Moon Planting calendar December 2026

ORCHARD : The Last Quarter passed in the early hours, and the descending moon settles the day into fruit energy — a fine prompt to get bare-root trees into the ground before the soil hardens further. Apple and pear trees planted now will have the whole winter to establish quietly; dig a generous hole, work in a bucket of well-rotted compost, and set the union point 5 cm above soil level. Space apple trees at least 4 m apart for standard forms. Quince and hazel are equally at home planted today — both reward a thorough mulch of wood chip, 8 cm deep, kept clear of the trunk collar.

LANDSCAPING : If you have roses delivered bare-root, heel them in temporarily if the ground is frozen, or plant them straight away in a prepared bed with a handful of bone meal worked into the base of the hole. Hellebore transplants settle well in this period too — choose a spot with light shade and moisture-retentive soil, and avoid moving them again once established. Winter jasmine benefits from having its stems tied in now before winter winds loosen the framework; trim any dead wood lightly.

INDOORS : Lemon trees and oleander overwintering under cover need very sparing water this month — check that pots drain freely and that no water sits in the saucer. If you have a camellia in a pot, move it to a frost-free but cool spot and water with lime-free water only.

ORCHARD : Before the morning sign change, fruit day — use the early hours to check on stored apples and pears, removing any showing soft patches before rot spreads to neighbours. Quince and hazel planted bare-root earlier in autumn will benefit from a top-up of wood chip mulch, 8 cm deep, kept clear of the trunk collar.

VEGETABLE PATCH : After the sign change, root day takes over and the afternoon becomes prime time for underground work. Tuck garlic cloves in now — 3 cm deep, tip pointing up, spaced 12 cm apart — before the ground stiffens further. Shallot bulbs go in at soil level, 15 cm between each, rows 25 cm apart; firm them in gently. Lift any remaining parsnips, black salsify or skirret before a hard frost locks them in: parsnips actually sweeten after a frost, so taste one before you decide. Turnips still in the ground can be mulched with 8 cm of straw to extend the harvest window. Add a generous layer of well-rotted compost to cleared beds and work it lightly into the top 10 cm — the soil fauna will do the rest over winter.

LANDSCAPING : Bare-root roses arrive through December; plant them on a root day like this afternoon for a strong start. Dig the hole wide rather than deep, tease out the roots, and set the bud union just at soil level. Mulch with wood chip, 6–8 cm, kept clear of the stems.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day through and through — the descending waning crescent draws energy quietly downward. Lift any chinese artichoke tubers still in the ground; they keep best harvested fresh from November through March. Onion sets can still go in at 10 cm apart in the row, rows 25 cm — firm soil contact matters more than people think for good rooting in cold ground. Black radish left in the bed will improve with a frost or two, but lift and store in slightly damp sand if a hard freeze threatens.

ORCHARD : Bare-root raspberry canes are still going in well — plant 50 cm apart, cut canes back to 25 cm after settling them in, and mulch generously around the base. Currant bush and blackcurrant respond equally well to bare-root planting now; space them 1.2 m apart and work a shovelful of compost into each hole before backfilling.

LANDSCAPING : Hellebore planted this week in a lightly shaded corner with moist, humus-rich soil will reward you with blooms as early as February — once in, leave it undisturbed and it will multiply steadily on its own.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A full root day under the waning crescent — the descending moon draws energy steadily downward, making this a rewarding moment to work at soil level. Lift celeriac that has been sitting in the ground; the cold sweetens it, but a sharp frost can damage the flesh, so store trimmed roots in slightly damp sand in a cool shed. Beetroot still in the bed can be pulled now and stored the same way — brush off excess soil, twist off the tops rather than cutting to reduce bleeding. Leeks left standing are perfectly hardy; harvest a few as needed, cutting cleanly at the base.

ORCHARD : Bare-root currant bushes and blackcurrants planted now will settle in quietly over winter. Space them 1.2 m apart, work a generous handful of compost into the planting hole, and mulch the base with 8 cm of wood chip kept clear of the stems. Firm planting and good soil contact matter more than speed.

