Moon Planting calendar January 2027

VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day under the descending Last Quarter moon — steady, unhurried, perfect for underground work. If you have chinese artichoke in the ground, harvest now while the soil is workable: lift the small, segmented tubers carefully with a fork and store in damp sand / Check on stored jerusalem artichoke tubers: discard any that have softened or show signs of rot, and keep the rest in a cool, dark, airy spot / Leeks still standing in the bed benefit from a light earthing-up if frost is forecast — mound 5–8 cm of loose soil along the stems to protect the white shank and keep them tender.

ORCHARD : A quiet New Year's start suits the orchard well. Plant bare-root quince and hazel while the ground remains unfrozen — dig a generous hole, loosen the base, and settle the roots without cramping them before backfilling and firming with your heel / Currant bushes and blackcurrants planted now at 1.2 m apart will establish steadily before spring growth kicks in.

LANDSCAPING : Snowdrop bulbs planted in autumn are now stirring just below the surface — resist the urge to dig and simply mark their positions so you can divide them in the green come February / Hellebore planted in light shade and moisture-retentive soil will reward you with blooms in weeks; avoid moving established clumps once settled.

VEGETABLE PATCH : The early hours carry a root energy worth using before the morning sign change. Cauliflower transplants started under cover can be inspected and thinned if crowded; space seedlings to 3 cm apart in the tray so each plant builds a sturdy root system before planting out at 60 cm in the row / Broccoli seedlings under glass deserve the same attention — check spacing and remove any yellowing leaves at the base to keep air moving freely.

LANDSCAPING : Once the afternoon settles into flower energy, the descending Waning Crescent moon invites you to focus on ornamental and flowering plants. Plant bare-root roses now — dig a wide, generous hole, spread the roots without cramping them, and firm the soil well / Hellebores appreciate a top-dressing of well-rotted compost around the crown; avoid disturbing the roots, as they dislike being moved / Winter jasmine that has finished its first flush can be lightly pruned: cut flowered stems back by a third and tie in new growth to the support / Pot-grown camellias benefit from a check on their ericaceous compost — if the surface looks compacted, loosen it gently and water sparingly with lime-free water.

INDOORS : Cyclamen tubers sitting at the surface in cool shade will reward you with a second flush of blooms if you remove spent flowers cleanly at the base / A primrose picked up from a garden centre will thrive longer indoors if kept in a cool, bright spot away from direct heat sources — water from below to keep the crown dry.

LANDSCAPING : A flower day through the morning hours — bare-root roses are waiting for exactly this kind of quiet winter window. Dig a generous, wide planting hole, spread the roots without folding, and backfill with loose soil mixed with a shovelful of mature compost; firm gently and water in even if the air feels cold / Hellebores planted now in light shade and moist, humus-rich soil will settle their roots over winter and reward you with blooms in a matter of weeks — avoid moving them once they're in / Heather looks wonderful massed in groups of three or five; plant in acid soil and give the base a light mulch of pine bark to retain moisture.

ORCHARD : A bare-root apple tree or pear tree planted before the sign change benefits from the lingering flower energy — dig to 50 cm, work in compost, and stake firmly against winter winds / Currant bushes and blackcurrants planted 1.2 m apart will establish quietly through January; add a layer of compost around the base to protect the root zone / Raspberry canes set 50 cm apart in a sheltered row are low-maintenance now and will reward you come summer.

VEGETABLE PATCH : After midday the energy shifts to a leaf day — a good prompt to check on overwintering brassicas. Inspect cabbage still standing in the bed; remove any yellowing outer leaves to improve air circulation over damp winter weeks / Corn salad under a cloche can be thinned gently to 5 cm between plants, keeping the most vigorous rosettes / Snowdrops can be planted 8 cm deep in a sheltered corner while the ground remains workable.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A leaf day under the descending Waning Crescent moon — steady and quiet, well suited to leafy crops. Transplant lettuce seedlings started under cover, spacing them 25 cm apart in the row with 30 cm between rows; firm the soil gently so roots make good contact / Watercress loves cool, moist conditions: set young plants 10 cm apart in rows 20 cm apart and keep moisture consistent / Sorrel planted now in a sheltered corner will establish slowly and be ready to harvest come early spring — set plants 25 cm apart, rows 30 cm.

INDOORS : Potted chives benefit from a gentle top-dress of compost to keep them producing through the cold months — water sparingly, just enough to keep the compost barely moist.

