Moon Planting calendar March 2027

VEGETABLE PATCH : Before the evening sign change, the descending moon holds a leaf day — a fine window for transplanting leafy crops under cover / Rocket seedlings can go into the cold frame now: space them 10 cm apart in rows 20 cm wide, pressing the soil firmly around each root / Cabbage modules are ready to move into a sheltered bed: set plants 50 cm apart in rows 60 cm wide — cool, firm ground helps them establish / Swiss chard transplants settle in well at this stage; plant out 35 cm apart in rows 40 cm, and water in gently to close any air pockets / Work in a 4–5 cm layer of mature compost before planting: it opens heavy soil and feeds the first flush of spring growth

LANDSCAPING : After the sign change this evening, the moon shifts to a fruit day — worth keeping in mind for tomorrow / Right now, mulch the base of your hydrangea with 6–8 cm of composted bark, kept clear of the stems: it locks in moisture and buffers late frosts / Camellia that has finished flowering can be lightly trimmed; remove crossing shoots with clean secateurs and top-dress with ericaceous compost

ORCHARD : Raspberry canes planted this winter should be checked and firmed down if frost has lifted them; mulch along the row with 5 cm of well-rotted material to conserve moisture as temperatures begin to climb / Grapevine pruning can still be completed before bud break — cut back each spur to two or three healthy buds and clear any tangled wood to open the framework to air and light

ORCHARD : A fruit day under the waning crescent — the sap is moving quietly and the wood is receptive. Reach for your grafting knife: this is a fine window to graft apple tree and pear tree scions onto rootstocks, using a cleft or whip-and-tongue technique / Grapevine pruning can still be completed now; cut back to two or three buds on each spur, keeping the framework open and airy / Check stored apples and quinces — any showing soft spots should come out before they contaminate neighbours.

VEGETABLE PATCH : The cold frame smells alive this morning — a sign the season is stirring. Sow tomato seeds under cover, 0.5 cm deep with seeds 3 cm apart; keep the propagator at 18–20 °C / Sweet pepper and aubergine both appreciate an early indoor start: sow 0.5 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, in a warm bright spot — they need a long growing season to deliver well.

ORCHARD : Today the moon reaches apogee — its farthest point from Earth — making this a quieter, more reflective day in the garden. Rather than pushing new growth, focus on care and observation. Walk among your fruit trees — apple tree, pear tree, quince tree, cherry tree — and check ties and stakes loosened by winter winds; loosen any that are cutting into bark before spring growth swells the wood / Mulch the base of raspberry canes and currant bushes with a 5–6 cm layer of composted wood chip, keeping material 10 cm clear of the stems to discourage rot / If you have a grapevine or fig tree, inspect the structure now while the wood is still bare: note any crossing or rubbing branches to address at the next favourable window.

LANDSCAPING : A calm morning is perfect for stepping back and assessing. Scan your roses for wind-rocked roots — press the soil back firmly around the base if any have lifted — and check clematis and wisteria ties along walls and pergolas, easing anything too tight / Hydrangea beds benefit from a generous mulch of leaf mould today; it retains moisture as temperatures start to climb and feeds the root zone slowly / Heather and rhododendron patches deserve a light hand-weeding now, before spring flushes their growth — disturb the soil as little as possible around their shallow roots. In Mediterranean gardens, the olive tree and oleander can receive a light tidy of dead wood, keeping cuts small and clean.

Before the morning sign change, a fruit day lingers briefly — then the day shifts firmly into root territory, and that's where the real work begins.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Reach for your seed packets now: a root day under the waning crescent is a steady, productive window for sowing. Draw drills 1 cm deep and drop carrot seeds 2 cm apart in rows spaced 25 cm — a light, well-raked bed gives them the best start / Parsnip is worth sowing early: 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide; germination is slow, so mark the row clearly / Black radish responds well to this timing too — sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm; the flavour deepens with cool spring nights / Thinning any radish seedlings already showing? Do it now, leaving 3 cm between plants to let each root swell without competition / On heavy or clay soils, work in a little sharp sand before sowing to open the structure and prevent compaction around tender roots.

ORCHARD : Scan the base of apple tree, pear tree, and quince tree trunks for any moss or lichen building up around the collar — gently clear it away and check that mulch hasn't crept too close to the bark / If you planned to plant garlic cloves but the ground was too wet last week, a drier spell now is worth seizing: push each clove 3 cm deep, tip upward, 12 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide.

