VEGETABLE PATCH : The descending moon on a root day draws energy downward — a reliable signal to focus on what grows beneath the surface. Sow parsnip (‘Hollow Crown’, ‘Tender and True’) directly into a fine, stone-free seedbed at 1 cm deep, thinning later to 15 cm apart; parsnips resent transplanting, so sowing in place is non-negotiable / Direct-sow scorzonera and salsify in rows 30 cm apart at 2 cm deep — both are underused roots that deserve more space in the spring kitchen garden / Where turnips (‘Golden Ball’, ‘Purple Top Milan’) were started indoors, harden them off now before planting out at 20 cm spacing; their rapid growth rewards a well-prepared bed / Hoe between established rows of Hamburg parsley and celeriac to break any surface crust and reduce moisture loss — a light pass with a hand hoe is enough without disturbing shallow feeder roots.
INDOORS : Radish seedlings started on a windowsill can be potted on into deeper 15 cm containers if roots are beginning to crowd — use a gritty compost mix to keep drainage sharp / Check stored dahlias and begonia tubers for any soft spots: cut away any rot with a clean knife, dust the wound with powdered sulphur, and set aside to dry before replanting in a few weeks / On sandy soils or in pots, water celeriac and leek seedlings with a dilute seaweed feed (5 ml per litre) to support steady root development without forcing soft, vulnerable growth.