Moon Planting calendar May 2027

LANDSCAPING : A flower day with a waning crescent moon — quiet but purposeful, well suited to ornamental work. Dahlia tubers can go in now that late frosts are easing: plant them 10 cm deep, 60 cm apart each way in a warm, sheltered spot. Chrysanthemum planted from pots today will establish readily; pinch the growing tips to encourage a bushy habit and generous autumn blooms.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Cauliflower and broccoli both respond well to a flower day for sowing under cover. Fill modules with moist compost, sow 1 cm deep with seeds 3 cm apart, and keep trays in a bright, cool spot. Artichoke offsets planted 1 m apart each way will settle in well before summer heat arrives — a particularly good choice for Mediterranean gardens or polytunnel growers.

ORCHARD : Walk the fruit garden and trim any strawberry runners diverting energy away from the crowns; the plants will redirect their effort into flowering and fruiting. Check cherry tree and plum tree branches for any crossing or rubbing wood — a clean cut now, while sap is active, heals quickly and keeps the canopy open to light and air.

LANDSCAPING : A damp morning is perfect for checking how spring plantings have settled. Before midday, the flower day energy is at its peak — a fine window to cut rose stems for a first bouquet, snipping just above an outward-facing bud to encourage the plant to branch and produce more blooms. Artichoke offsets planted 1 m apart each way will benefit from a generous water-in now; their bold architectural leaves will reward you through summer. Trim lavender lightly to keep plants compact, avoiding old wood, and collect any dried heather stems for indoor arrangements.

After the sign change around midday, the day shifts to leaf territory — a gentler, quieter mood that suits observation and care. Walk the beds and remove any yellowing or damaged foliage from chrysanthemum and hydrangea. Check wisteria supports, tightening any loose ties before stems thicken further. A light top-dressing of compost around the base of clematis will keep roots cool and feed the plant steadily through the season.

ORCHARD : Strawberry plants in full flower deserve attention today. Tuck straw beneath the developing trusses to keep fruit clean and discourage slugs — a small gesture that makes a real difference at harvest time. Inspect raspberry canes and remove any that show signs of die-back, cutting cleanly to the base. Currant bushes and blackcurrant can be given a 5 cm mulch of well-rotted compost around their base to conserve moisture as temperatures climb.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Fresh soil, cool hands — a leaf day calls for leafy crops. Sow spinach directly where it will grow: push seeds 2 cm deep, spacing them 3 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide. Rocket follows the same logic at just 0.5 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart in rows 20 cm — both will germinate quickly in the mild May soil. Swiss chard deserves a little more room: sow 2 cm deep, seeds 5 cm apart, in rows 40 cm, then thin later to 35 cm. Under cover, start celery modules now: barely 0.3 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, kept warm and bright until planting out at 30 cm in the row. A foliar spray of diluted nettle tea across young cabbage and chives seedlings will give them a gentle nitrogen boost right when they need it.

INDOORS : Herbs on the windowsill appreciate a leaf day too. Pinch yellowing leaves from potted chervil and coriander to improve airflow and redirect energy into fresh growth. A light misting of horsetail decoction on basil trays helps ward off early fungal pressure — keep the leaves dry by evening. Parsley sown in a deep pot, 1 cm deep with seeds 2 cm apart, will establish steadily on a bright, south-facing sill.

VEGETABLE PATCH : The soil is warming nicely — a leaf day with a waning crescent moon, just right for sowing herbs that will carry flavour all season. Push dill seeds 1 cm deep, spacing them 2 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide; once seedlings are established, thin to 20 cm for strong, feathery stems. Coriander follows a similar approach: sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart in rows 30 cm, then thin to 15 cm for bushy, aromatic plants. Chervil is worth adding too — sow 0.5 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart in rows 25 cm, then thin to 10 cm. All three benefit from a light foliar spray of diluted nettle tea to kickstart leafy growth; the nitrogen boost is especially welcome at this stage of the moon cycle.

