Things You'll Need
Moon calendar
Grass seed
Rake
Hose or lawn sprinkler
Planting according to moon phases is an ancient practice that some gardeners continue to use today. Planting by the moon assumes that moon phases — which cause ocean tides — affect water in the soil and in plants as well. Choosing a planting time during a moon phase with optimal water available for your task, according to this theory, means that the water availability meets your gardening needs. Planting grass should occur during the waxing moon, when the new moon grows into the full moon.
Step 1
Purchase grass seed. The best time to plant grass seed is in the fall. Always purchase seed with the current year on it to ensure the best growth, and make sure you choose seed that fits the site you're planting. For example, bluegrass grows best in sunny areas, while fescue grows best in the shade.
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Step 2
Identify the date of the next new moon. You will have approximately two weeks to plant grass seed after this point.
Step 3
Plant grass seed between the new moon — when the moon goes completely dark — and the full moon. During this time, according to moon-cycle planting theory, moisture becomes most available to new seeds.
Step 4
Spread the seed according to the instructions on the package. If you are reseeding an existing lawn, use a rake to rake in the seed, ensuring contact with the soil.
Step 5
Lightly sprinkle the new seed with compost to ensure it has adequate available nutrients. Thoroughly water the newly seeded area.
Tip
If you are laying sod rather than planting fresh seed, the Old Farmer's Almanac also recommends doing so during the waxing moon.
Other lawn care activities work best during the waning moon, or after the full moon, when the full moon begins to diminish in size. During this time, when water is less available to your lawn, you should kill weeds or mow your lawn.
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