Key takeaways
- The year 2026 has 12 full moons and 13 new moons spread throughout the year.
- The phases of the moon significantly influence gardening, with certain periods being more favorable for sowing and harvesting.
- The waxing moon promotes the growth of aerial parts, while the waning moon stimulates root development.
- Certain key dates, such as supermoons and lunar eclipses, mark particularly powerful moments in 2026.
- Adapting your activities to the lunar calendar can optimize your results in gardening, beauty and wellness.
Summary
The lunar calendar has fascinated humanity for millennia. In 2026, understanding and using the phases of the moon can transform your approach to gardening, beauty, and even your daily well-being. This comprehensive guide accompanies you month by month through the lunar cycles to optimize your activities in harmony with our natural satellite.
Whether you are a passionate gardener, a follower of lunar rituals or simply curious about the influence of the moon on our environment, this 2026 lunar calendar provides you with all the information you need to take advantage of lunar energy throughout the year.
Understanding the Lunar Calendar and its Cycles in 2026
The lunar calendar is based on a cycle that repeats approximately every 29.5 days, the period it takes the Moon to complete one revolution around the Earth. This cycle, called a lunation , consists of eight distinct phases that influence nature and our activities in different ways.
The four main phases of the moon
The new moon marks the beginning of the lunar cycle. During this phase, the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, making its illuminated side invisible from our planet. It is traditionally considered an auspicious time for new beginnings and sowing fast-growing plants.
The first quarter moon occurs about a week after the new moon. The right half of the moon becomes visible in the northern hemisphere. This waxing phase concentrates energy upwards, promoting the growth of the above-ground parts of plants.
The full moon represents the peak of the cycle, the moment when the Moon is directly opposite the Sun in relation to the Earth. Fully illuminated, it exerts its strongest gravitational pull on terrestrial fluids. Gardeners often observe a greater rise in sap during this period.
The last quarter completes the cycle with the left half visible. The energy gradually descends, a favorable period for underground work and root development.
Waxing moon and waning moon: two distinct cycles
Beyond the visible phases, there is another fundamental cycle for gardening: that of the waxing and waning moon. This phenomenon results from the inclination of the moon's orbit relative to the Earth's equator.
During the waxing moon , our satellite rises higher in the sky each day. This period of approximately thirteen days stimulates sap flow and the vitality of the above-ground parts of plants. Grafting, sowing seeds, and harvesting fruit are particularly beneficial during this phase.
Conversely, as the moon wanes, it gradually descends towards the horizon. Sap flows back down towards the roots, creating ideal conditions for transplanting, planting, pruning, and soil work. This period also promotes root development and plant strength.
The Complete Dates of the Lunar Phases 2026
The year 2026 is notable for its thirteen new moons, a phenomenon that occurs in some years due to the discrepancy between the solar calendar and the lunar cycle. Here is a complete breakdown of the lunar phases to help you plan accordingly.
New Moon Calendar 2026
| 🌑 Date | Constellation | Special feature |
|---|---|---|
| January 3 | Capricorn | First new moon of the year |
| February 1st | Aquarius | Energy of innovation |
| March 3 | Pisces | Introspective period |
| April 1st | Ram | Spring New Moon |
| May 1st | Bull | Anchoring and stability |
| May 30 | Gemini | Communication and exchanges |
| June 29 | Cancer | Summer New Moon |
| July 28 | Lion | Creativity and expression |
| August 27 | Virgin | Organization and precision |
| September 25 | Balance | Autumnal balance |
| October 25 | Scorpio | Profound transformation |
| November 24 | Sagittarius | Expansion and discovery |
| December 23 | Capricorn | New moon at the solstice |
Full Moon Calendar 2026
| 🌕 Date | Traditional name | Constellation |
|---|---|---|
| January 18 | Wolf Moon | Cancer |
| February 17 | Snow Moon | Lion |
| March 18 | Worm Moon | Virgin |
| April 17 | Pink Moon | Balance |
| May 16 | Flower Moon | Scorpio |
| June 15 | Strawberry Moon | Sagittarius |
| July 14 | Thunder Moon | Capricorn |
| August 12 | Sturgeon Moon | Aquarius |
| September 11 | Harvest Moon | Pisces |
| October 10 | Hunter's Moon | Ram |
| November 9 | Beaver Moon | Bull |
| December 9 | Cold Moon | Gemini |
Notable lunar events of 2026
Several exceptional events will mark the 2026 lunar calendar. August 12th will bring a supermoon , a phenomenon during which our satellite is at its closest point to Earth in its elliptical orbit. The Moon then appears up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a regular full moon.
The year will also see a total lunar eclipse on March 7, 2026, visible from Europe, Africa, and much of Asia. These rare astronomical events captivate both scientists and enthusiasts of lunar traditions, who attribute a particularly powerful energy to them.
Gardening by the Moon: The Practical Guide 2026
Lunar gardening is based on millennia-old observations confirmed by many experienced gardeners. Respecting lunar rhythms optimizes plant growth and leads to more abundant harvests.
The fundamental principles of gardening by the moon
During the waxing moon (from the new moon to the full moon), plant vitality gradually increases. This phase favors the sowing of plants that produce their fruit above ground: tomatoes, squash, lettuce, and flowers. The sap rises vigorously, stimulating germination and leaf development.