LANDSCAPING : Check on any rose planted this winter — press soil firmly around the base if frost has lifted the roots, then water in gently to settle the ground and protect new growth as temperatures begin to climb.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day under the waning crescent — the soil is firm and ready. Draw a 2 cm deep drill and sow beetroot seeds 5 cm apart in rows spaced 30 cm; once seedlings emerge, thin to 10 cm for well-rounded roots / Turnip is worth sowing now too: 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide — they germinate quickly in cool spring soil / Salsify rewards patience: sow 2 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm; mark the row clearly as emergence is slow.

LANDSCAPING : A quiet morning is a good moment to check your rose bushes — remove any winter dieback cleanly with sharp secateurs / Mulch around hydrangea and rhododendron with a 5–6 cm layer of composted bark, keeping material 10 cm clear of the stems to retain moisture and feed the soil gently.

VEGETABLE PATCH : The ascending waning crescent brings a node passage early this morning — a brief pause worth respecting. Through the day, the root energy holds steady: tend what is already growing rather than starting anything new. Check on your potato chits indoors — tubers should show firm, compact sprouts no longer than 2–3 cm; keep them in a cool, bright spot until conditions improve / Walk along your artichoke bed and loosen any ties or straw mulch placed over winter crowns; a 5–6 cm layer of fresh compost around each plant (kept 10 cm clear of the crown) will fuel the first shoots / Harvest any overwintered lettuce leaves for immediate use before the plant bolts in rising spring temperatures.

ORCHARD : Wander among your fruit trees while the wood is still readable. Inspect raspberry canes and currant bushes — loosen any ties cutting into the bark as stems begin to swell / Check the base of your apple tree, pear tree and quince tree for moss or lichen build-up; scrape gently with a wooden spatula and apply a copper-based wash if needed / Mulch around your fig tree and grapevine with a 5–6 cm layer of composted bark, keeping the material clear of the trunk — it retains moisture and suppresses early weeds.

LANDSCAPING : After the evening sign change, the day shifts briefly toward flower energy — a welcome nudge to check your spring bulbs. Deadhead spent daffodil and hyacinth flowers without removing the leaves; the foliage must stay green for six weeks to replenish the bulb / Gently loosen the soil between hellebore and primrose clumps with a hand fork, then top-dress with a thin layer of fine compost / Inspect camellia and rhododendron for any winter-scorched tips and trim cleanly with sharp secateurs.

LANDSCAPING : A flower day under the waning crescent — with the new moon barely a day away, the energy is quiet but focused. Sow sweet peas under cover: push seeds 2 cm deep, 5 cm apart in deep modules; they'll plant out at 15 cm in rows 40 cm wide / Cosmos can go into trays now too — 0.5 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart; thin or plant out to 30 cm in rows 40 cm. Starting them under glass gives a real head start for early summer colour.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Cauliflower and broccoli are worth sowing under cover today — fill modules with fresh compost, press seeds 1 cm deep, 3 cm apart. Cauliflower goes out at 60 cm in rows 70 cm; broccoli at 50 cm in rows 60 cm. Keep trays in a bright, cool spot around 12–15 °C to prevent leggy seedlings.

ORCHARD : Grapevines are still dormant enough for late pruning — work through remaining canes before sap rises further. Raspberry canes planted this winter can be cut back to 30 cm to encourage strong new growth from the base.

LANDSCAPING : The new moon rises quietly this morning — a powerful reset for the garden. With the ascending moon and a flower day ahead, sow french marigold and zinnia under cover: press seeds just 0.5 cm deep, 3 cm apart in trays filled with fresh seed compost. Keep them in a bright, warm spot at around 18°C; they germinate reliably within a week. Nasturtium can go directly into deep modules, 2 cm deep, one seed per cell — their bold roots dislike disturbance later / Graft roses today if you have rootstocks ready: the ascending moon supports vigorous union, and a clean, swift cut with a sharp knife makes all the difference. Bind grafts firmly with grafting tape and keep them sheltered from cold winds.

