VEGETABLE PATCH : The sign change happened in the early morning, so the leaf day is well underway by the time you step outside. Under cover, sow spinach 2 cm deep with seeds 3 cm apart in trays — germination stays reliable even in short December days when soil temperature holds above 5 °C. Corn salad goes in just 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart directly into a cold frame; it handles frost without complaint. Chives can also be sown under cover at 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, for a pot of fresh greenery on the windowsill by February. In heavier soils, mix a little sharp sand into your seed compost to improve drainage and reduce damping-off risk.
INDOORS : Check your lemon tree overwintering under cover — water sparingly, just enough to keep the root ball barely moist, and wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to help the plant breathe and absorb what little winter light reaches it. Good ventilation matters more than warmth: a slightly cool, airy space suits it far better than a stuffy room.
LANDSCAPING : The waxing moon past its First Quarter brings steady energy to the garden. Mulch the base of your hellebore and camellia with a generous 5 cm layer of pine bark — it insulates roots through hard frosts and keeps the soil moisture stable. Rhododendron benefits from the same treatment; use lime-free water if your tap supply is alkaline. Winter jasmine stems can be tied in now to guide their arching growth before spring.