VEGETABLE PATCH : A full moon on a leaf day — the garden is buzzing with energy and leafy crops are the stars of the show. Transplant lettuce seedlings to their final positions, 25 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide, pressing the soil gently around each crown. Swiss chard plants go in at 35 cm in the row, rows 40 cm, in a spot with good moisture retention; their broad leaves will fill out quickly in the May warmth. Celery transplants move to the bed now at 30 cm in the row, rows 40 cm apart — keep the crowns level with the soil surface and water in well. Chives can be planted out at 15 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide; tuck them near a path where you can snip a handful on the way past.
Before the sign change (morning), flower day : Snip a few stems of lavender to trim its shape after any early blooms — avoid cutting into old wood. Wisteria benefits from a check of its ties and a light pinch of any wayward shoots reaching beyond the support.
After the change, leaf day : Basil transplants settle in beautifully now — set them 25 cm apart, rows 30 cm, in a warm, sheltered corner. Rocket can be thinned to 10 cm in the row, rows 20 cm, removing the weakest plants to give the rest room to run. Spread a layer of compost between cabbage rows to feed the soil and keep moisture locked in through any dry spells ahead.
INDOORS : Herbs in pots — parsley, chives, mint — appreciate a top-dress of fresh compost today. Pinch off any yellowing leaves to improve airflow and keep the plants producing well.