VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day under a descending waning gibbous moon — steady, grounded energy that suits underground work beautifully. Beetroot goes in 2 cm deep, 5 cm between each piece, rows 30 cm apart; their earthy sweetness rewards patient spacing. Jerusalem artichoke tubers can still go in now, 10 cm deep and 50 cm apart, in a sunny corner — a little compost worked into each hole gives them a strong start. Turnips planted out as young transplants appreciate firm contact with the soil and rows 25 cm apart.
LANDSCAPING : Verify that dahlia tubers stored over winter show no signs of rot before planting time arrives. Spread them on a tray in a frost-free shed and remove any soft sections cleanly with a sharp knife — they will be ready to go in after the last frosts, 10 cm deep and 60 cm apart. Horseradish root sections can go straight into the ground now, 40 cm apart in a contained bed, as they spread enthusiastically once established.