LANDSCAPING : Hellebore planted in light shade with moist, well-amended soil will reward you with late-winter blooms; handle the roots gently and avoid disturbing them once settled. Snowdrops can go in now too — tuck bulbs 8 cm deep in a cool, slightly shaded spot.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Most of the day runs as a root day under the waning crescent — the descending moon keeps energy close to the ground, which suits underground work well. Lift salsify or black salsify carefully with a fork, cutting roots as little as possible; store them upright in slightly damp sand in a cool shed. Horseradish side roots harvested now can be kept the same way. Turnips still in the bed are worth pulling before a hard freeze: brush off the soil, twist off the tops, and layer them in sand. Endive roots brought in earlier can be set up for forcing now — stand them upright in a bucket of just-damp compost in a dark corner, and blanched chicons will be ready in three to four weeks.

ORCHARD : A quiet afternoon suits bare-root planting of fruit trees and shrubs. A walnut tree or chestnut tree planted now in acid, well-drained soil will establish roots through winter without stress. Space currant bushes and blackcurrants 1.2 m apart; prune the stems back to four or five buds after settling them in, and mulch the base with 8 cm of wood chip, kept clear of the collar.

LANDSCAPING : Late in the evening the day briefly tips toward a flower day — a good cue to plant hellebore in a lightly shaded, moisture-retentive spot. Snowdrop bulbs can still go in at 8 cm deep if the ground allows; they reward patience with a gentle late-winter show. Winter jasmine stems can be tied in now to keep them tidy through the coldest weeks.

LANDSCAPING : A flower day under the waning crescent — the descending moon suits establishment work well. Bare-root roses can go in until March; dig a generous hole, mound the centre slightly, spread the roots outward and firm well. Hellebores settled into light shade now will establish quietly over winter; they resent disturbance once in place, so choose the spot carefully. Cyclamen tubers tucked in at soil surface level in a cool corner ask for very little and reward you with months of colour.

ORCHARD : Bare-root planting continues at a gentle pace. A quince tree or hazel planted now will anchor itself through the coldest weeks. Space currant bushes 1.2 m apart; blackcurrant cuttings taken from healthy stems this month root reliably in a sheltered spot.

INDOORS : Lemon trees and oleanders overwintering under cover need very little water now — once every ten to fourteen days prevents root rot without letting the rootball dry out. Check pots for waterlogging and ensure good ventilation to discourage grey mould.

LANDSCAPING : Before the sign change this morning, a flower day lingers — settle bare-root roses into well-prepared ground while the soil still carries a touch of that energy. Dig a generous hole, mound the centre, spread the roots outward and firm down well. Camellia and rhododendron transplanted into ericaceous compost now will anchor quietly before the coldest nights. Hellebore moved into dappled shade today will establish without fuss — choose the spot once, they dislike being shifted.

VEGETABLE PATCH : After the sign change, a leaf day takes over and holds for the rest of the afternoon — a fine window for harvesting. Cut kale heads cleanly at the base; the plant will push new side shoots even in cold weather. Brussels sprout buttons snapped off from the bottom of the stem stay sweet after a frost. Corn salad gathered in the early afternoon, rinsed and stored loosely in a damp cloth in the fridge, will keep its crunch for days. Under cover, check chicory forcing buckets in a dark corner — blanched chicons forming over three to four weeks need only a peek to confirm progress, no disturbance.

INDOORS : A lemon tree spending winter indoors appreciates a light watering every ten days or so — cold, wet roots are the real threat now. Brush the leaves gently with a damp cloth to keep pores clear and light absorption efficient through the short December days.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A grey December morning — check under the cold frame and harvest leeks that have reached finger thickness. Pull them gently, trim the roots and the darkest outer leaves, then store upright in a cool shed. Spinach growing under cover can be picked leaf by leaf; younger leaves are milder and hold better in the cold. Watercress in a sheltered spot benefits from a light trim to encourage fresh growth.

INDOORS : Lemon trees overwintering under cover need very little water right now — check the compost with your finger and water only when the top 3 cm feels dry. Olive trees in pots appreciate a light wipe of their leaves with a damp cloth to clear dust and help them breathe. Avoid placing any pot directly against a cold wall without insulation beneath.

