VEGETABLE PATCH : A steady leaf day under a descending waning gibbous moon — good conditions for transplanting work. Young cabbage transplants go out now, 50 cm apart in the row with 60 cm between rows; firm each plant in well so roots make direct contact with the soil, then water thoroughly. Spinach can be thinned to 8 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide — pull carefully to avoid disturbing neighbours. Parsley seedlings ready under cover can be thinned to 10 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide; a light mulch helps retain moisture as spring warms up.
LANDSCAPING : Check over hydrangeas before new growth fully breaks — remove spent stems cleanly at the base and spread a generous layer of compost around the root zone. Trim box hedging to tidy winter growth, keeping cuts clean with sharp blades.
ORCHARD : Spread a 5 cm layer of compost beneath blackcurrant and currant bushes to feed the soil ahead of fruiting season; keep it clear of the main stem.