Before the change (morning), flower day:
LANDSCAPING : Wisteria and clematis are worth a close look this morning — both benefit from a tidy of any wayward growth now that summer vigour is easing. Shorten wisteria laterals back to five or six leaves and check that ties are holding without digging into the stems. Clematis can have spent growth removed at the base; mulch around the root zone with a 5 cm layer of well-rotted compost to lock in late-summer moisture. Hydrangea faded heads can be left on for now to protect emerging buds, but clear any fallen debris from the base.
After the change, leaf day:
VEGETABLE PATCH : The afternoon opens a solid window for transplanting leafy crops. Kale transplants go in at 50 cm in the row, rows 60 cm apart — firm each plant in well and water at the collar rather than overhead to limit slug activity. Swiss chard can follow at 35 cm in the row, rows 40 cm, with a small handful of compost worked into each planting hole. Corn salad is quick to establish: set young plants out at 5 cm in the row, rows 20 cm, in a sheltered corner where they’ll overwinter without fuss. Chicory transplants benefit from the same spacing logic: 30 cm in the row, rows 35 cm, in ground that drains freely. On heavier soils, a light fork-over before planting will help roots settle without sitting in waterlogged pockets.
INDOORS : Lemon trees in pots will soon need to come under cover — check drainage holes are clear and wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust before the move indoors.