LANDSCAPING : Rhododendrons and camellias planted now in ericaceous compost will settle quietly before the hardest cold. Mulch the base generously — a 5 cm layer of pine bark holds moisture and protects surface roots. Winter jasmine stems that have sprawled can be tied back to their support today; it keeps the plant tidy and channels energy into the flowering shoots.

VEGETABLE PATCH : New Moon this morning — the descending moon now pairs with a leaf day that runs through the evening, making it a solid window for harvesting leafy greens. Parsley clumps can be cut back to 3 cm, encouraging a fresh flush of tender growth from the base. In a sheltered corner, sorrel benefits from a light tidy — remove yellowed outer leaves to channel energy into the young centre. Chives trimmed close to the soil now will push clean new shoots as soon as light returns in January. Under cover, lettuce transplanted to 25 cm spacing in rows 30 cm apart will settle in quietly before the coldest nights.

LANDSCAPING : After the sign change this evening, the day shifts to a fruit day — a fine moment to turn attention to woody plants. Bare-root hazel or quince tree can go into prepared ground: dig a generous hole, work in a bucketful of compost, spread the roots and firm the soil well around them. Currant bushes planted 1.2 m apart now have the whole dormant season to anchor before spring growth begins. Rhododendron settled into ericaceous compost and mulched with a 5 cm layer of pine bark will appreciate the insulation through December frosts.

INDOORS : Lemon trees and olive trees in pots need very little water this month — check the compost 3 cm deep before reaching for the watering can. Wipe the leaves of your olive tree with a damp cloth to clear winter dust and help the plant breathe through the cold weeks ahead.

ORCHARD : A fruit day holds steady — a good moment to tend to dormant trees. Bare-root apple trees and pear trees planted now will anchor well through the cold weeks ahead; dig a generous hole, mound the centre slightly and firm the soil around each root with your heel. Quince trees and hazel planted this month establish quietly with little fuss. Walk through your stored fruit crates today and remove any pear or apple showing the first sign of softness before it spreads.

LANDSCAPING : Bare-root roses suit December well — choose a sunny spot, loosen the soil to 40 cm and work in a handful of well-rotted compost. Snowdrop bulbs planted 8 cm deep in cool, light shade will push through in January, a quiet reward for a few minutes' work today.

INDOORS : Lemon trees overwintering under cover need very little water right now — check the pot weight before reaching for the watering can. Cyclamen in a cool room will flower longer kept away from radiators.

ORCHARD : Apogee today — the moon sits at its farthest point from Earth, making this a quieter moment in the lunar cycle. On a fruit day, turn your attention to the orchard with a steady hand and no rush. Walk the rows and check ties on young apple trees and pear trees; a winter storm can work a wire into bark before you notice. Raspberry canes planted this autumn deserve a look too — firm any that frost has lifted slightly back into the soil with your boot. If you have a walnut tree or chestnut tree, clear fallen leaves from around the base and pile them into a corner to break down over winter.

LANDSCAPING : Grapevines are fully dormant now — run your eye along each one and note where the framework needs reshaping before pruning begins in February. Currant bushes and blackcurrant plants benefit from a light mulch of well-rotted compost laid around the base, keeping roots insulated without touching the stems. Hellebore clumps starting to show buds can have their oldest, darkest leaves removed at the base — this opens the plant up and lets the flowers emerge cleanly. Camellia and rhododendron in acid beds will appreciate a top-up of ericaceous mulch now, before the coldest weeks settle in.

INDOORS : Lemon trees and oleander overwintering under cover need very little attention today — check soil moisture with a finger and water only if the top few centimetres feel completely dry. Wipe down shelves and trays, sharpen your secateurs, and take a few minutes to sketch out where you plan to place new fruit trees or berry bushes come spring.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Before the morning sign change, a brief fruit day opens the session — check stored apples and pears for soft spots, removing any suspect fruit before rot spreads to neighbours. After the sign change, the day settles into root day energy for the rest of the afternoon, and that is where the real work begins. Under cover or in a cold frame, sow carrots 1 cm deep with seeds 2 cm apart in rows 25 cm apart — a fleece layer over the tray will hold just enough warmth to coax germination in these short days. Radish can follow in the same session: sow 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, rows 15 cm. Beetroot is another solid choice — push seeds 2 cm deep, 5 cm apart, in rows 30 cm. In sandy or well-drained soil, parsnip rewards an early indoor sowing: 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm.

