, though the sky is changeful, men can predict
The seasons as they change and what they bring:
The time for harvest, the time for planting seeds...

                                    Virgil, The Georgics
                                    translated by David Ferry



Synodic planting depends on the observation of the waxing and waning of the moon to make decisions.
Sowing seeds at the time of the new moon is preferred for leafy plants and flowers.  Planting root crops when the moon is going toward darkness.
But this story is about Wanda Miller who during her lifetime worked constantly during the planting/growing season.  Since she was busy all day selling plants and produce her only option for planting was to do it after hours and into the night.  By moonlight.





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