Although it is a slim volume, In Tune with the Moon 2009 is a glorious glossy book, brimming with practical information, illustrations, tables and advice. French author Michel Gros shares his facts and figures gathered over 30 years and presents it all in full color. Billed as a lunar calendar and planner for biodynamic gardening, it has chapter headings which prove it to be much more than that:
Understanding the Moon
The book opens with a clear explanation of the waxing and waning of the moon and the ascending and descending moon. This is a really important basis for biodynamic gardening. Once the pattern of the moon's cycles is understood, everything begins to make sense. As Gros says when discussing lunar tides: “You might think that the influence of the tides is restricted to the movement of water but in fact tidal influence affects the soil and most plants.”
Following the moon's passage through the different constellations of the zodiac, Gros explains their individual influences. The constellations are identified with the 4 elements (earth, air, fire and water) which then relate to parts of the plant. For example, the earth signs of Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn are when bark and roots develop well, making it "an ideal time to concentrate on carrots, potatoes, asparagus, celery, parsnips and other root vegetables."
Working with the Moon
This chapter advises the most favourable times according to lunar cycles, for just about everything, from making jams and home-brew to planting and composting. In the composting section there is a detailed table showing the best times for making and turning compost throughout the year.
There are informative snippets on
- bee-keeping
- growing grapes for winemaking
- making herbal insecticides and fungicides.
The pages on companion planting show what does grow well together following biodynamic gardening methods, and also what does not flourish side by side. For example, the previously mentioned asparagus grows well with leeks but not with garlic. Surprisingly, garlic does enjoy the company of strawberries.
Living with the Moon
A compilation of the lunar influences on the human body, this chapter makes fascinating reading. Learn why there are optimal times in the cycles of the moon for fasting, detox diets and even skin treatments: “Dry and combination skin treatments will be more effective when applied during a waxing moon.”
For those interested in a healthier diet there is a section which includes tips on what to eat. Practical information reminds people to : “Eat fruit and vegetables in season and grown locally (their energy is best adapted to our bodies.)”
Biodynamic Gardening Calender
The easy to follow advice given on the day-by-day calender reminds the gardener of the times to sow, plant and harvest within the cycles of the moon.
Following this is a planning calender with space for writing personal notes which can then be incorporated into the next year’s biodynamic gardening plan.
Gift for Gardeners
A delight to dip into, this book would make a wonderful gift for anyone with an interest in organic or biodynamic gardening as well as people interested in the moon and lunar cycles. In Tune with the Moon 2009 could quickly become an essential companion for those would-be green gardeners newly inspired to grow their own herbs and vegetables.
Published by Findhorn Press at £8.99 112 pages.
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