LANDSCAPING : Dig your fingers into the soil near a rose or currant bush — if it feels open and crumbly, it will accept bare-root planting well. December suits blackcurrant cuttings too: cut healthy stems of 20–25 cm, push two-thirds into loose, moist soil and mark them clearly. A mulch of well-rotted compost around the base of hazel or quince tree planted this autumn will protect roots from the first hard frosts and feed the soil slowly through winter.

INDOORS : Lemon tree in a pot deserves a careful check now — water sparingly, only when the top 3 cm of compost feels dry, and keep it in a frost-free, bright spot. Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to clear dust and help the plant make the most of the low winter light.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day with the waxing crescent — steady conditions for sowing underground crops under cover. Try turnip first: push seeds 1 cm deep, 3 cm apart, in rows 25 cm, then cover lightly with fleece. Black salsify is worth a tray too — sow 2 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm; its long dark roots are a quiet winter luxury. Skirret is a rarely grown gem — sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 40 cm, and thin later to 20 cm. Harvest any black radish or celeriac still in the ground for the kitchen today.

ORCHARD : Bare-root currant bushes and blackcurrant plants go in well now — space them 1.2 m apart, work a handful of compost into each hole and firm gently with your heel. Check ties on young fruit trees; a loose stake in winter wind does more damage than frost.

INDOORS : Your lemon tree in its pot needs very little water through December — check the soil every ten days and water only when the top 3 cm feel completely dry. Keep it away from cold draughts near the window at night.

INDOORS : The ascending node passes today — a quieter moment in the lunar rhythm, well suited to tidying the workspace rather than rushing into the soil. Rinse terracotta pots with a stiff brush and lukewarm water, then set them upside-down to dry fully before stacking; frost will crack any damp clay left outside overnight. Check your lemon tree and olive tree overwintering under cover: water sparingly, just enough to keep the root ball from drying out completely, and ensure ventilation to prevent grey mould building up in still air.

LANDSCAPING : Before the evening sign change, a root day runs through most of the afternoon — good timing to mulch the base of your rose bushes, hellebores, and camellia with a 5–8 cm layer of well-rotted bark. This insulates shallow roots and suppresses winter weeds in one pass. Check and loosen any ties on young cherry trees, plum trees, and hazel where the bark has thickened since autumn; a tight wire can girdle a stem without you noticing until spring. Rhododendron and hydrangea planted this season benefit from a light topdressing of ericaceous compost around the crown — no digging, just spread and leave it.

ORCHARD : Walk the rows of your apple trees and pear trees and inspect stored fruit one more time; a single soft pear can spread rot to its neighbours within days in a cool shed. Quince tree and walnut tree branches are worth a visual check too — remove any crossing or rubbing wood with clean, sharp secateurs, making smooth cuts that will callus neatly over winter.

LANDSCAPING : A flower day with the waxing crescent — good conditions for ornamental work. Bare-root roses go in well right now: dig a generous hole, mound soil in the centre, spread the roots and backfill firmly, spacing plants 80 cm to 1 m apart. Cyclamen tubers planted at the surface in cool shade will bring colour through the darkest weeks. Heather in acid soil adds texture and early nectar for pollinators.

ORCHARD : A pear tree or quince tree goes in now with minimal fuss — work a handful of well-rotted compost into the base of the hole, firm with your heel and water in gently. Hazel and walnut tree are worth considering for a wilder corner; both establish strongly when planted this month.

INDOORS : If you grow a lemon tree in a pot, water sparingly — just enough to prevent the root ball from drying out completely. Good ventilation matters more than warmth: still, damp air encourages grey mould on the lower leaves.

LANDSCAPING : A flower day with the waxing moon approaching its First Quarter — good conditions for ornamental work. Sow pansy seeds under cover, 0.3 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart in trays; they'll plant out later at 20 cm spacing. Camellia planted in ericaceous soil in light shade will reward patience with late-winter blooms — firm the root ball well and mulch with pine bark to protect from frost heave.