INDOORS : A quiet but useful moment to check on module-grown seedlings under cover. Tomato seedlings started last month may now be ready for a gentle foliar spray of diluted horsetail decoction — a natural strengthener that builds cell wall resilience before planting out. Keep modules in a bright spot and ensure good airflow to prevent damping off. On sandy soils, start preparing outdoor beds with a layer of compost worked in shallowly; heavier soils can be left undisturbed until drier conditions return.

ORCHARD : Before the sign change this morning, the day opens on a leaf note — a quiet window for checking fruit tree foliage, removing any mummified fruits left from winter, and clearing moss from trunks with a stiff brush. If you have young cherry trees or plum trees, now is a good moment to inspect for aphid colonies on the shoot tips and rub them off with a gloved hand before populations build.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Once the day shifts to a fruit type after the sign change, conditions become genuinely favourable for fruiting crops. Sow courgette 2 cm deep, seeds 5 cm apart, under cover or directly in warm soil — they germinate fast and reward early sowing with an earlier harvest. Cucumber follows the same depth and spacing; keep modules at 18–20 °C for reliable germination. Melon seeds go in at 2 cm deep, 5 cm apart, best started under cover in a warm spot. For those with a greenhouse or polytunnel, sweet pepper modules sown 0.5 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, will appreciate the extra warmth — they are slow to get going and every week gained now counts. Aubergine can join them at the same depth and spacing. A light watering with room-temperature water after sowing avoids cold shock to these heat-loving plants.

LANDSCAPING : Wisteria trained along a wall or pergola will be pushing new side shoots energetically right now — pinch them back to five or six leaves to channel the plant's energy into flower buds for next year rather than unruly green growth.

VEGETABLE PATCH : New Moon energy — a fresh start for fruiting crops. With a rising moon and a fruit day, this is a strong moment to sow beans 3 cm deep, seeds 5 cm apart, in rows 40 cm wide; they'll germinate with real vigour over the coming days. Peas deserve a spot alongside them: sow 3 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 40 cm. If you have a warm corner or a cold frame, push broad bean seeds 5 cm deep, 10 cm apart, in rows 40 cm — they'll establish quickly before summer heat arrives. In heavier soils, add a handful of sharp sand to each sowing station to improve drainage and prevent rotting.

ORCHARD : A fruit day with a New Moon is a genuine ally for the orchard. Check raspberry canes for any weak or damaged stems and remove them cleanly at the base to concentrate energy into strong, fruiting shoots. Currant bushes and blackcurrant benefit from a deep watering around the root zone right now — not overhead, but directly at the base. If you grow a fig tree in a sheltered spot, this is a good moment to pinch the tips of young shoots to encourage branching and a better fruit set later in the season.

LANDSCAPING : Wisteria trained along a wall or pergola will be carrying its last blooms about now — once the flowers fade, shorten the long whippy shoots back to five or six leaves to keep the framework tidy and set the stage for winter pruning. Lavender planted in well-drained, sunny soil will reward you with a long flowering season; water sparingly and never let the roots sit wet.

ORCHARD : The morning opens on a fruit note — a brief window before the sign change that suits the orchard well. Run your eye over cherry tree and plum tree branches for any signs of bacterial canker or gummosis; scrape away any oozing patches and paint the wound with a natural sealant. Check raspberry canes too: remove any that show signs of wilting at the tips, cutting cleanly to healthy wood.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Once the day shifts to a root type after the morning sign change, the rising Waxing Crescent moon adds real momentum for root crops — a combination worth making the most of. Sow carrot 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, in rows 25 cm wide; a light sandy soil suits them best, so work in some sharp sand if your ground is heavy. Radish follows the same depth at 1 cm, seeds 2 cm apart, rows 15 cm — they'll be ready to harvest in three to four weeks. Parsnip is worth adding now: sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm, and be patient — germination is slow but the roots are magnificent come autumn. Black salsify is an underrated choice for a root day: sow 2 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm. If you have seedlings of beetroot already thinned, thin them now to 10 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide to give each root room to swell. In Mediterranean gardens, turnip can go in now before summer heat arrives: sow 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 25 cm.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A steady root day with a Waxing Crescent moon rising — good energy for getting root crops into the ground. Sow salsify 2 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, in rows 30 cm wide; they appreciate a deeply worked, stone-free bed. Follow with black radish at 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm — a robust grower that stores well into autumn. Onion seeds go in at 1 cm deep, 2 cm apart, in rows 25 cm; in sandy soil they establish quickly and need little fuss. Where celeriac seedlings started under cover are ready, pot them on or thin to 2 cm apart in the tray — they need space to develop before planting out at 35 cm in the row.

