(Leggi questo articolo in Italiano)
Map of the Gibbous Moon
Lunar map with the names of some of the main craters (errors and omissions excepted Author’s note).
The Moon is life
The Moon, according to peasant tradition, influences the growth of plants and the movement of sap within them.
The waxing moon facilitates the upward movement of sap, thus promoting plant growth. During this phase, it’s recommended to plant fruit-bearing vegetables, such as tomatoes and zucchini.
A waning moon, on the other hand, favors the flow of sap toward the roots. Therefore, during this phase, it’s advisable to plant root vegetables such as carrots, onions, and potatoes.
Mr. Lino, a farmer now in his eighties, pointed out, however, that these traditions, like others, have now been lost.
The Moon, with its gravitational force, also has a significant influence on the tides.
This rise or fall in sea and ocean levels favors the life of marine ecosystems along the coasts.
Author’s Notes
Map of the Moon in its waning gibbous phase, with the names of the major craters. Photo taken on July 31, 2026, two days after the full Moon.
Photo taken with OM SYSTEM OM-1 MARK II; OM System M.Zuiko ED 150–600mm f/5.0-6.3 IS Sync lens (35mm equivalent: 300–1200mm); @ 600mm f/10 ( efov 1,200.0mm f/10); ISO 500; exposure compensation: -1.3 EV; tripod; Time: 1:04 AM on 07/31/2026 in Vicenza, Italy.
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What is the meaning of the three dots at the beginning of the post title?
…and sister Moon
With the three dots at the beginning of the title I wanted to express a sense of continuity with my previous post on the canticle Brother Sun of Saint Francis of Assisi, also known as the Canticle of the Creatures or the Canticle of Brother Sun and Sister Moon.
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I dedicate this post to a young Australian family on vacation, whom I met today, August 19, 2026, in Monte Pian, near the little church of San Valentino in Malo (Vicenza). Preserving our roots is important! Hi guys. Maurizio and Corinna