LANDSCAPING : Rhododendrons and camellias appreciate a generous mulch of pine bark or leaf mould around the base — 5 to 8 cm keeps roots insulated and retains the lime-free moisture these plants need / Hydrangeas with spent flower heads still attached can have those removed now to let you assess the structure before late-winter pruning.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A quiet leaf day under the descending Waning Crescent moon — the garden is resting, but there is still useful work to do. Kale seedlings started under cover can be thinned to 3 cm apart in the tray, giving each plant room to build a sturdy frame before planting out at 50 cm in the row, rows 60 cm / Spinach transplants settle well now into a sheltered bed: set young plants 8 cm apart in the row, rows 30 cm, and firm the soil gently so roots make good contact / Brussels sprout seedlings under glass deserve a check — remove any yellowing leaves at the base to keep air moving freely.

LANDSCAPING : Bare-root plants are still very much in season. A camellia tucked into ericaceous soil in light shade will quietly anchor itself over the coming weeks / Rhododendrons appreciate the same gentle treatment: choose a lime-free spot and lay a generous mulch of composted bark 5–8 cm deep to insulate the roots / Winter jasmine stems that have grown long and loose can be tied back neatly to their support — ten minutes of work that makes a real difference to the plant's structure come spring.

ORCHARD : Before the morning sign change, a brief leaf window — worth using to check bare-root trees still waiting to go in. A quince tree or hazel planted now in well-prepared ground will have weeks to anchor before spring stirs. Dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots without bending them, backfill with loose soil, firm gently and water in. Space hazel at least 3 m from its neighbour to give it room to spread.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Once the day shifts to a fruit day, the focus moves to fruiting crops under cover. Drop a few tomato seeds into a tray of fine compost, 0.5 cm deep and 3 cm apart — they need warmth to germinate, so a propagator set to 20–22 °C makes a real difference / Aubergine seeds started now in a module tray, also 0.5 cm deep with seeds 3 cm apart, will have time to build strong plants before transplanting at 50 cm in the row / Chili pepper is worth starting alongside them: same depth, same spacing in the tray, and they appreciate a little bottom heat even more than tomatoes.

LANDSCAPING : A waning crescent moon with the New Moon just a day away — a quiet moment to plan rather than rush. Check on any winter jasmine already in flower: once blooms fade, prune back the flowered stems and tie in new green shoots to the support. Camellia and rhododendron in containers benefit from a top-up of lime-free water if the compost has dried out in the cold.

VEGETABLE PATCH : The apogee falls today, and with New Moon arriving this evening, this is a day to step back and observe rather than intervene. Walk through your covered beds and check on leeks and corn salad — remove any damaged outer leaves, loosen ties on any supported plants, and clear away debris that could harbour disease over winter / Harvest corn salad and cabbage outer leaves for immediate use; cut cleanly with a sharp knife to avoid bruising the remaining plant / Check soil moisture under mulch without disturbing roots — a finger pressed 3 cm deep tells you more than any gadget.

LANDSCAPING : A good moment to assess your winter structure. Look over hellebores for yellowing leaves at the base — removing them now improves air circulation and lets the emerging buds take centre stage / Check ties on winter jasmine and raspberry canes; a loose tie in winter wind can cause real damage over weeks / Inspect camellia and rhododendron foliage for any signs of stress — in cold snaps, a thick mulch of bark chippings 8–10 cm deep at the base keeps roots insulated without smothering the crown.

ORCHARD : Sharpen and clean your pruning tools today — a whetstone on the blade and a wipe with linseed oil on wooden handles takes twenty minutes and pays dividends all season / Check apple tree, pear tree and quince tree ties and stakes; winter storms can shift even well-anchored bare-root trees / Sketch out plans for currant bush or blackcurrant while the ground is too hard or wet to work — note 1.2 m spacing and an open sunny position, so you are ready to act the moment conditions improve.

ORCHARD : The waxing crescent moon is gaining light, and the morning hours bring a fruit day — a fine window for bare-root planting before the sign change around midday. Set in an apple tree or pear tree now: dig a hole wide enough to spread roots without folding, backfill with loose soil, firm well and water in generously / A quince tree or hazel planted before midday will benefit from the same energy — space hazel at least 3 m from its neighbour / If you have currant bushes or blackcurrants waiting in their bags, get them in the ground 1.2 m apart while conditions are kind.