ORCHARD : Wisteria is putting on new growth — check that supports are sturdy and tie in any young shoots before they tangle. A handful of balanced granular fertiliser worked lightly into the soil around the base will fuel the first flush of blooms / Raspberry canes are worth inspecting now: remove any remaining dead wood at soil level and check ties on the wires. In Mediterranean gardens, fig trees can receive a light formative prune before the sap rises too high.

INDOORS : After the sign change this evening, the energy shifts to a leaf day — a good moment to mist the foliage of lemon tree and oleander kept under cover, and to check that pots drain freely before spring warmth encourages overwatering.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A leaf day under the waxing crescent — the soil feels alive and ready. Sow spinach directly: press seeds 2 cm deep, 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm wide; thin later to 8 cm. Chervil can follow in the same bed, 0.5 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, rows 25 cm; thin to 10 cm. Both appreciate a fine, crumbly seedbed — rake the surface before sowing / Rocket is a quick win: sow 0.5 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, rows 20 cm; first leaves appear within two weeks. In heavier soils, raise the bed slightly for better drainage.

LANDSCAPING : Damp morning air suits foliar sprays well. Mist established roses, hydrangea and clematis with a diluted horsetail decoction — about 10 ml per litre — to strengthen cell walls before growth accelerates. Work in the morning so leaves dry before nightfall.

INDOORS : Celery seedlings deserve attention now. Once they reach 5 cm tall, pinch out the central tip to encourage a sturdier, bushier plant. Keep trays bright at 15–18°C and water from below to avoid damping off.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Parsley is calling — press seeds 1 cm deep, 2 cm apart in a well-raked bed or under cover in modules; thin later to 10 cm in rows 25 cm wide. Germination is slow, so keep the seedbed consistently moist. Swiss chard is another strong choice: sow 2 cm deep, seeds 5 cm apart, in rows 40 cm wide; thin to 35 cm once seedlings are sturdy / Chives deserve a spot too — sow 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, in rows 25 cm; thin to 15 cm. In heavier soils, work in a little compost before sowing to keep drainage sharp.

INDOORS : Tomatoes and basil thrive under cover on a leaf day. Sow tomatoes 0.5 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, at 18–20 °C. Basil follows the same depth, 2 cm apart — mist gently rather than watering heavily to avoid compacting the surface.

LANDSCAPING : Mist established hydrangea, clematis and wisteria with a diluted horsetail decoction — roughly 10 ml per litre — to reinforce cell walls before the season accelerates. Work in the morning when absorption is highest.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Before the evening sign change, leaf day energy is at its peak — a great window for sowing leafy crops and herbs. Try coriander: press seeds 1 cm deep, 3 cm apart, in rows 30 cm wide; thin later to 15 cm. Dill deserves a spot beside it — sow 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, rows 30 cm; thin to 20 cm once established. Both appreciate a fine, well-drained seedbed with good moisture retention. In sandy soils, work in a little mature compost beforehand to help hold water during germination / Cabbage is another strong choice for this moment: sow under cover in trays or modules, 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart. Later, plant out at 50 cm in the row, rows 60 cm wide — they need that room to heart up properly.

INDOORS : Lettuce seedlings started under cover benefit from a gentle misting with a horsetail decoction this morning (about 10 ml per litre) to strengthen young stems and keep fungal issues at bay. Make sure trays sit in bright light at 18–20 °C; leggy growth is a sign they need more light, not more warmth.

ORCHARD : After the sign change this evening, the day shifts toward a fruit day — a fine moment to apply a foliar spray of diluted nettle tea to apple trees, pear trees, cherry trees and currant bushes. This gentle feed supports the sap rising through young shoots and encourages robust early growth as buds continue to swell.

ORCHARD : Grapevines are wrapping up their winter dormancy — check that pruning cuts have healed cleanly, then tie in the first young shoots before they snap in the wind. Raspberry canes should be showing new buds now; firm any lifted roots back into the soil gently. Currant bushes and blackcurrants will reward a handful of well-rotted compost worked lightly into the base.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A fruit day under the waxing crescent — the energy favours crops grown for their harvest. Under cover, sow sweet pepper and aubergine: press seeds 0.5 cm deep, 3 cm apart in modules at 20–22 °C. Both are slow starters, so bottom heat makes a real difference. Courgette can follow in the same space — sow 2 cm deep, seeds 5 cm apart.