LANDSCAPING : Chrysanthemum plants set out now will have time to establish before summer heat — plant from pots and pinch the leading shoot to encourage branching. Lavender appreciates a light trim of winter-damaged tips at this stage, without cutting into old wood. Check clematis stems for any that have dried back and cut cleanly to the first plump bud. In heavier soils, work a handful of grit around lavender crowns to improve drainage and keep roots healthy through wet spells.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Today's descending Waxing Crescent moon brings a root day energy, but with the perigee arriving this evening, take a gentler approach in the garden. Weeding between potato rows is a satisfying task right now — a long-handled hoe keeps you upright and clears competing growth before it takes hold. While you're there, check that the soil is mounded up well around the stems; this encourages tuber development and protects against light exposure. Strawberry beds deserve attention too: clear any old straw or debris from around the crowns, top-dress with a thin layer of compost, and tuck fresh mulch beneath the leaves to keep the fruit clean and moisture in the soil.

ORCHARD : Run your hands along raspberry canes and look for any weak or crossing growth — remove these cleanly to improve airflow without reducing next season's potential. Beneath apple trees and pear trees, a layer of well-rotted compost spread to the drip line feeds the roots quietly and suppresses weeds without any digging. In Mediterranean climates, fig trees appreciate a generous mulch around the base to retain moisture as temperatures climb. Keep notes on what you observe: a quick entry in the garden journal today saves real guesswork come autumn.

LANDSCAPING : Wisteria finished flowering? Tidy the spent flower clusters and check the support structure — a sturdy frame now prevents damage when summer storms arrive. Rhododendron and camellia beds benefit from a refresh of ericaceous mulch; two to three centimetres of pine bark keeps the soil cool and the pH stable.

LANDSCAPING : A sign change just before dawn brings the day firmly into flower territory — a long, generous window ahead. Set out cosmos seedlings at 30 cm apart in rows 40 cm wide; their feathery foliage will knit together by midsummer and smother weeds naturally. Zinnia transplants go in at 25 cm spacing, rows 30 cm — firm the roots well and water at the base rather than overhead to avoid damping off. French marigold seedlings planted now at 25 cm in rows 30 cm will act as a companion barrier around beds, their scent quietly discouraging unwanted visitors.

ORCHARD : A flower day suits the orchard too, and wisteria trained over a pergola or against a wall will benefit from a tuck-and-tie session — weave in new shoots before they tangle and secure them to their support. Climbing roses can be guided along wires in the same spirit: no hard pruning, just redirecting energy upward. Add a shovelful of compost around the base of each plant to feed the roots as flowering winds down.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Tomato seedlings started under cover are ready to move on once night temperatures hold above 10 °C — plant them out at 50 cm apart in rows 70 cm wide, burying the stem deeply to encourage extra root formation. Cauliflower and broccoli transplants can follow at 60 cm and 50 cm respectively; in heavier soils, work in a little grit before planting to improve drainage and give roots room to establish.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A sign change early this morning shifts the day from flower to leaf territory — and the afternoon's long leaf window is where the real work happens. Swiss chard transplants go in at 35 cm apart, rows 40 cm wide; tuck the roots in firmly and water at the base. Cabbage seedlings started under cover can move to their final spots at 50 cm in the row, rows 60 cm — they appreciate the moist, cool soil of a descending moon. Lettuce plants set out at 25 cm, rows 30 cm, will establish quickly; in heavier soils, loosen the base of each planting hole first. Chives clumps planted at 15 cm, rows 25 cm, add a gentle freshness to salads and are wonderfully low-maintenance. Finish by mulching between rows with a 5 cm layer of straw to hold moisture and suppress weeds as temperatures climb.