ORCHARD : Bare-root raspberry canes go in cleanly now — space them 50 cm apart and firm with your heel. Currant bush and blackcurrant both establish strongly this season: plant 1.2 m apart with a handful of well-rotted compost in each hole.

INDOORS : Check your lemon tree and olive tree overwintering under cover — water sparingly and ensure good airflow to prevent grey mould. Cut any faded cyclamen flowers cleanly at the base to encourage fresh buds through the darkest weeks.

VEGETABLE PATCH : The sign change happened in the early morning, so the leaf day is well underway by the time you step outside. Under cover, sow spinach 2 cm deep with seeds 3 cm apart in trays — germination stays reliable even in short December days when soil temperature holds above 5 °C. Corn salad goes in just 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart directly into a cold frame; it handles frost without complaint. Chives can also be sown under cover at 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, for a pot of fresh greenery on the windowsill by February. In heavier soils, mix a little sharp sand into your seed compost to improve drainage and reduce damping-off risk.

INDOORS : Check your lemon tree overwintering under cover — water sparingly, just enough to keep the root ball barely moist, and wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to help the plant breathe and absorb what little winter light reaches it. Good ventilation matters more than warmth: a slightly cool, airy space suits it far better than a stuffy room.

LANDSCAPING : The waxing moon past its First Quarter brings steady energy to the garden. Mulch the base of your hellebore and camellia with a generous 5 cm layer of pine bark — it insulates roots through hard frosts and keeps the soil moisture stable. Rhododendron benefits from the same treatment; use lime-free water if your tap supply is alkaline. Winter jasmine stems can be tied in now to guide their arching growth before spring.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A solid leaf day with the waxing gibbous moon — conditions favour leafy crops under cover. Sow lettuce 0.5 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart in trays; germination holds well when indoor temperatures stay above 8 °C. Leek seeds go in at 1 cm deep, 2 cm apart in modules — they'll be sturdy transplants by late winter. Harvest any overwintering sorrel or chicory leaves this morning; cut leaves keep their texture far better on a leaf day.

INDOORS : Parsley sown in a deep pot at 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, will give you a steady supply through the darkest months — place it on the brightest windowsill you have. A foliar spray of diluted horsetail decoction on your lemon tree overwintering under cover strengthens cell walls and helps ward off fungal issues in low-light conditions. Keep watering to a minimum, checking that the compost is almost dry before you water again.

LANDSCAPING : Watercress thrives in cool, moist conditions — sow 0.5 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart in a shallow tray kept consistently wet near a bright window or cold frame. Hellebore planted now in light shade and moist soil will reward you with elegant winter blooms in just a few weeks; avoid moving it once established.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Before the evening sign change, the waxing moon holds steady on a leaf day — a fine window for sowing under cover. Kale goes in at 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart in modules; these sturdy seedlings will be ready to plant out at 50 cm spacing come late winter. Brussels sprout seeds can follow the same method: 1 cm deep, 3 cm apart in trays, giving you a head start on the season. Sorrel sown under cover at 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, brings a pleasantly sharp leaf to winter harvests — keep trays in a frost-free spot above 8 °C for reliable germination. In heavier soils, a pinch of coarse sand in your seed compost helps drainage and reduces damping-off risk.

INDOORS : Your lemon tree overwintering indoors will appreciate a foliar spray of diluted horsetail decoction today — mist both sides of the leaves lightly to strengthen cell walls against the dry winter air. Check the olive tree too: water sparingly, only when the top centimetre of compost feels dry.

LANDSCAPING : After the evening sign change, the moon shifts to a fruit day — a good moment to check on your camellia in ericaceous soil and firm any frost-lifted root balls gently back into place. Winter jasmine stems can be tied in now to keep them tidy against their support; prune after flowering in late winter.

ORCHARD : Bare-root planting conditions are excellent on this fruit day with the waxing gibbous moon. Set in a pear tree or quince tree now — dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots fully, work in a handful of well-rotted compost, and firm the soil gently. Raspberry canes planted 50 cm apart will establish quietly over winter. Currant bushes and blackcurrants go in at 1.2 m apart; a mulch of bark or straw over the root zone protects against hard frost.