LANDSCAPING : Winter jasmine is likely in full flower right now — hold off pruning until the blooms fade, but do tie in any wayward stems to keep the plant tidy / Check camellias and rhododendrons for frost damage on the buds; a layer of mulch around the base insulates roots and will slowly feed the soil as temperatures fluctuate / Hellebores are starting to show their nodding heads — remove any old, spotted leaves at the base to improve air circulation and let the flowers shine through.

VEGETABLE PATCH : After the sign change around midday, the day shifts to a root day — a quieter energy that suits careful soil work. Check corn salad under cover and harvest outer leaves cleanly with a sharp knife to keep plants productive / If you have strawberry runners still to position, firm them gently at soil level, crown just above the surface, 30 cm apart — they will anchor quietly through the rest of winter.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Firm soil underfoot, a thin waxing crescent above — a root day invites you to focus below the surface. Under cover, drop beetroot seeds 2 cm deep with 5 cm between seeds in a tray of loose compost / Black salsify rewards patient gardeners: sow 2 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, in deep stone-free soil / Harvest black radish or celeriac still in the ground — roots pulled on a root day have better keeping quality and firmer texture.

LANDSCAPING : Check on hellebores sheltered beneath walls — clear away yellowing leaves at the base to improve air circulation and reduce disease pressure / A light top-dressing of pine bark mulch around heather locks in moisture without smothering the crown.

ORCHARD : Quince trees and hazel benefit from a winter inspection: note any crossing branches before pruning season arrives / Mulch currant bushes and blackcurrants now with a 5 cm layer of well-rotted compost to feed roots through the cold weeks ahead.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Today an ascending node passes through, making this a day to pause rather than dig in. Set your tools down and walk the beds instead — observe which areas need attention, note where drainage is sluggish, and sketch out your spring rotation on paper / Check on leeks still in the ground: loosen any ties on supported stems and remove yellowing outer leaves cleanly to improve airflow / Harvest cabbage outer leaves for the table now, cutting with a sharp blade to protect the remaining plant. In colder regions, press soil back firmly around brassica stems if frost has loosened the ground.

LANDSCAPING : A quiet day suits a careful inspection of your winter-flowering plants. Look over camellia and rhododendron buds for frost damage — if the tips look glassy or brown, a layer of fleece overnight can prevent further loss / Check the base of hellebore clumps: pull away any blackened or spotted leaves at ground level to keep disease from spreading into healthy growth / Winter jasmine stems benefit from a gentle check of their ties now; loose ones can snap in wind before you think to look.

ORCHARD : Sharpen your pruning saw and secateurs while the ground is too hard to plant — a clean, well-honed blade makes every future cut safer and reduces tearing on bark / Walk around apple tree, pear tree and quince tree to spot crossing branches or deadwood you will target once the node passes and conditions improve / Hazel and currant bush bases can be mulched lightly with straw or bark to protect shallow roots from hard freezes ahead.

Before the change (morning), root day : The early hours carry the quiet energy of a root day — a good moment to walk the beds and observe where drainage is sluggish after recent rain / Corn salad is worth harvesting now while conditions suit: cut cleanly at the base and the plant will often regrow for a second cut / Indoors, this brief window suits checking stored roots — discard any soft or rotting specimens before they affect their neighbours.

After the change, flower day : VEGETABLE PATCH : Once the sign shifts, attention turns to flowering crops. Under cover, drop cauliflower seeds 1 cm deep, 3 cm apart in module trays — they'll be ready to plant out at 60 cm spacing once the cold eases / Broccoli benefits from the same treatment: sow 1 cm deep, 3 cm between seeds, in a tray of fine compost kept at around 15°C to encourage even germination.

LANDSCAPING : A flower day suits a good look at your winter-flowering shrubs. Camellia buds are swelling now — check for frost damage on exposed plants and consider a light fleece on cold nights ahead / Hellebores are beginning to nod their first blooms; clear away any blackened leaves at the base to let light reach the flowers and reduce fungal pressure / Pansy seedlings started earlier can be pricked out today: handle by the leaves, not the stem, and space into individual cells.

ORCHARD : Bare-root roses are still available and planting goes well on a flower day. Dig a wide hole, spread roots naturally, backfill with loose soil and firm well / Currant bushes planted now at 1.2 m apart will settle in before spring growth begins — water in after planting even in winter.

