Southern Missouri’s Almanac Traditions and the Spring Forecast for 2025.
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The Almanac is a long-standing tradition in many cultures, with roots tracing back to the ancient world. This reference guide, which offers a variety of information such as weather predictions, astronomical data, planting calendars, and tide tables, has been a staple in homes, farms, and businesses for centuries. For Southern Missouri, particularly in 2025, the Old Farmer’s Almanac or the Farmers’ Almanac will offer insight into weather patterns, moon phases, and gardening tips that locals can use throughout the seasons.
History of the Almanac.
The Almanac as we know it today can be traced back to the 16th century. The earliest versions were created to assist farmers in planning agricultural activities by providing seasonal weather predictions and lunar cycles. Over the centuries, almanacs evolved, including the addition of daily facts, trivia, and philosophical content. The two major types of almanacs that are still in use today are The Old Farmer's Almanac, first published in 1792, and the Farmers' Almanac, which was first published in 1818. These publications have long been a reliable source for rural and urban dwellers alike.
Types of Almanacs.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac: Established in 1792 by Robert B. Thomas, the Old Farmer's Almanac is renowned for its long-term weather predictions, which are based on a secret mathematical formula. It is one of the most popular almanacs in the United States, known for its folk wisdom and fun facts.
Farmers’ Almanac: Founded in 1818 by David Young, this almanac is similar in purpose but differs slightly in its methods. It offers weather predictions, gardening advice, and astronomical information. The Farmers’ Almanac also tends to include humorous anecdotes, puzzles and health tips.
Other Almanacs: Numerous regional and specialized almanacs exist today, including those focused on specific topics like sports, health, or the environment. These almanacs typically contain useful data for their niche audience.
Accuracy and Usage of the Almanac.
Almanacs are generally based on historical weather patterns, sunspot activity, and natural cycles. Though modern meteorology relies on advanced technology and precise models, many people still trust the almanacs' weather predictions, especially in rural and agricultural communities. According to almanac enthusiasts, these predictions are often surprisingly accurate due to their reliance on long-term trends rather than short-term weather patterns.
However, the accuracy of almanac forecasts is a subject of debate. Their predictions are made years in advance, using formulas based on a mix of historical weather patterns, solar activity, and lunar cycles. While modern-day meteorologists use more sophisticated technology and data, many people still find the almanacs’ predictions useful, especially for planning gardening, harvesting, and other seasonal activities.
Almanacs also provide seasonal planting calendars, which remain a valuable resource for gardeners, farmers, and those seeking to align their planting schedules with the lunar cycle.
Do People Still Use Almanacs?
Though technology has greatly advanced our ability to predict the weather, many people you continue to use the almanac for its charm, tradition, and practical advice. It remains especially popular in rural areas, among gardeners, farmers, and those interested in astrology. With its blend of weather predictions, celestial events, and other nuggets of wisdom, the almanac is still considered a trusted source by many.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac and Farmers’ Almanac are more than just old books of weather predictions—they are a blend of folklore, historical trends, and practical advice for modern life. Whether you're planning your garden, preparing for a storm, or simply interested in celestial events, these almanacs continue to be a valuable resource for those who appreciate their tradition and insight.
Strange, Quirky Advice in The Old Farmer's Almanac.
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Best Days for Killing Weeds: The Almanac recommends certain days for killing weeds, specifically on "weed days" (during the waning moon), when it's believed that plants are at their weakest. It suggests that weeds will be more effectively removed and less likely to grow back.
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Household Chores Based on the Moon: Some entries suggest that the phases of the moon influence when you should clean or do specific household chores. For example, it's said that you should clean and wax floors during a waxing moon (to make them last longer) and that washing windows is best done on a waxing moon for a streak-free shine.
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Predicting Storms from the Sky: The Almanac often mentions strange weather signs, such as the phenomenon of "the moon's halo," which is a ring around the moon. It’s believed that if you see a halo, it will rain within the next 24 to 48 hours. Some people also believe that a "red sky at night" signals good weather, but a "red sky in the morning" predicts bad weather.
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Weddings and the Moon: The Almanac offers advice on the best dates for getting married. It suggests that couples should marry during certain phases of the moon for good fortune, claiming that a wedding during a full moon is especially lucky, while a new moon could bring challenges.
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"Good Days" for Eating and Digestion: The Almanac claims that there are certain days of the month that are better for digesting certain types of food. For example, it's suggested that you should eat lighter, easier-to-digest foods during the waning moon and save heavier meals for the waxing moon.
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Animal Behavior for Weather Predictions: In the Almanac, there are claims that certain animals can predict weather patterns. For example, if you see cows lying down in the field, it’s said to indicate impending rain. Similarly, if a bird is seen flying low, it might mean that a storm is coming.
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Full Moon for Sowing Seeds: Some believe that sowing seeds during a full moon will make plants grow stronger and healthier. It’s thought to be tied to the lunar pull, similar to how the moon affects tides.
Here’s what you can expect in Southern Missouri, according to the 2025 Almanac Predictions for MARCH THROUGH MAY 2025.
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March 2025
- WEATHER FORECAST:
March 2025 will begin with relatively mild temperatures. However, expect a few sharp cold fronts and the occasional snow or frost in early March. These frosts will be most prominent in the first week of the month, particularly in the northern and central parts of Southern Missouri.
As March progresses, temperatures will gradually warm, and by the second half of the month, the risk of frost will diminish, signaling the true arrival of spring.
- KEY DATES:
- March 20: Spring Equinox – The day when day and night are of equal length, marking the official start of spring.
- March 25: Full Moon – This will be a "Worm Moon," which is a good time for planting early spring crops like peas and lettuce.
- GARDENING TIPS:
- March is a good time to prepare your garden beds. Start indoor seedlings for tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant. It's also the right time to prune any dormant fruit trees and shrubs.
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April 2025
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WEATHER FORECAST:
April is expected to bring slightly warmer weather, with average temperatures climbing into the 50s and 60s°F (10–20°C). Expect rain showers to be more frequent, so keep an eye on weather forecasts if planning outdoor activities.
Storms may become more frequent, and while Southern Missouri typically sees fewer tornadoes compared to the northern part of the state, there could still be severe weather warnings.
KEY DATES:
- April 6: Full Moon – This is known as the "Pink Moon" and signals a good time to plant root crops like carrots, beets, and onions.
- April 22: Earth Day – A great time for starting environmental or eco-friendly initiatives, such as planting trees or creating a composting system.
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GARDENING TIPS:
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April is perfect for planting hardy annuals, spinach, peas, and other cool-season crops. Just make sure to keep an eye on late frosts that could still impact tender plants.
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May 2025
- WEATHER FORECAST:
May will bring warmer temperatures, reaching into the 70s and 80s°F (21–27°C). This is the beginning of the full-fledged growing season, and you can expect more consistent warmth with little to no risk of frost by mid-month.
There could be occasional thunderstorms as well, so gardeners should prepare for heavy rains.
- KEY DATES:
- May 7: Full Moon – The "Flower Moon," a perfect time for planting flowers and vegetables that thrive in warm weather, such as tomatoes and beans.
- May 31: Memorial Day Weekend – Ideal for planting warm-weather crops like cucumbers, zucchini, and peppers.
- GARDENING TIPS:
- By May, the risk of frost has usually passed, so it’s the perfect time to plant summer vegetables like corn, beans, and squash. Also, it's a great month to apply mulch to retain soil moisture.
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(Courtesy: Webador)