VEGETABLE PATCH : A waxing crescent on a leaf day — the soil is ready and so are your transplants. Set out spinach at 8 cm in the row, rows 30 cm apart, firming each plant in well and giving a generous drink at the base. Sorrel transplants slot in at 25 cm apart, rows 30 cm, and will reward you with tender spring pickings if settled in now. Watercress does well in a moist corner: thin or plant out to 10 cm, rows 20 cm apart. Rocket can be transplanted at 10 cm in the row, rows 20 cm, and will give quick harvests before the first frosts. On sandy soils, work in a handful of compost around each collar to hold moisture through September’s drier spells.
LANDSCAPING : Box hedges appreciate a trim in September — clip lightly with sharp shears, then clear all clippings immediately to reduce the risk of blight. Hydrangea bases benefit from a 5 cm mulch of well-rotted compost laid around the root zone now, locking in warmth as nights cool. Clematis can have any weak or damaged stems removed at the base; check ties are secure without constricting the stems.
INDOORS : The First Quarter arrives this evening, marking a natural pause. Move potted lemon trees and olive trees back inside if night temperatures are dipping below 8 °C, and check that their pots drain freely before you bring them under cover for the season.