The waning moon (from full moon to new moon) reverses this dynamic. Energy flows back down towards the roots, making it an ideal time to sow root vegetables such as carrots, beets, potatoes, and radishes. It is also a good time to harvest crops intended for storage, as the plants contain less water.
Work schedule according to lunar days
The lunar calendar distinguishes four types of days according to the constellation the Moon passes through, each favoring a specific type of crop.
Root days (earth constellations: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) concentrate energy in the subterranean realm. Favor sowing and harvesting carrots, turnips, onions, garlic, and potatoes during these periods.
Flower days (air constellations: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) stimulate flowering. Sow and tend your ornamental flowers, cauliflowers, broccoli, and artichokes on these favorable days.
Leaf days (water constellations: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) boost foliage growth. Take care of your salads, spinach, cabbage, leeks, and leafy herbs when the Moon is transiting these constellations.
Fruit days (fire constellations: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) favor the reproductive organs. Sow, graft, and harvest tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, beans, strawberries, and fruit trees during these beneficial phases.
The best times for different garden tasks
Fruit trees are best pruned during a waning moon, ideally on fruit days. This combination minimizes sap flow and promotes rapid healing. Absolutely avoid periods of severe frost and the days immediately preceding a full moon.
Transplanting and planting are most successful during a waning moon, regardless of the visible phase. Roots establish themselves firmly, and plants better withstand the stress of transplanting. Wait three days after the full moon for optimal results.
Soil preparation , whether digging, hoeing, or mulching, is best done during a waning moon. The soil is easier to work, and amendments penetrate better to the roots. Root days further enhance these benefits.
Natural treatments against parasites become more effective during the waning moon. Plants then contain less water in their tissues, allowing them to concentrate their natural defenses more effectively. Apply your plant-based preparations and decoctions three to four days after the full moon.
Integrate the Lunar Calendar into Your Daily Life
Hair care and the lunar calendar
Many people notice a significant difference in hair growth and health depending on when they get a haircut. During a waxing moon, especially as the full moon approaches, hair grows back faster and stronger. This time is ideal if you want to lengthen your hair or add volume.
Conversely, a haircut during a waning moon slows regrowth while strengthening the hair fiber. Choose this phase to maintain a short haircut longer or to reinforce fragile hair. Days when the moon is in Leo offer an additional benefit, as this constellation is traditionally associated with hair.
Agriculture and livestock farming according to the lunar phases
Farmers have been using time-tested lunar practices for generations. Ideally, weaning animals is planned during a waning moon to minimize stress and ease the transition to solid food. This period also reduces the risk of mammary inflammation in mothers.
Grain harvests intended for long-term storage are scheduled three to four days after the full moon, during the waning moon. At this time, the grains contain less moisture, ensuring better preservation and reducing the risk of mold.
Deforestation and logging also follow lunar cycles. Wood cut during a waning moon, particularly in winter, dries faster and is more resistant to pests. This age-old practice is now confirmed by several European forestry studies.
Fishing and nature activities
Experienced anglers are familiar with the moon's influence on fish activity. The full moon and the new moon cause stronger tides, stirring up the waters and stimulating feeding. The two to three days surrounding these phases often offer the best catches.
However, some fish, like pike, become more wary during a bright moon. For these species, it's best to fish during the first and last quarter phases, times when activity remains high without the excessive light that makes them cautious.
Lunar Calendar and Spiritual Well-being
New Moon Rituals
The new moon symbolizes renewal and new beginnings. This phase of darkness naturally invites introspection and the setting of intentions. Take advantage of each new moon to clarify your goals for the coming month, whether in your professional, relational, or personal life.
A simple ritual involves writing down three specific intentions you wish to manifest. Formulate them in the present tense, as if they have already been achieved. Keep this paper in a special place and reread it at the next full moon to observe any synchronicities and progress made.
Celebrating the full moons
The full moon represents culmination, the time to reap what has been sown. Its powerful energy facilitates letting go and releasing what no longer serves us. Many experience heightened emotional intensity during this phase, reflecting the amplification of lunar energies.
Moon bathing is an ancient and revitalizing practice. Simply expose yourself to the moonlight, preferably barefoot on the earth or grass. This direct connection with lunar energy soothes the mind and recharges your energy reserves. Fifteen minutes is enough to feel the beneficial effects.
The purification of crystals and natural stones is traditionally done during the full moon. Place your minerals on a windowsill or outside so they absorb moonlight throughout the night. This gentle method is suitable for all stones, unlike sunlight, which can damage some sensitive minerals.
Meditation and lunar cycles
Adapting your meditation practice to the lunar cycle enriches the contemplative experience. During a waxing moon, focus your meditations on creative visualization and expanding consciousness. Imagine your projects coming to fruition, visualize yourself achieving your goals with clarity and confidence.
During the waning moon, focus on meditations that promote energy cleansing and forgiveness. This phase naturally encourages letting go of limiting thoughts and stagnant emotions. Conscious breathing techniques amplify this process of inner release.
Sleep and lunar influence
Scientific research confirms what our ancestors observed empirically: the full moon does indeed disrupt sleep in many people. A 2013 Swiss study demonstrated a reduction in deep sleep of approximately 30% during this phase, even in volunteers isolated from all external light.
To counteract these effects, establish a calming ritual on full moon nights. Limit screen time two hours before bedtime, opt for a relaxing herbal tea made with chamomile or passionflower, and keep your bedroom cool and very dark. Some people also find it beneficial to place an amethyst under their pillow to promote more restful sleep.