ORCHARD : First Quarter energy builds nicely today — a fruit day for most of the daylight hours makes this a strong window for harvesting. Twist apples gently upward from the spur; if they part cleanly, they’re ready for storage. Pears bruise easily, so handle each one with care and lay them in single layers on slatted trays. Gather any remaining quinces before night temperatures drop further — frost turns their firm flesh soft almost overnight. Walnut and chestnut trees are dropping their harvest now too; collect daily to beat squirrel competition and spread on a dry rack to cure.
Before the evening sign change (fruit day) : Grapevines can be checked for any remaining clusters — harvest now for immediate use or pressing. Inspect currant bushes and blackcurrants for dead wood; note what needs attention come winter pruning.
After the sign change, root day : Once the moon moves into a root phase this evening, shift focus to tree planting preparation. Mark out spots for a quince tree or hazel — both thrive planted in autumn while soil still holds warmth. Loosen the base of planting holes to 60 cm depth and fork in a generous bucketful of well-rotted compost. No planting tonight, but getting the ground ready now means you can move quickly on the next favourable root day.
INDOORS : Lemon trees and oleanders still outside? The First Quarter is a good moment to assess their condition before bringing them under cover. Check for scale insects along stems and wipe clean with a damp cloth before they come indoors — a small effort now prevents a stubborn infestation all winter.