VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day under the waxing moon — a solid stretch for sowing underground crops that will carry you through winter. Try parsnip first: sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, in rows 30 cm wide; their slow germination rewards a well-prepared, stone-free bed. Swede goes in at 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, in rows 40 cm wide — a dependable cold-weather staple that sweetens after the first frosts. Black salsify is worth a go if you have a deep, loose bed: sow 2 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, in rows 30 cm wide. In heavy soils, work in some coarse compost first so young roots push straight without forking.
ORCHARD : Check on recently planted bare-root apple, pear, and quince trees. Firm any rocked by wind, pressing soil gently around the roots. Spread a 5 cm layer of well-rotted compost around the base of each tree, keeping it a hand’s width clear of the trunk. Hazel trees planted this season benefit from the same treatment now.