LANDSCAPING : A flower day under the waxing crescent — ornamental plants respond well to a little care right now. Bare-root roses can still go in the ground: dig a generous hole, work in some well-rotted compost, and settle the plant so the graft union sits just at soil level / Winter jasmine finishing its first flush benefits from having flowered shoots pruned back to a strong bud; tie in any loose stems to keep next season's display tidy / Heather appreciates a light trim after flowering — avoid cutting into old wood, and top-dress the base with ericaceous compost to maintain the acid conditions it needs.

ORCHARD : Bare-root planting of apple and pear trees is still well within its window — choose a mild, frost-free day, spread the roots generously, and firm the soil in layers without leaving air pockets / Currant bushes and blackcurrants planted now at 1.2 m apart will establish quietly through the cold weeks ahead / Hazel can also go in this month: unfussy about soil as long as drainage is reasonable. In heavier ground, mound the planting spot slightly to lift roots above any waterlogged layer.

Before the change (morning), flower day :

LANDSCAPING : Winter jasmine is still showing colour — right after its blooms fade, prune flowered shoots back to a strong bud and tie in loose stems to guide next season's growth / Hellebores are quietly opening now; a light mulch of leaf mould around the base keeps roots cool and moist and shows off the flowers beautifully / Camellia buds are swelling: check the soil moisture, as dry roots at this stage can cause buds to drop before they open — water with lime-free water if the compost feels dry.

After the change, leaf day :

VEGETABLE PATCH : The afternoon shift suits leafy crops well. Under cover, sow spinach 2 cm deep with seeds 3 cm apart in trays or directly into a cold frame — once seedlings are established, thin to 8 cm in the row with rows 30 cm apart / Sorrel is a rewarding winter crop: sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, and thin later to 25 cm — its sharp, lemony flavour is welcome in cold-weather salads / Chives can go into module trays now, 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, to be planted out at 15 cm spacing once the frost relents / Kale benefits from a foliar spray of diluted horsetail decoction today — it strengthens cell walls and helps the plant resist lingering cold.

INDOORS : Parsley growing on a windowsill will push out fresh growth if you harvest from the outermost stems, cutting cleanly at the base without disturbing the centre of the plant.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A leaf day under the waxing crescent — leafy crops are the priority. Under cover, sow lettuce 0.5 cm deep with seeds 2 cm apart in module trays; once seedlings are sturdy, plant out at 25 cm in the row, rows 30 cm apart / Chicory is another solid choice: sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart in trays, planting out to 30 cm in the row once established / Watercress suits a cool windowsill or cold frame — sow 0.5 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, and thin to 10 cm once the first true leaves appear.

INDOORS : Check on any potted lemon tree overwintering indoors — water sparingly, only when the compost feels dry a couple of centimetres down, and keep it in the brightest spot available / Cyclamen appreciates a light foliar spray of diluted horsetail decoction to strengthen its leaves and deter botrytis in the damp winter air.

LANDSCAPING : Snowdrops are just beginning to push through — let the foliage do its work and divide clumps only once they finish flowering / Rhododendron and camellia both benefit from a top-up of permanent mulch around the base, keeping roots insulated and retaining the lime-free moisture they need.

VEGETABLE PATCH : First Quarter arrives this evening, and the waxing moon is holding steady on a leaf day — a fine moment to focus on leafy crops under cover. Brussels sprout seeds sown now in module trays (1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart) will be ready to plant out at 60 cm spacing, rows 70 cm apart, once conditions improve / Leek is another excellent choice for a January tray sowing: press seeds 1 cm deep, 2 cm apart in modules, then plant out at 12 cm in the row, rows 30 cm apart once seedlings are pencil-thick / Corn salad can go into a tray or directly under a cloche right now, 1 cm deep with seeds 2 cm apart; thin to 5 cm in the row once the first true leaves appear, keeping rows 20 cm apart. In Mediterranean climates, outdoor sowing under a simple frame is already quite feasible.

INDOORS : A lemon tree spending winter indoors deserves a gentle foliar spray of diluted horsetail decoction — it reinforces the leaves against fungal issues that damp, low-light conditions can encourage / Cyclamen and primrose on a cool windowsill will benefit from harvesting any yellowing leaves at the base to keep air circulating freely around the plant.

LANDSCAPING : Snowdrops are beginning to push through — resist any urge to tidy around them; let the foliage do its work and feed the bulb for next year / Hellebores in a sheltered corner are quietly opening; clearing away old leaves around the base improves airflow and lets you actually see the flowers.