LANDSCAPING : Dew still on the leaves — a fine moment to trim box hedging with clean, sharp shears. The descending moon suits foliage work well: cut hedges and topiary now and regrowth will be measured and tidy rather than rampant. Hydrangea foliage can be tidied too; remove any dead or crossing stems at the base. Rhododendrons benefit from a generous top-dressing of ericaceous compost around the root zone — avoid working it into the soil, just lay it on the surface and let it settle naturally.

ORCHARD : Spread a 6–8 cm layer of well-composted organic matter beneath raspberry canes and currant bushes, keeping it clear of the stems themselves. This feeds the roots gradually and keeps the soil cool and moist through the drier weeks ahead — both crops are shallow-rooted and grateful for it.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A descending node falls this evening, so keep today's work gentle and purposeful. The long leaf window through the afternoon is well suited to weeding around artichoke and potato rows — a hand fork between plants, a hoe along the rows. While you're at it, check that potato stems are well earthed up; loose, crumbly soil mounded to the base keeps tubers in the dark and encourages a fuller harvest. Strawberry beds reward attention right now: pull any runners that have strayed, remove yellowing leaves close to the crown, and tuck a little fresh mulch beneath the foliage to hold moisture and keep fruit clean.

LANDSCAPING : Mint is spreading quietly — divide congested clumps and replant divisions in a buried pot to contain the roots. Wisteria trained over a pergola deserves a check: remove any wayward shoots rubbing against gutters or windows, and tie new growth loosely to its support before it stiffens. Box hedging benefits from a quick inspection for box moth signs; remove any webbing by hand and clear fallen debris from the base.

ORCHARD : After the sign change this evening, a brief fruit window opens. Use those last daylight hours to harvest strawberries that are fully ripe — pick with the stalk intact to extend shelf life. Currant bushes and raspberry canes are worth a walk-through too: remove any broken stems, clear weeds from the base, and top up mulch to protect shallow roots through the warmer days ahead.

ORCHARD : The First Quarter passed early this morning, and the descending moon settles into a generous fruit day — a fine moment to give your orchard some attention. If you have young fig trees to establish, a warm, sheltered corner is their ideal home; firm the roots well and water deeply at the base. Raspberry canes planted at 50 cm apart will anchor quickly in moist spring soil — add a generous layer of compost around the base to retain moisture and feed the roots through the season. Currant bushes and blackcurrants benefit from a top-dressing of well-rotted manure worked lightly into the surface now; it feeds fruiting wood without disturbing shallow roots. In Mediterranean climates, this is also a good moment to check olive trees for any crossing branches.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Fruiting vegetables are in their element today. Courgette transplants go in at 80 cm in the row, rows 100 cm apart — give each plant a generous watering hole and let the soil settle around the roots. Aubergine seedlings raised under cover can move to their final positions at 50 cm in the row, rows 60 cm; in cooler regions, wait for a warmer spell or keep them under fleece for the first week. Sweet pepper plants appreciate the same treatment at 40 cm in the row, rows 50 cm. Melon transplants, if your site is warm and sunny, go in at 80 cm, rows 100 cm. A handful of compost tucked into each planting hole gives all these crops a steady, slow start.

