What is Moon Phase Harvesting? | | Print | |
Moon Phase Harvesting is an ancient method of preserving timber by cutting wood according to the phases of the moon. Like the tides of the ocean, the moon also influences the rise & fall of the sap in the wood. The wood is cut when the sap is lower, which is in the autumn & winter months i.e. hibernation period. During these months the sap in the tree is at its lowest in the days before the new moon. The lack of sap therefore is a natural protection that prevents insects & fungus from infesting the wood & thus increases its durability. Eco Design Architects supports the continuing scientific research on this field which is currently being conducted in Europe and Japan. Benefits:
When to cut: During the 3 days before the New Moon, but only between the Autumn Equinox & Winter Solstice. Please also see images of projects where Eco Design have used this ancient technique. Click here to view for project 1 or project 2.
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