VEGETABLE PATCH : New Moon this morning — the descending moon now pairs with a leaf day that runs through the evening, making it a solid window for harvesting leafy greens. Parsley clumps can be cut back to 3 cm, encouraging a fresh flush of tender growth from the base. In a sheltered corner, sorrel benefits from a light tidy — remove yellowed outer leaves to channel energy into the young centre. Chives trimmed close to the soil now will push clean new shoots as soon as light returns in January. Under cover, lettuce transplanted to 25 cm spacing in rows 30 cm apart will settle in quietly before the coldest nights.
LANDSCAPING : After the sign change this evening, the day shifts to a fruit day — a fine moment to turn attention to woody plants. Bare-root hazel or quince tree can go into prepared ground: dig a generous hole, work in a bucketful of compost, spread the roots and firm the soil well around them. Currant bushes planted 1.2 m apart now have the whole dormant season to anchor before spring growth begins. Rhododendron settled into ericaceous compost and mulched with a 5 cm layer of pine bark will appreciate the insulation through December frosts.
INDOORS : Lemon trees and olive trees in pots need very little water this month — check the compost 3 cm deep before reaching for the watering can. Wipe the leaves of your olive tree with a damp cloth to clear winter dust and help the plant breathe through the cold weeks ahead.