LANDSCAPING : Winter jasmine is flowering on bare stems right now — check that new shoots are tied in loosely so they don't whip in winter winds. Hellebores planted in light shade and moist soil will settle in well before their late-winter display begins.

INDOORS : Lemon trees overwintering under cover need very little water this month — check the compost and water only when the top 3 cm feel dry. Check stored apples and pears too, removing any soft or blemished fruits before rot spreads to healthy ones.

Before the evening sign change, a fruit day holds through most of the daylight hours — a rewarding stretch for orchard work and winter sowings under cover.

ORCHARD : Frost-silvered mornings like this one suit bare-root planting beautifully. Set in an apple tree or quince tree now, spreading roots wide in a generous hole; work in a good handful of well-rotted compost and firm the soil with your heel. Grapevines go in at this season too — choose a sheltered, south-facing wall and mulch the base thickly with straw to protect young roots. Hazel planted this week will have all winter to anchor itself quietly before spring. Collect any remaining dried seeds from rose hips or fig branches and store them in paper envelopes in a cool, dry place.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Under cover, tomato and chili pepper seeds sown 0.5 cm deep, spaced 3 cm apart in modules, get an early start on the season — keep trays above 18 °C for reliable germination. Aubergine seeds follow the same method and reward the patience of an early sowing. In sandy soils, add a little extra seed compost to retain moisture around germinating seeds.

After the evening sign change, the day shifts to a root day — a natural pause from fruiting tasks. Tidy the potting bench, check stored fruit for soft spots, and plan next season's orchard layout by lamplight.

INDOORS : Your lemon tree overwintering under cover benefits from a light wipe of its leaves with a damp cloth — dust-free foliage photosynthesises more efficiently through short winter days. Water sparingly, only when the top 2 cm of compost feels dry.

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.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day with the waxing gibbous moon almost full — the soil is quietly charged and ready for work under cover. Sow turnips at 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart in trays or a cold frame kept above 5 °C; their peppery bite is worth the patience. Parsnip follows the same depth, seeds 3 cm apart — a slow starter, but the sweetness that develops after frost is unmatched. Sow beetroot at 2 cm deep, seeds 5 cm apart; a module tray on a cool windowsill works well in midwinter. On sandy or free-draining soils, try skirret under cover at 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart — an old-fashioned root that earns its place.

LANDSCAPING : Snowdrops planted now at 8 cm deep will push through in just a few weeks — tuck them into a sheltered corner where you can enjoy them from a path. Hellebores appreciate a light top-dressing of leaf mould around the crown; avoid burying the growing tips. Camellia and rhododendron roots benefit from a 5 cm mulch of ericaceous compost laid over the surface without digging in.

Before the morning sign change, a root day opens the day — a quiet stretch well suited to tidying and protecting what is already growing.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Full Moon energy peaks early, so focus on the garden rather than the kitchen store. Leeks standing in the bed will appreciate a generous mulch of straw or well-rotted compost laid around their bases — this insulates roots and keeps the soil workable when frost bites hard. Check any winter protection fitted over cabbage plants: fleece should be anchored firmly at the edges so cold draughts cannot creep underneath. Corn salad already in the ground is tough, but a light covering of dry leaves between rows reduces soil splash and keeps leaves clean for harvesting.

After the morning sign change, a flower day takes over for the rest of the afternoon — a pleasant shift that turns attention to ornamental corners of the garden.

LANDSCAPING : Verify that hellebores in light shade have a clear view of the sky — fallen leaves piled on top can smother emerging buds at this season. Winter jasmine in full flower deserves a gentle check: tie in any long stems that have come loose from their support before wind does the damage. Camellias and rhododendrons benefit from a 5 cm mulch of ericaceous compost laid over the root zone now, keeping roots insulated through the coldest weeks ahead.

ORCHARD : Today suits tool care rather than orchard work. Sharpen and clean your pruning tools ready for the weeks ahead — wipe blades with an oily cloth, check that bolts are tight, and note in your garden journal which apple, pear, or quince trees are due for winter pruning once the moon has moved into a calmer phase.

