LANDSCAPING : A flower day runs through most of today — the waning gibbous moon is descending, making this a fine window for transplanting and dividing. Settle cosmos seedlings into prepared beds, 30 cm apart in rows 40 cm wide; pinch the leading tip to encourage branching from the base. French marigold plants can go in alongside them at 25 cm apart, rows 30 cm — their scent alone is worth the effort, and they’ll draw in pollinators all summer. Zinnia transplants appreciate the same spacing as marigolds; choose a sheltered, sunny spot and firm the soil gently around each crown. On heavier ground, work in a little compost before planting to keep drainage sharp.
VEGETABLE PATCH : Cauliflower and broccoli seedlings raised under cover are ready to move out now — plant them 60 cm apart in rows 70 cm wide (cauliflower) or 50 cm apart, rows 60 cm (broccoli). Water in well after settling each plant; a small collar of soil around the stem helps anchor them against spring gusts. Artichoke offsets can go in too, spaced 1 m apart each way — they need room to spread, and the investment pays off for years.
ORCHARD : After the sign change this evening, the moon shifts to a leaf day — a quieter close to the day. Use the transition to add a layer of compost around fig trees and olive trees in pots, refreshing the surface without disturbing the roots. Check wisteria ties and adjust any that have tightened over winter growth.