VEGETABLE PATCH : A steady root day with the waxing gibbous moon — a reliable stretch for sowing under cover. Carrots go in at 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart in trays kept above 8 °C. Radish follows the same depth, 2 cm apart — a quick reward in midwinter. Try black salsify too: 2 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart; this underrated root repays patience with a rich, earthy flavour.
LANDSCAPING : Rhododendrons and camellias benefit from a generous top-dressing of ericaceous compost around the root zone — no digging needed, just a 5 cm layer laid loosely over the surface. Hellebores in light shade and moist soil will settle in well over the coming weeks; avoid disturbing established clumps.
INDOORS : Lemon trees and oleanders overwintering under cover need very sparing water right now — once every ten days is enough to keep roots from drying out without triggering rot. Check the soil at 2 cm depth before watering; if it still feels cool and damp, wait a little longer.