LANDSCAPING : Roses planted bare-root through winter are waking up — check the graft union sits just at soil level and mulch generously around the base, keeping it clear of the stems. Wisteria needs its support checked before vigorous new growth makes the job awkward.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Before the evening sign change, a fruit day sets the tone — the waxing crescent favours crops grown for their harvest. Sow cucumber under cover, 2 cm deep, seeds 5 cm apart, at 20–22 °C; bottom heat speeds germination significantly. Melon can go in alongside it, same depth and spacing, in individual modules to avoid disturbing the taproot later. Broad beans are worth starting too if you haven't yet: press seeds 5 cm deep, 10 cm apart, directly in the ground or a deep tray. In heavy soils, add a little coarse grit to the base of each drill to prevent waterlogging around the seeds.

ORCHARD : Grapevines pruned last month will be showing the first signs of life — watch for the tiny green buds swelling at each node. If you grafted any fruit trees recently, check that the union is holding firm and hasn't dried out. Raspberry canes planted this winter should be sending up new shoots now; give each plant a light mulch of well-rotted compost to retain moisture as spring warmth builds.

LANDSCAPING : After the evening sign change, the energy shifts toward root day — a quieter but productive end to the afternoon. Rose bushes planted bare-root over winter will benefit from a gentle firming around the base if frost has lifted the soil. Wisteria needs its support checked before new growth extends: secure any loose ties now, while stems are still manageable. Lavender appreciates a light trim of last year's spent tips to encourage compact, bushy regrowth.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Root day under the waxing crescent — draw shallow drills and sow carrot 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, rows 25 cm wide; thin later to 5 cm. Radish fits right alongside: 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, rows 15 cm. Beetroot deserves its own bed: 2 cm deep, seeds 5 cm apart, rows 30 cm — each cluster will need thinning to 10 cm later. In sandy soils, work in a little compost beforehand to help hold moisture during germination.

ORCHARD : Firm any heaved raspberry roots back into the soil with your boot, then water in if the ground feels dry. Parsnip can go in now too: sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm; mark the row clearly — germination is slow but worth the wait.

LANDSCAPING : Before wisteria buds open fully, shorten last summer's lateral shoots down to two or three buds to keep the framework tidy and direct energy into flowering. Roses in bare-root form can still go in the ground this week — spread the roots well and firm the soil without compacting it.

VEGETABLE PATCH : First Quarter reaches its peak today — a fine moment to work with root crops. Draw shallow drills and sow turnip 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 25 cm; thin later to 10 cm. Black radish deserves a try this season: sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm, thinning to 15 cm once established. If you have a spare corner, salsify rewards patience — sow 2 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm; its long, slender roots develop slowly but the flavour is worth every week. In heavier soils, loosen the bed to at least 30 cm with a fork before sowing to let roots push down without forking.

ORCHARD : Raspberry canes planted from November through to now will appreciate a light mulch of well-rotted compost around the base — keep it a hand's width clear of the stems to avoid rot. Grapevines showing early bud swell can be watered in at the roots if the soil feels dry to a finger's depth; avoid wetting the foliage at this stage. Currant bushes and blackcurrants will benefit from a gentle foliar spray of diluted seaweed solution to support the first flush of growth.

LANDSCAPING : A waxing moon and a root day make this a good window to tend structural plantings. Rhododendron and camellia both appreciate a top-dressing of ericaceous compost worked gently into the surface; avoid disturbing the shallow roots. If your lawn is still compacted from winter, a light scarify now — before growth really takes off — will help air and water reach the root zone more freely.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Before midday, a root day invites you to get hands in the soil. Plant chitted potato tubers 10 cm deep, 35 cm apart, rows 70 cm — choose a well-loosened bed and work in a shovelful of compost per metre before closing the drill. Shallot bulbs can go in at the same time: set them at soil level, 15 cm apart, rows 25 cm, pressing each bulb gently so just the tip shows. Jerusalem artichoke tubers are worth planting now too if you have a spare corner: 10 cm deep, 50 cm apart — they need little care and will reward you with a generous autumn harvest. In heavy soils, ridge the rows slightly to help drainage and warm the soil faster.

