VEGETABLE PATCH : Spring soil warms quickly now! The waxing crescent moon favors root development today – sow radishes in shallow drills 1/2 inch deep, spacing rows 4 inches apart for quick 3-week harvests. / Direct sow carrots in well-prepared beds free of stones, using a board to firm soil gently after seeding to ensure good soil-seed contact. / Plant onion sets 4 inches apart with tips just showing above soil level, firming soil around each bulb to prevent birds from pulling them out. / In heavier soils, incorporate sand and aged compost to improve drainage for better root formation of parsnips and beetroot.
LANDSCAPING : Notice how the morning light catches new growth? Trim ornamental grasses now, cutting back last year’s dead foliage to 3-4 inches above ground level to make way for fresh spring shoots. / Divide clumps of perennial herbs like chives and mint, replanting sections with healthy roots in enriched soil. / Edge lawn borders crisply to define planting areas before spreading a layer of organic mulch around established perennials. / For clay soils, work in grit and leaf mold around root zones of established shrubs to improve drainage as spring rains continue.
INDOORS : Houseplants respond to increasing daylight hours! Check root-bound specimens for circling roots and pot up into containers one size larger using fresh potting mix. / Rotate indoor plants a quarter-turn weekly to promote even growth as spring light intensifies through windows. / Begin fertilizing houseplants with half-strength liquid feed as new growth appears, applying to moist soil to prevent root burn. / Propagate spider plants, pothos and tradescantia by taking 4-inch stem cuttings and rooting them in water or moist potting medium.