Before the change (morning), leaf day :

VEGETABLE PATCH : A brief window this morning before the day shifts — worth using well. Cabbage seeds pressed 1 cm deep, 3 cm apart in module trays will germinate steadily under cover; plan to plant out at 50 cm in the row, rows 60 cm apart, once seedlings are robust. Strawberry runners potted up now in a cool greenhouse will root quietly and be ready to go out in late winter.

After the change, fruit day :

ORCHARD : The afternoon opens up nicely for fruit work under a waxing gibbous moon. Bare-root apple and pear trees can go in now — dig a generous hole, spread the roots well, firm the soil without compacting it, and stake against winter winds. Raspberry canes planted at 50 cm apart will establish through the cold weeks and push up strong new growth come spring. Currant bush and blackcurrant are equally at home going in now, spaced 1.2 m apart; winter planting gives their roots weeks to settle before the season accelerates.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Under cover, start tomato, chili pepper and aubergine seeds in a warm propagator — all three need 20–25 °C to germinate reliably. Sow 0.5 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart in module trays. Aubergines benefit most from an early start: they need a long season to produce well, and every week gained now counts. In Mediterranean climates, a cold greenhouse is enough for tomatoes; further north, a heated propagator is worth every watt.

ORCHARD : A fruit day under the waxing gibbous moon — good energy for woody fruit work. Bare-root raspberry canes planted now at 50 cm apart will settle in quietly over winter and push strong shoots come spring / If you have a quince tree to establish, dig a generous hole, spread the roots carefully, and firm the soil well around the crown / Currant bushes and blackcurrants planted at 1.2 m apart benefit from a handful of well-rotted compost worked into the planting hole — it feeds slowly and builds a healthy root zone from the start / On heavier soils, raise the planting point very slightly to avoid waterlogging around the crown.

LANDSCAPING : Winter jasmine is putting on its quiet show right now — a few minutes spent tying in new stems keeps growth manageable and ensures next season's display is even better / Camellia buds are swelling: check that roots are sitting in ericaceous, lime-free conditions and that mulch is topped up to retain moisture without touching the stem / Hellebore clumps in light shade will reward you with their first blooms soon; clear any fallen leaves around them now to let air circulate and reduce fungal pressure.

Before the change (morning), fruit day :

ORCHARD : The early hours carry good fruit-day energy — worth seizing if you're an early riser. Check your apple and pear trees for any crossing or damaged branches and remove them cleanly with a sharp saw; a tidy framework now means better light distribution come summer / Currant bushes and blackcurrant plants can be lightly shaped, removing weak stems at the base and keeping five or six strong uprights / On a waxing gibbous moon, the sap is rising steadily, which makes this a good moment to inspect grafted trees for any signs of dieback around the union.

After the change, root day :

VEGETABLE PATCH : Once the day shifts to root energy, the vegetable patch takes centre stage. Under cover, sow carrot seeds 1 cm deep, spacing seeds 2 cm apart in rows 25 cm apart — they will germinate slowly in January warmth and be ready to thin to 5 cm once the seedlings are established / Black radish is another excellent candidate: sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm apart; these sturdy roots store well and add real bite to winter salads / Parsnip seed can be started under glass now, 1 cm deep, 3 cm apart — germination is slow, so sowing early gives you a head start / If you have a cloche free in the garden, garlic cloves pushed 3 cm deep, tip up, 12 cm apart, will quietly settle in through the cold weeks ahead.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day under a waxing gibbous moon — steady energy that suits underground crops well. Under cover, press celeriac seeds 0.3 cm deep in module trays, spacing seeds 2 cm apart; this slow grower rewards an early start / Beetroot can also go into trays now, 2 cm deep, seeds 5 cm apart — a warm windowsill or heated greenhouse works perfectly / Thin any turnip seedlings already in place to 10 cm apart in the row — good spacing now means plump roots later.

LANDSCAPING : Snowdrops are just beginning to push through, a quiet reminder that the garden has its own rhythm. Check hellebores for damaged or blackened leaves and remove them at the base — this lets the emerging flowers show properly / Rhododendron and camellia benefit from a generous layer of pine bark mulch around the root zone, keeping moisture in and protecting against lingering frost.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Root day energy dominates most of the day — a fine window for planting and soil work. Push shallot bulbs into prepared ground at soil level, 15 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide; firm them in gently so the tips just peek through / Onion sets can go in now too, 1 cm deep, 10 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide — they establish well in winter cold and reward you with an early harvest / If you have black salsify or salsify roots stored from last autumn, check them over and set aside any firm ones for replanting come spring / On heavy soils, work in some coarse grit or well-rotted compost to open up the structure before planting — roots will thank you for it.