LANDSCAPING : After the sign change at midday, a flower day takes over — shift your focus to flowering plants and ornamentals. A good moment to settle in rose bare-root plants if you still have some waiting, or to work compost around established clumps of peony, keeping buds just 3 cm below the surface. Wisteria trained on a wall can receive a light tidy now before the growing season accelerates — shorten the lateral shoots left from the August pruning to two or three buds. Primroses planted from pots will fill gaps between perennials with cheerful colour through the rest of spring.

LANDSCAPING : A flower day runs through most of the day — a welcome prompt to get ornamental beds in order before the season accelerates. Set out bare-root roses now: dig a generous hole, spread the roots naturally, and backfill with a mix of soil and compost, firming gently so the union sits just at soil level. Sweet pea seedlings raised under cover can be transplanted 15 cm apart in the row, rows 40 cm, against a trellis or wigwam of canes — they'll thank you with weeks of fragrant blooms. Lavender planted today in well-drained, sunny ground will establish quickly; space plants 40 cm apart and press soil firmly around each root ball. Divide overgrown clumps of primrose after flowering and replant sections immediately, watering in well.

ORCHARD : Grapevines and fig trees planted this week in a warm, sheltered spot will settle in before summer heat arrives. For grapevines, dig a deep hole, position the plant with the bud union 5 cm above soil level, and stake firmly. A light dressing of compost worked into the base of raspberry canes will fuel the new growth already pushing up from the soil.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Before the sign change in the evening, cosmos and zinnia transplants can go into prepared beds — 25 to 30 cm apart, rows 30 to 40 cm — while the flower day still holds. Cauliflower and broccoli modules started earlier will be ready to plant out in six weeks; prepare their beds now with a layer of compost. After the sign change, the day shifts to a leaf day: a fine moment to check on lettuce transplants and freshen the bed with a light hoe.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Morning dew still on the leaves — a leaf day invites you to focus on foliage crops today. Plant out swiss chard seedlings 35 cm apart in the row, rows 40 cm, pressing soil gently around each crown so the base sits just at surface level; water in well. Chives transplanted in small clumps 15 cm apart, rows 25 cm, will spread quickly and reward you with weeks of harvest. Add a layer of compost between rows to retain moisture and feed the bed steadily.

LANDSCAPING : A steady spring light is the best prompt to tidy foliage shrubs. Hydrangea stems can be cleared of last year's spent growth — cut just above the first plump buds, which are already swelling. Rhododendron beds benefit from a thick mulch of pine bark: 5–8 cm around the base keeps roots cool and suppresses weeds without smothering the crown. If you have a bamboo clump getting out of hand, thin the oldest canes at the base to let light into the centre and encourage strong new shoots.

ORCHARD : A descending node passes through today, making this an unfavourable day in the garden. Turn that to your advantage in the orchard instead. Run a careful eye along raspberry canes and currant bushes: remove any crossing or dead wood cleanly, then lay a 5–7 cm mulch of well-rotted compost around the base of each plant, keeping it clear of the stems. Fig trees and quince trees benefit from the same treatment — a generous mulch ring now conserves moisture and feeds the soil as temperatures climb. Check any ties on young grapevines and kiwi supports; a loose tie can chafe new growth as it swells.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Hands in the soil without a trowel today — this is a good moment to weed beds thoroughly while the ground is still holding spring moisture. Work between rows of artichokes and around strawberry crowns with a hand fork, loosening the surface without disturbing roots. Once weeded, top-dress with a thin layer of compost to seal in the work. Harvest any overwintered mint for immediate use; a bunch snipped at soil level will regrow vigorously in the weeks ahead.

INDOORS : A quiet garden day is the right moment to sharpen hoes and trowels, clean propagation trays, and update the garden journal. Note which beds were weeded and mulched, sketch the planned rotation for tomatoes and roses, and check your stock of stakes and labels. Lemon trees and oleanders overwintering under cover may need a light watering if the compost feels dry a finger's depth down.