Before midday, a flower day sets the tone — a good stretch for ornamental work and anything that benefits from flowering energy.

LANDSCAPING : Frost still in the air, but bare-root roses can go in whenever the ground is workable — plant them 60 cm apart, spreading roots carefully in a wide hole, and firm the soil well around the base. Hellebores are quietly coming into their own in shaded corners; plant them in moist, humus-rich soil and resist the urge to move them once settled. Camellias will thank you for a generous top-dressing of ericaceous compost around the root zone — no digging, just a 5 cm layer spread loosely. Hazel and quince trees planted now in light, free-draining soil will establish roots through the quieter weeks ahead.

ORCHARD : Bare-root apple trees and pear trees are at their best for planting from now until March — choose a sheltered spot, dig a generous hole, and stake firmly against winter winds. Currant bushes and blackcurrants can go in 1.2 m apart; winter is the right season to take hardwood cuttings of blackcurrant too, pushing 20 cm sections into open ground.

After midday, the sign shifts to a leaf day — a good moment to turn attention to leafy crops and protective tasks.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Check cauliflower and broccoli plants under cover; any yellowing outer leaves should be removed to improve airflow. Pansies grown in modules can be transplanted into sheltered beds 20 cm apart, adding a cheerful note while protecting the soil surface through the coldest nights.

Before the evening sign change, a leaf day sets the mood for most of the daylight hours — a fine stretch for anything that benefits from foliage energy. After the sign change, the energy shifts briefly toward a fruit day to close the night.

VEGETABLE PATCH : The cold is doing its work outside, but under cover there is still plenty to keep you busy. Chicory transplanted into a sheltered bed or deep container, spaced 30 cm apart in rows 35 cm, gives you a reliable bitter leaf through the darkest weeks. Chives moved from a module tray onto a cool windowsill will push fresh growth for the kitchen without any fuss. Harvest outer leaves of lettuce and sorrel growing under glass — steady picking encourages the plant to keep producing rather than bolting. Parsley clumps lifted carefully into a pot and brought under cover will continue to yield aromatic leaves well into winter.

LANDSCAPING : A quiet satisfaction comes from putting the garden to bed properly. Hellebores planted now in light shade with moist, humus-rich soil will settle in before winter ends and reward you with nodding flowers — once in, resist moving them. Camellia roots appreciate a 5 cm top-dressing of ericaceous compost spread loosely around the base without digging. Rhododendrons benefit from the same treatment: a permanent mulch of bark or leaf mould helps retain moisture and keeps lime from reaching the roots. Winter jasmine stems can be tied in loosely to their support now, keeping the arching growth tidy.

After the evening sign change, a brief fruit day opens — ORCHARD : a good moment to add a generous barrowload of well-rotted compost around the base of pear or apple trees, keeping it clear of the trunk by 10 cm; this slow-release feed will be drawn down by winter rains before growth resumes in spring.

LANDSCAPING : A descending node today calls for a pause on active garden work — instead, turn your attention to the structural tasks that keep a winter garden looking cared-for. If you have bare-root roses waiting in a corner, heel them into a sheltered bed temporarily and check that their roots have not dried out; wrap them loosely in damp hessian if the ground is still frozen solid. Winter jasmine, now in full cheerful bloom on a south-facing wall, benefits from having any wayward stems tied back to their supports — use soft twine and loop loosely so the stems can breathe. Mulch the base of hydrangeas and rhododendrons with a 5 to 8 cm layer of leaf mould or bark chips, keeping the material a hand's width clear of the stems to avoid collar rot.

ORCHARD : A good moment to walk the orchard with a notebook and plan the pruning work ahead for apple trees, pear trees, and quince trees once the Last Quarter arrives. Note any crossing branches, damaged bark, or signs of lichen build-up. If you have a currant bush or blackcurrant that needs relocating, today suits a careful inspection and root zone assessment — mark the spot with a cane so you remember when conditions improve. Clean and sharpen your loppers and pruning saw while you are at it: a blade that glides through wood cleanly is kinder to the tree and to your wrists.