LANDSCAPING : Before the evening change, there's still time for a few useful tasks around ornamental beds. Check hellebores for any damaged leaves and remove them cleanly at the base to let the emerging buds breathe / Snowdrops pushing through now are a good sign — leave them undisturbed and clear any fallen debris around them gently / After the sign change in the evening, the day shifts to flower energy: a short window, but worth knowing if you plan to plant crocus or hyacinth bulbs in pots for a late indoor display — set them 8–12 cm deep in fresh compost and keep them in a cool, bright spot.

ORCHARD : Bare-root planting of apple trees, pear trees and quince trees can continue while the ground is workable. Dig a generous hole, spread the roots without bending them, and firm the soil in layers — a stake set before planting avoids disturbing the root zone later / Hazel and walnut trees planted now as specimens will establish steadily; water in well if the soil is dry despite the season.

LANDSCAPING : Perigee today — the moon is at its closest point to Earth, amplifying its pull on soil moisture. A flower day calls for attention to ornamental plants. Check your hellebores for any blackened or damaged leaves and remove them cleanly at the base with sharp secateurs — this opens up the crown and lets the emerging buds breathe / Winter jasmine in full flower deserves a tidy: once the last blooms fade on a stem, tie in any loose shoots to their support to keep growth directed and prevent wind damage / Snowdrops pushing through deserve a clear path: weed gently around their base by hand, taking care not to disturb the bulbs below / Camellia buds are swelling now — check that any winter fleece is still firmly anchored, especially on north-facing walls where frost pockets linger.

ORCHARD : A good moment to step back and assess your fruit trees with fresh eyes. Walk the rows of apple, pear, and quince trees and note any crossing branches, dead wood, or signs of lichen build-up on the bark — jot it all down in your garden journal so you're ready to act when the right pruning window arrives / Currant bushes and blackcurrant plants benefit from a light mulch of well-rotted compost applied now around the base, keeping a clear collar around the stems to deter rot / Grapevine wires and posts are worth inspecting today: tighten any slack wires and replace wobbly stakes before the sap stirs and growth begins in earnest.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Full Moon energy peaks today, and with the moon descending through a leaf day for most of the day, leafy crops take centre stage. Transplant leek seedlings grown under cover into firm, moist ground — set them 12 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide, dropping each plant into a dibber hole and watering in without backfilling so the stem blanches naturally / Sorrel is a quiet stalwart worth establishing now: plant out young sorrel at 25 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide, in a sheltered corner — it will return year after year with very little fuss / Corn salad still standing in beds benefits from a light hoe between rows to aerate the surface and discourage moss; on sandy soils, a thin mulch of leaf mould holds moisture without compacting / Harvest any mature kale or brussels sprout leaves now for storage — the full moon draws sap upward and leafy crops cut today keep well.

LANDSCAPING : A brief flower window passed in the very early morning before the sign changed, so the rest of the day belongs to foliage work. Trim box hedges lightly if growth looks untidy — a tidy-up now, before the nesting season, causes no harm and keeps the structure crisp / Rhododendron and camellia both benefit from a permanent mulch layer: top up with pine bark or composted bracken, keeping the material away from the stems / Snowdrops are at their most charming right now — resist disturbing the bulbs, but do weed gently around them by hand to give them room to spread naturally.

ORCHARD : A descending moon and a node late in the afternoon call for gentle, ground-level work today. Wrap up any mulching around apple trees, pear trees, and quince trees — a 5–8 cm layer of well-rotted compost or bark chips laid in a wide ring around the base feeds the soil slowly and helps buffer root temperature through the remaining cold weeks. Keep the mulch a hand's width clear of the trunk to avoid rot / Currant bushes and blackcurrant plants benefit from a top-dressing of compost now: spread a thin layer around the drip line and leave it to the worms. If you have not yet checked the ties and stakes on young trees, walk the rows and re-secure anything loosened by winter wind.

