LANDSCAPING : New Moon at 07h02 (UTC) — a reset point that gardeners have long respected as a quiet invitation to tend what already exists rather than push for new growth. Rake up fallen leaves from around rose bushes (Rosa spp.), hellebores (Helleborus niger) and ornamental grasses, composting healthy material and discarding any showing black spot or rust / Deadhead the last stems of chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum × morifolium) and cut back to 10 cm above the soil, then mulch the crowns with a 5 cm layer of composted bark to protect against frost / Divide and replant clumps of Michaelmas daisy (Aster amellus) and rudbeckia that have become congested — use a sharp spade, keep divisions with at least 3–4 healthy shoots, and water in well / In mild coastal gardens, this is a good moment to plant winter-flowering pansies (Viola × wittrockiana) and cyclamen (Cyclamen hederifolium) in containers, spacing them 15–20 cm apart for a dense, cheerful display through to spring.
VEGETABLE PATCH : After three days focused on root crops, shift your attention to the plot’s structure and green cover. Sow a green manure of crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum) or phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia) on any bare beds — broadcast at 2–3 g/m², rake lightly to 1 cm depth; these will protect soil structure and fix nitrogen over winter / Check overwintering brassicas — Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera), kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica) and cavolo nero — firming any plants that have been loosened by wind by pressing the soil down firmly around the base with your boot / Harvest leeks (Allium porrum) as needed, slicing cleanly at soil level; varieties like ‘Musselburgh’ handle hard frost well and can stay in the ground as a living larder / In Mediterranean climates or under a cold frame, direct-sow lamb’s lettuce (Valerianella locusta) and winter purslane (Claytonia perfoliata) at 5 mm depth — germination is reliable below 10 °C and both crops will be ready to cut in 6–8 weeks.
INDOORS : A New Moon day suits quiet, preparatory work. Pot up amaryllis bulbs (Hippeastrum spp.) now for Christmas flowering — use a pot just 2–3 cm wider than the bulb, leave the top third exposed, and place in a bright spot at 18–20 °C / Check stored dahlias and begonias for soft spots or mould; dust any suspect areas with powdered sulphur and ensure crates are ventilated at 5–8 °C / Force a few hyacinth bulbs (Hyacinthus orientalis) in prepared bulb fibre — keep them in a cool dark cupboard for 8–10 weeks before bringing into warmth; the wait is worth every bit of the fragrance.