ORCHARD : A fruit day with a waxing gibbous moon building toward full — the orchard deserves attention today. Grapevines pruned in February will be pushing their first buds; check supports and tighten any loose ties before vigorous growth makes access awkward. Fig trees planted in a warm, sheltered spot will settle in quickly — dig a generous hole, backfill with compost-enriched soil, and water thoroughly. Raspberry canes can still go in 50 cm apart if you have bare-root stock; firm each one in well and cut back to about 30 cm to encourage strong new growth from the base.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Transplanting fruiting vegetables is well supported today. Aubergine seedlings started under cover can be moved into larger pots or a heated greenhouse bed, spacing them 50 cm apart in the row, rows 60 cm — they need warmth above 15 °C to thrive, so hold off on unheated outdoor beds for now. Sweet pepper seedlings at the four-leaf stage can be potted on into 10 cm pots with a rich, free-draining compost mix; this extra root space before final planting makes a visible difference to their vigour.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A fruit day stretches through most of today — put that energy to work transplanting courgette and cucumber seedlings started under cover. Set courgettes 80 cm apart in rows 100 cm wide, and cucumbers 60 cm apart in rows 100 cm; firm the soil gently around each stem and water in with a generous soaking. If you have melon or squash plants ready, they can go out under a cloche now — 80 cm apart for melons, 100 cm for squash. A handful of well-rotted compost worked into each planting hole gives roots an immediate boost and helps retain warmth in the soil.

ORCHARD : Raspberry canes planted this winter are starting to push new growth — check that each one is tied loosely to its support, with 50 cm between plants, and clear any weeds from the base. Grapevines will appreciate a top-dressing of compost now, spread in a ring around the base but kept clear of the trunk. If you have a fig tree in a warm, sheltered corner, a light feed of compost and a good watering will encourage the first flush of new leaves. Kiwi plants — remember one male to every five females — benefit from having last season's ties checked and adjusted before vigorous spring growth makes the job fiddly.

LANDSCAPING : Roses coming into bud respond well to transplanting on a fruit day; if you need to move a container-grown rose, do it now, planting at the same depth as in its pot and watering thoroughly. Clematis planted today with its roots in shade and its crown reaching toward the light will establish steadily. In the evening, the day shifts toward a root character — a good reminder to hold off on further transplanting and instead mulch around newly planted shrubs to lock in the day's warmth.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Full Moon on a root day — a powerful combination for getting root crops settled into freshly worked beds. Plant shallot bulbs just at soil level, 15 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide; press each one in firmly so it stands upright without rocking. Garlic cloves go in 3 cm deep, tip pointing up, spaced 12 cm apart — choose a spot with good drainage to avoid rot as spring rains arrive. Potato tubers that have been chitting on a bright windowsill are ready to go: set them 10 cm deep, 35 cm apart in rows 70 cm wide, then draw a gentle ridge of soil over the top. In heavier soils, work in a little compost before planting to improve drainage and warm the ground faster.

LANDSCAPING : A root day favours establishing plants with strong anchoring systems. If you have bare-root roses still waiting in the shed, get them in the ground now — dig a generous hole, work in compost, spread the roots outward and firm the soil well around the crown. Lavender and heather transplant well too; both appreciate a handful of coarse grit mixed into the backfill. Mulch every new planting with 5–7 cm of bark or straw, keeping material clear of the stems, to lock in moisture and give roots the calm they need to establish through the weeks ahead.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Morning light is strengthening and the soil is warming — a root day with a waning gibbous moon is well suited to planting and bed preparation. Set out onion sets 10 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide, pressing each one firmly so the tip sits just at soil level. Celeriac transplants started under cover can go out now, spaced 35 cm apart in rows 40 cm wide — work a little compost into each planting hole to give those slow-developing roots a head start. In heavier ground, incorporate sharp sand along with compost to prevent forking roots.

ORCHARD : Artichoke offsets can go into a sunny, sheltered corner now — set them 1 m apart each way and water in generously. Mulch the base of currant bushes with a 5 cm layer of well-rotted compost to retain spring moisture and suppress early weeds.

LANDSCAPING : Roses benefit from a generous mulch of compost around the base now — keep it clear of the main stem to avoid rot. Clematis newly planted this season will settle in faster if you shade the root zone with a flat stone or tile while letting the top reach for the light.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day under a descending waning gibbous moon — steady, grounded energy that suits underground work beautifully. Beetroot goes in 2 cm deep, 5 cm between each piece, rows 30 cm apart; their earthy sweetness rewards patient spacing. Jerusalem artichoke tubers can still go in now, 10 cm deep and 50 cm apart, in a sunny corner — a little compost worked into each hole gives them a strong start. Turnips planted out as young transplants appreciate firm contact with the soil and rows 25 cm apart.