LANDSCAPING : Before the afternoon node, take time to assess your ornamental beds with a clear eye. Hellebores with blackened or damaged leaves can be tidied: remove the old foliage cleanly at the base, which opens up the crown and lets the developing flower stems catch the light / Camellia and rhododendron in pots deserve a check — make sure drainage holes are clear and that standing water has not pooled in the saucer. On heavy soils, lift the pots slightly onto feet to prevent waterlogging / Winter jasmine that has finished its first flush can be gently tied in now: new shoots directed along their support will build next season's flowering framework. Snowdrop clumps emerging through leaf litter are a good sign — clear the debris around them by hand to give them room.

ORCHARD : Frost still lingers on the bark, but a fruit day with a waning gibbous moon is a solid window for planting bare-root trees. Set out apple trees, pear trees, quince trees, or cherry trees: dig a wide, shallow hole, spread the roots naturally, backfill with excavated soil mixed with a shovelful of well-rotted compost, firm with your heel and stake securely / Blackcurrant cuttings taken now root reliably — select pencil-thick shoots of 20 cm, cut cleanly just below a bud, and push them two-thirds deep into gritty compost in a sheltered spot / Raspberry canes planted at 50 cm apart will establish quietly before spring growth surges. On heavy soils, raise the row slightly to aid drainage.

LANDSCAPING : Camellia and rhododendron appreciate a 6–8 cm mulch of bark chips or pine needles around their base today — kept clear of the stem, it feeds the ericaceous soil and buffers late frosts. Roses planted bare-root now, settled into enriched soil, will reward you with real vigour come May.

ORCHARD : A fruit day with the descending moon is a solid window for pruning woody fruiting plants. Kiwi vines reward careful winter work — cut each lateral back to two or three buds from the main stem using clean, sharp secateurs to reduce disease risk / Grapevines can be shaped now too: remove crossing or damaged wood first, then select two or three strong canes to keep, tied loosely along the wire / Hazel bushes benefit from opening up the centre; remove inward-facing branches to let light and air circulate. On heavy soils, a 5 cm ring of well-rotted compost around each base feeds the soil slowly through the cold weeks ahead.

LANDSCAPING : Winter jasmine is often studded with yellow flowers on bare stems right now. Once the last blooms fade, tie in any loose stems before pruning — this channels energy into next season's flowering wood / Camellia buds are swelling; keep the soil consistently moist and add a thin mulch of bark chips around the root zone to buffer any remaining frost.

Before the change (morning), fruit day : Barely an hour of fruit day at the start of the morning — a narrow but worthwhile window. Use it to check on any stored apples or pears: remove any that have started to soften or show brown patches before they affect their neighbours. A quick inspection now saves the whole crate.

VEGETABLE PATCH : The soil feels cold underfoot, but a root day stretching through most of the day suits underground work well. Garlic planted now at 3 cm deep with cloves 12 cm apart will quietly anchor itself before any spring warmth arrives — choose a well-drained bed and push each clove tip upward / Parsnip roots still in the ground can be harvested for storage today; lift them gently with a fork to avoid snapping the long tap root / Consider forcing endive roots in a dark cupboard or under an upturned bucket: kept at around 15 °C, the pale chicons will be ready in three weeks / On heavy or waterlogged soils, hold off planting and use the time to work in coarse grit or well-rotted compost to open up the structure ahead of spring.

LANDSCAPING : Bare-root roses transplant well during the waning gibbous moon with a descending trend. Dig a generous hole, spread the roots without cramping them, and backfill with the excavated soil enriched with a handful of compost. Firm down with your heel and water in lightly even in cold weather — the moisture helps soil settle around the roots. Hellebores appreciate a top-dressing of leaf mould around their base now: it feeds slowly and keeps the crowns from drying out during frosty spells.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A root day with the descending moon calls for hands in the soil. Chinese artichoke tubers harvested now and stored in a box of slightly damp sand will keep firm and flavourful for weeks — lift them carefully with a fork to avoid bruising / Celeriac still in the bed can be brought in today: twist off the outer leaves, trim the roots lightly, and nestle the bulbs in a cool, dark shed / Beetroot lifted now stores well the same way — check each one for soft spots before packing.