INDOORS : If you have a lemon tree overwintering under cover, check the compost moisture with your finger — it should feel just barely damp, never waterlogged. A camellia in a pot will appreciate a light misting of the foliage on dry, centrally heated days to keep the buds from desiccating before they open.

ORCHARD : A fruit day on a descending moon — the right moment for winter orchard work. Bare-root apple trees and pear trees can go in while the ground is workable; dig a wide hole, spread the roots carefully, and firm the soil in stages. Space apple trees at least 4 m apart for standard forms. Raspberry canes planted 50 cm apart along a prepared row will reward you come summer — add a bucket of well-rotted compost to each hole.

LANDSCAPING : Camellia and rhododendron both benefit from a top-dressing of ericaceous compost applied now — spread a 5 cm layer around the root zone, keeping it clear of the stem. If you have a lemon tree spending the winter under glass, water sparingly but do not let the rootball dry out completely.

INDOORS : Strawberry runners kept in a cool but frost-free spot will be ahead of the game come spring. Check that pots are draining freely — waterlogged roots in winter are the main cause of losses.

Before the evening sign change, a fruit day fills most of the daylight hours — a good stretch to focus on woody plants and fruiting structures.

ORCHARD : Bare-root currant bushes and blackcurrants settle in well right now; set them 1.2 m apart in a prepared bed, work a generous handful of well-rotted compost into each planting hole, and firm the soil carefully around the roots. Grapevines can also be planted out if the ground is not frozen — choose a sheltered, south-facing position and stake securely against winter winds. Hazel planted this month will anchor itself quietly through the cold weeks ahead. Take hardwood cuttings from blackcurrant stems about 20 cm long, push them two-thirds into free-draining soil, and leave them to root over winter with minimal fuss. This is also a sound moment for fruiting pruning on quince and walnut: remove crossing branches and anything that crowds the centre, working with clean, sharp tools to keep wounds neat.

LANDSCAPING : Camellia and rhododendron both appreciate a refresh of their ericaceous mulch — spread a 5 cm layer of composted bark around the root zone, keeping it well clear of the stem base. Winter jasmine throwing out its cheerful yellow stems along a wall will benefit from having any loose growth tied back now, before the wind does the job less gently.

After the evening sign change, the energy shifts toward a root day — a quieter close to the evening well suited to turning compost or preparing ground for future planting.

VEGETABLE PATCH : The Last Quarter arrives this evening, making today a root day with real purpose. Garlic cloves planted now — 3 cm deep, tip up, 12 cm apart — will settle into cold soil and develop a strong root system before spring growth kicks in. Shallot bulbs can go in at soil level, 15 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide; a handful of compost worked into the base of each row gives them a gentle boost. If you have stored endive roots waiting in a corner, this is a fine moment to bring a fresh batch into the dark for forcing — a cool cellar or a covered crate works well. Chinese artichoke tubers can be harvested now for storage or the kitchen; their knobbly shapes keep well in slightly damp sand.

LANDSCAPING : Bare-root roses benefit from a last check before the hard frosts settle in — if the roots look dry, soak them in a bucket of water for an hour before planting or heeling in temporarily. A 5 to 8 cm mulch of well-rotted compost around snowdrop and crocus patches insulates the soil and feeds the bulbs from above without disturbing them. If you have heather in a border, a light top-dressing of ericaceous compost along the root zone now will carry it through to spring in good shape.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day under the descending Last Quarter moon — good conditions for practical underground work. Leeks still standing in the bed can be harvested now; twist gently and trim the roots before bringing them inside. If you have stored turnips or swede in a crate, check each one and remove any soft spots to protect the rest. Onion sets can go in where the ground is not frozen — push each bulb just below soil level, 10 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide, then firm the soil around them.

ORCHARD : Bare-root quince trees and hazel are worth planting out while the ground remains workable — dig a generous hole, spread the roots without bending them, and backfill in stages. Hazel benefits from a 5 cm mulch of wood chips around the base to retain moisture through the cold weeks ahead. A quiet walk through the orchard is also a fine moment to spot any crossing branches on apple or pear trees and mark them for attention in late winter.