LANDSCAPING : Today an ascending node passes through — a moment to step back and observe rather than dig or plant. Walk your garden with fresh eyes: check the ties on your clematis and wisteria, loosening any that have tightened as stems thickened over winter. Inspect your rhododendron and camellia for spent blooms; clear fallen petals from the base to discourage fungal build-up. Lavender benefits from a light tidy around its crown — remove any winter debris caught between stems without cutting into old wood yet.
ORCHARD : A good day to tend without disturbing the soil. Check the ties on your raspberry canes and kiwi supports, adjusting where new spring growth is pressing against wire. Spread a fresh 5 cm layer of well-rotted compost around the base of your quince tree and hazel, keeping it clear of the trunk — this feeds soil life slowly and retains spring moisture as temperatures rise. Harvest any rhubarb stems that are ready, cutting cleanly at the base.
INDOORS : Keep an eye on your lemon tree if it is still under cover — good ventilation now prevents mould on the lower leaves as days warm up. Check the compost moisture with a finger: if the top 2 cm feels dry, water gently at the base. A node day is also a fine moment to sharpen your secateurs and hoe blades so they are ready for the busy weeks ahead.