LANDSCAPING : Snowdrops pushing through are a quiet reminder that the garden is waking beneath the surface. Work compost into beds that will later receive root crops: spread a 4–5 cm layer and fork it in shallowly / Hellebores appreciate a light tidy now: remove any blackened leaves at the base to reduce disease pressure / Rhododendrons benefit from a top-dressing of ericaceous compost around the drip line — no digging needed, just spread and let it work down slowly.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Check the shallot bed before planting — a well-drained, stone-free patch suits them best. Push each bulb into the soil so the tip sits just at surface level, 15 cm apart with 25 cm between rows / Onions can go in alongside: press sets 1 cm deep, 10 cm apart in rows 25 cm apart, tip facing upward / Turnips still in the ground can be lifted now — brush away loose soil and store in a cool shed in dry sand.

LANDSCAPING : Clear fallen leaves from snowdrop and crocus crowns to let emerging tips reach the light / Hellebores benefit from removing the oldest basal leaves now, which reveals the flower stems and reduces the risk of leaf spot / Rhododendrons in heavy soils often sit in waterlogged ground after winter rain; apply a bark chip mulch 5 cm deep around the drip line to improve drainage and protect shallow roots.

Before the change (midday), root day : The morning hours carry the quiet energy of a root day — a good stretch for working compost into beds that will later welcome spring plantings. Spread a 5 cm layer over bare soil and fork it in gently; the descending moon helps nutrients settle deep. If you have leeks still standing in the patch, lift a few now and store them upright in a bucket of damp sand in a cool shed — they'll stay crisp for weeks.

LANDSCAPING : Bare-root roses can go in now while the soil is workable: dig a generous hole, spread the roots outward, and backfill so the bud union sits just at soil level, spacing plants 60–80 cm apart / Hellebores planted today in light shade and moist, humus-rich soil will reward you with blooms for decades — avoid moving them once settled / Pansies and primroses from pots can be tucked into beds or containers, 20 cm apart, for an immediate splash of colour through the coldest weeks.

ORCHARD : Pear trees and apple trees respond well to formative pruning on a flower day — remove crossing branches and any dead wood, working with clean, sharp secateurs to keep cuts smooth. Currant bushes and blackcurrants can be pruned back hard now, cutting stems to outward-facing buds to encourage an open, productive framework next season.

LANDSCAPING : A flower day through most of the day — a fine stretch to work on ornamental beds while the descending moon encourages roots to settle. Bare-root roses can still go in until March: dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots without bending, backfill so the bud union sits just at soil level, and firm gently around the base / Divide clumps of primrose now if they have grown congested — tease apart the crowns with your hands and replant 20 cm apart in humus-rich soil / Hellebores in light shade will reward a top-dressing of garden compost applied around (not over) the crown: a 4 cm layer feeds the soil and suppresses weeds without smothering the emerging flower stems / Camellia buds are swelling — check that roots are not sitting in waterlogged soil; in heavy ground, raise the planting slightly or add grit to improve drainage.

ORCHARD : Bare-root raspberry canes are best planted before the ground warms: set them 50 cm apart, roots spread in a shallow trench, crown just at soil level, and cut the canes back to 25 cm after planting to encourage strong basal shoots / Quince trees and pear trees planted now will have weeks to anchor before spring pushes growth — work in a bucketful of well-rotted compost at the bottom of each planting hole / Kiwi pruning fits this window well: shorten laterals to two or three buds and remove any dead or crossing wood.

INDOORS : After the sign change this evening, the day shifts toward a leaf type — a quiet moment to check on any forced hyacinth or crocus bulbs in pots: remove faded flowers promptly and let the foliage die back naturally so the bulb stores energy for next year.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Frost still biting? That's no reason to stand idle — a leaf day suits leafy crops perfectly under cover. Transplant kale seedlings from trays, spacing them 50 cm apart in rows 60 cm wide, firming the soil well around each stem / Corn salad can be planted out in a sheltered row, 5 cm apart with 20 cm between rows; it handles frost well and gives reliable winter harvests / Settle chicory plants into the patch 30 cm apart in rows 35 cm wide — they'll bulk up nicely before spring.

LANDSCAPING : Trim box hedges lightly to tidy winter growth before new shoots appear — work with clean, sharp shears and remove no more than a few centimetres / Hydrangeas will benefit from removing spent flowerheads; cut just above the first healthy pair of buds and top-dress the base with a 5 cm layer of compost / Lay a mulch of bark chips around camellia roots to protect from lingering ground frost and retain moisture.

INDOORS : Lemon trees overwintering under cover need a careful check now — water sparingly only when the top 3 cm of compost feels dry, and wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and discourage scale insects.