VEGETABLE PATCH : Root day energy dominates most of the day — a fine window for planting and soil work. Push shallot bulbs into prepared ground at soil level, 15 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide; firm them in gently so the tips just peek through / Onion sets can go in now too, 1 cm deep, 10 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide — they establish well in winter cold and reward you with an early harvest / If you have black salsify or salsify roots stored from last autumn, check them over and set aside any firm ones for replanting come spring / On heavy soils, work in some coarse grit or well-rotted compost to open up the structure before planting — roots will thank you for it.
LANDSCAPING : Before the evening change, there’s still time for a few useful tasks around ornamental beds. Check hellebores for any damaged leaves and remove them cleanly at the base to let the emerging buds breathe / Snowdrops pushing through now are a good sign — leave them undisturbed and clear any fallen debris around them gently / After the sign change in the evening, the day shifts to flower energy: a short window, but worth knowing if you plan to plant crocus or hyacinth bulbs in pots for a late indoor display — set them 8–12 cm deep in fresh compost and keep them in a cool, bright spot.
ORCHARD : Bare-root planting of apple trees, pear trees and quince trees can continue while the ground is workable. Dig a generous hole, spread the roots without bending them, and firm the soil in layers — a stake set before planting avoids disturbing the root zone later / Hazel and walnut trees planted now as specimens will establish steadily; water in well if the soil is dry despite the season.