Trees and the Lunar Cycle: A Surprising Connection
Trees and the Lunar Cycle: A Surprising Connection
Recent studies (2023–2024) have revealed that trees may have a “lunar clock” in addition to their well-known circadian (day–night) and seasonal rhythms.
What Researchers Found:
Tree Trunk Diameter Fluctuations
Using high-resolution dendrometers (devices that measure stem growth with micrometer precision), scientists observed that tree trunks subtly expand and contract in sync with lunar phases.
During the full moon, trees often show slightly higher sap flow and water movement.
Trees absorb and release water differently depending on lunar phases, leading to rhythmic changes in growth.
Cell Expansion & Lunar Light
Some evidence suggests that low levels of moonlight can trigger signaling pathways that influence plant growth genes.
This could explain why certain species coordinate flowering or leaf movements with the lunar cycle.
Historical and Cultural Parallels
Ancient forestry practices (e.g., in Europe and Asia) recorded that wood cut at certain moon phases was more durable.
Modern science may now explain this through moon-linked water content and growth activity in trees.
Why It Matters:
Understanding lunar-linked rhythms could improve forest management, timber harvesting, and even agriculture.
It highlights how deeply plants are connected not only to the sun but also to the moon’s gravitational and light cycles.
Reference:
Frontiers in Plant Science (2024): "Lunar cycles in stem growth dynamics and sap flow of temperate forest trees."
Trees: Structure and Function (2023): “Lunar influences on tree water relations.”