LANDSCAPING : Verify that dahlia tubers stored over winter show no signs of rot before planting time arrives. Spread them on a tray in a frost-free shed and remove any soft sections cleanly with a sharp knife — they will be ready to go in after the last frosts, 10 cm deep and 60 cm apart. Horseradish root sections can go straight into the ground now, 40 cm apart in a contained bed, as they spread enthusiastically once established.

LANDSCAPING : Before the morning sign change, the ground still carries root-day energy — a good window to divide established clumps of primrose, spacing replanted sections 25 cm apart in lightly shaded, moist soil. Once the day shifts to a flower day, attention turns to colour and structure: transplant young sweet pea seedlings 15 cm apart in rows 40 cm wide, giving each one a cane to grip from the start. Lavender planted now in free-draining, sunny beds will establish quickly before summer heat arrives — choose an open spot and firm the rootball in well.

ORCHARD : Raspberry canes can go in now, 50 cm apart along a prepared row with a support wire already in place — a little compost worked into the base of each planting hole encourages strong early root contact. Currant bushes planted at 1.2 m apart will fill their space generously by midsummer; mulch the base immediately to hold moisture and suppress weeds.

VEGETABLE PATCH : With the moon descending and the afternoon turning to a flower day, cauliflower and broccoli transplants started under cover are ready to move out — set cauliflower 60 cm apart in rows 70 cm wide, broccoli at 50 cm in rows 60 cm. Press each transplant in firmly and water the base, not the leaves, to reduce stress. In heavier soils, add a handful of compost to each planting hole to improve drainage and give roots a nourishing start.

LANDSCAPING : The morning hours carry flower-day energy — a fine window to transplant young rose bushes into well-prepared beds, firming the roots in and watering generously. Clematis planted now in a spot with shaded roots and a sunny aspect will establish with surprising vigour; give each plant a cane to guide early shoots. Wisteria can go in against a solid support — it rewards patience, but a good start makes all the difference. Hydrangea divisions transplanted into moist, mulched soil settle in quickly at this time of year.

VEGETABLE PATCH : After the midday sign change, the day shifts to leaf energy — excellent for transplanting young lettuce plants 25 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide, pressing roots into firm contact with the soil. Swiss chard seedlings started under cover can go out now, spaced 35 cm apart in rows 40 cm; their broad leaves will appreciate the lengthening days. In sheltered beds, chives can be divided and replanted 15 cm apart in rows 25 cm — a quick job with a sharp trowel that yields months of harvests. Rocket transplants settle well too: thin to 10 cm in the row, rows 20 cm apart, and expect your first cut in just a few weeks.

ORCHARD : Raspberry canes not yet in the ground can still go in now, 50 cm apart along a prepared row — add a shovelful of compost to each planting hole and water in well. Currant bushes benefit from a mulch of well-rotted compost spread around the base, suppressing weeds and locking in spring moisture.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A steady leaf day under a descending waning gibbous moon — good conditions for transplanting work. Young cabbage transplants go out now, 50 cm apart in the row with 60 cm between rows; firm each plant in well so roots make direct contact with the soil, then water thoroughly. Spinach can be thinned to 8 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide — pull carefully to avoid disturbing neighbours. Parsley seedlings ready under cover can be thinned to 10 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide; a light mulch helps retain moisture as spring warms up.

LANDSCAPING : Check over hydrangeas before new growth fully breaks — remove spent stems cleanly at the base and spread a generous layer of compost around the root zone. Trim box hedging to tidy winter growth, keeping cuts clean with sharp blades.

ORCHARD : Spread a 5 cm layer of compost beneath blackcurrant and currant bushes to feed the soil ahead of fruiting season; keep it clear of the main stem.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Dew still on the leaves — a descending waning gibbous moon holds all day, making this a fine leaf day for transplanting work right through the evening. Celery seedlings started under cover can go out now, 30 cm apart in rows 40 cm wide; press each rootball in firmly so there's no air pocket, then water in well. Chervil thinned to 10 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide will bush out nicely before the warmer weeks arrive. Coriander thinned to 15 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide fills the same bed with a fresh, aromatic edge as temperatures climb. In Mediterranean gardens or under a polytunnel, basil plants can be set out 25 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide, but keep fleece handy for cold nights.

