It’s that wonderful time of year when we can finally get outside, rake out our gardens and think about what we are going to plant. Every year it’s so joyful to be able to spot a sale and come home laden with colorful 6-packs of flowers!

I’m not one of those folks who insists on buying only from nurseries — I’m really happy when my local grocery store has plants outside on sale for 3 for $10!  I work them into my budget, getting only a few at a time, which also gives me not too much work ahead as far as planting goes.  Since I get them before I get my groceries, if I have to forego the toilet paper or toothpaste, oh well (JUST KIDDING!!).  But you get my point, right?  With just a little bit of adjustment, you can afford to fill your yard with flowers, a bit at a time.

I’ll explain more as we go along, but for now, I’ll just tell you a bit.  Years ago, before the advent of technology, everyone used to plant (and do most everything) according to the signs of the moon.  My mother, who at the age of 86 still has beautiful, thick, blonde (ahem!) hair, has always said that her father (my Nonno), would never allow my grandmother to cut her hair unless it was a new moon – in his thick Italian accent he would say, “maakes her haier grrow niice and theeck”!  He had beautiful hair until the day he died at 88 and my mom’s hair, as I said, is gorgeous at 86.  (Why she never has gone grey, I can’t imagine … 😉)

Back to planting!  Did you see this post earlier? If you waited to plant when the old timers would have planted, according to the best time when the ground is ready and just itching to be planted, this past May 9th was perfect to put in your above-ground annuals.  The moon was in Scorpio, which is a water-sign.  Whether it looks it or not, there is more water near the surface of the soil during the earth and water signs.  The soil is more fertile, more able to nourish seeds and plants.  This past weekend the moon was in Pisces (sign of the fish), which is another “earth sign” and fabulous for planting.  The moon is now in Aires, which is a “fire sign” and even though it may be raining outside, the soil is not as able to nourish and germinate as well as it is when it is in an “earth” and “productive” sign.  This coming Wednesday, May 24, the moon will be in Taurus (sign of the Bull) which is another GREAT planting sign.  Since the moon is in its final day of waning, it is “pulling” on the other side of the earth, which indicates that it is best for planting for root growth.  Plant potatoes, carrots, beets, onions, etc. on Wednesday and Thursday.  Friday the moon goes into Gemini (the twins) which is considered an “air” sign; barren and dry.  Best to wait to plant until Sunday or Monday when the moon will be in Cancer (the crab) and a waxing crescent.  Cancer is very fruitful and moist!  Have fun!!