VEGETABLE PATCH : A full root day under the waning crescent — the descending moon draws energy steadily downward, making this a rewarding moment to work at soil level. Lift celeriac that has been sitting in the ground; the cold sweetens it, but a sharp frost can damage the flesh, so store trimmed roots in slightly damp sand in a cool shed. Beetroot still in the bed can be pulled now and stored the same way — brush off excess soil, twist off the tops rather than cutting to reduce bleeding. Leeks left standing are perfectly hardy; harvest a few as needed, cutting cleanly at the base.
ORCHARD : Bare-root currant bushes and blackcurrants planted now will settle in quietly over winter. Space them 1.2 m apart, work a generous handful of compost into the planting hole, and mulch the base with 8 cm of wood chip kept clear of the stems. Firm planting and good soil contact matter more than speed.
LANDSCAPING : Hellebore planted in light shade with moist, well-amended soil will reward you with late-winter blooms; handle the roots gently and avoid disturbing them once settled. Snowdrops can go in now too — tuck bulbs 8 cm deep in a cool, slightly shaded spot.