LANDSCAPING : A late sign change in the evening shifts energy toward fruit, but the day belongs to foliage — trim box hedges now for a crisp spring outline, working with sharp shears and collecting clippings carefully. Bamboo clumps benefit from thinning at this time: pull out the oldest, weakest canes at the base to let light and air into the centre. Spread a generous layer of compost around rhododendrons and camellia roots, keeping it clear of the stems; both plants reward a well-mulched, moisture-retentive root zone.

ORCHARD : Before the evening shift, take hardwood cuttings from currant bushes or blackcurrant — 20 cm sections, cleanly cut, pushed two-thirds into free-draining soil. Add a top-dressing of compost around raspberry canes to feed roots as growth accelerates.

ORCHARD : Scratch the soil gently beneath your fruit trees — a waning moon approaching last quarter is a fine moment to focus on fruiting wood. Grapevines can be checked now; press any loose soil back around the base and apply a mulch of well-rotted compost 5 cm deep, keeping it clear of the trunk. Raspberry canes can be tidied — remove any dead wood at ground level and check that supports are firm before new growth surges.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Sow tomatoes under cover, 0.5 cm deep with seeds 3 cm apart in trays or modules — a heated propagator at 18–22 °C gives the best germination. Sweet pepper and aubergine seeds sown now at the same depth will produce strong plants ready to set out in May. Courgette seeds can also go into modules, 2 cm deep with seeds 5 cm apart, ready for planting out once frost risk passes.

LANDSCAPING : Wisteria and clematis planted this week will settle in well with a thorough watering-in and a layer of mulch at the base — keep it 5 cm back from the stems to prevent rot.

ORCHARD : Last Quarter passed just after midnight — a fine moment to focus on fruiting trees and soft fruit. Check grapevines carefully: if you spot any loose ties or wayward shoots, reattach them now to guide the season's growth. Fig trees planted in a warm, sheltered corner can be given a light tidy — remove any frost-damaged tips cleanly with sharp secateurs. Kiwi plants benefit from a check of their supports; firm up any loose wires before vigorous spring growth makes the job harder. Spread a 5 cm layer of well-rotted compost around the base of cherry trees and plum trees, keeping it clear of the trunk to avoid rot.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A fruit day under a waning moon is exactly what cucumber and melon need for a confident start under cover. Sow cucumber seeds 2 cm deep, 5 cm apart in modules or trays and set them in a propagator at 20–24 °C — warmth is the key to quick, even germination. Melon seeds go in at the same depth and spacing; they appreciate a little extra warmth, so a heated mat works well if you have one. Broad beans already in the ground can be checked and earthed up lightly if recent winds have loosened them.

LANDSCAPING : Roses still have a little time for bare-root planting before new growth takes hold — work the soil well, add compost at the base, and position the graft union just at soil level. Wisteria on a sunny wall can be checked: shorten any long whippy shoots to two or three buds to keep the framework tight and encourage flowering spurs.

ORCHARD : Before midday, a fruit day invites you to tend your fruiting trees and shrubs with care. Walk the rows of your raspberry canes and check every tie — loosen any that have tightened over winter and reattach them firmly so new growth won't snap in a spring gust. Around apple trees and pear trees, pull back any old mulch that has compacted, aerate the surface lightly with a fork, then top up with a fresh 5 cm layer of well-rotted compost, keeping it well clear of the trunk. Currant bushes and blackcurrant benefit from a similar treatment: a generous mulch now retains moisture as temperatures climb and feeds the soil biology through the season.

VEGETABLE PATCH : After midday, the day shifts to a root day — a quieter, more grounding energy that suits observation and maintenance rather than active cultivation. Walk your beds and note where early sowings are taking hold: lettuce seedlings in particular can be checked for spacing. Artichoke offsets planted last week deserve a gentle look — firm in any that frost may have loosened, pressing soil snugly around the base. Potato beds can be earthed up lightly if the first shoots are just emerging, protecting tender growth from any late cold snap. In heavier soils, a light hoe between rows improves drainage and warms the surface faster.

LANDSCAPING : A good afternoon to step back and observe your ornamental beds with fresh eyes. Wisteria supports can be checked and any loose ties adjusted before the weight of new growth puts them under pressure. Rose bushes planted bare-root over winter can be given a mulch of compost around the base — 5 cm is enough to protect shallow roots and keep weeds at bay through April.