ORCHARD : Dew still on the grass — a fine morning to work around your fruit trees and bushes. The descending waxing moon holds steady on a fruit day, making transplanting and settling roots a sound choice. Young fig trees planted in a warm, sheltered corner will establish well; work in a shovelful of compost and water deeply at the base. Kiwi plants go in at 3–4 m apart — one male vine for every five females. Grapevines benefit from a mulch layer at the base to conserve moisture through warmer weeks ahead.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Tomato transplants go into their final positions at 50 cm in the row, rows 70 cm apart — bury the stem to the first leaves for a stronger root system. Squash plants need generous spacing: 100 cm in the row, rows 150 cm. A top-dressing of compost around broad beans already growing will feed the pods as they fill out.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Before the change (midday), fruit day — bright spring light and a waxing descending moon make this a fine window for settling fruiting plants into the ground. Move cucumber plants out to their final spots at 60 cm in the row, rows 100 cm apart; bury them up to their first leaves for a stronger anchor. Pumpkin transplants go in at 120 cm apart, rows 150 cm — give them room to sprawl and work in a generous shovelful of compost at planting. Bean seedlings raised under cover can move out now at 8 cm in the row, rows 40 cm, in a warm, sheltered bed.

ORCHARD : A shovelful of compost worked around the base of young kiwi vines (one male to five females) will feed the fruiting wood through the weeks ahead. Grapevines and fig trees also welcome a mulch layer now to conserve spring moisture and keep surface roots cool as temperatures climb.

VEGETABLE PATCH : After the change, root day — the afternoon shifts the energy toward what grows underground. Earth up potato rows with a draw hoe, mounding loose soil firmly around the stems to keep developing tubers in the dark and encourage a fuller harvest. Strawberry beds reward a little attention too: tuck fresh mulch beneath the foliage to hold moisture and keep fruit clean as it begins to form.

LANDSCAPING : Artichoke offsets planted at 1 m each way will anchor well in moist, workable afternoon soil; add a handful of well-rotted manure at the base to sustain their vigorous, architectural growth through summer.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Dry soil crumbles cleanly between the fingers today — a root day under a waxing descending moon, and the ground is ready to work. Plant potato tubers 10 cm deep, 35 cm apart in rows 70 cm wide; if shoots are already showing, hill up existing rows with a draw hoe to protect them and encourage more tubers to form. Thin beetroot seedlings already in the ground to 10 cm in the row, giving each root space to swell evenly. Parsnip already established benefits from a light hoe between rows to break surface crust and improve root development.

LANDSCAPING : A steady light this morning suits root-day planting in the ornamental garden too. Dahlia tubers planted now at 10 cm deep, 60 cm apart in each direction will anchor well before the heat builds — choose a sheltered, sunny spot and add a shovelful of compost to each planting hole. Gladiolus corms can go in through June; stagger plantings every two weeks for a longer flowering season. Trim box hedging lightly and watch for signs of box moth — early detection makes all the difference.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Soil still cool from the night — a root day under a waxing descending moon, and the ground is ready to work. Plant shallot bulbs at soil level, 15 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide; firm them in so the tip just peeks above the surface. Garlic cloves go in at 3 cm deep, tip pointing up, spaced 12 cm apart. Celeriac transplants move out to their final spots at 35 cm in the row, rows 40 cm apart; keep the crown just at soil level and water in well. A light hoe between carrot rows breaks any surface crust and keeps the bed breathing.

ORCHARD : Raspberry canes planted now at 50 cm apart will anchor well before summer growth takes off — work compost into the planting hole and mulch the base to hold moisture. Currant bushes and blackcurrants benefit from a top-dressing of compost around the root zone; scratch it in lightly with a fork.

LANDSCAPING : A root day suits lawn care too — scarify any mossy patches with a spring-tine rake, then top-dress thin areas with a fine compost and soil mix. Box hedging trimmed now with sharp shears will hold a crisp shape through summer.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Morning dew on the leaves — a root day under a waxing moon, and the soil is calling. Plant onion sets 10 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide, pressing each one firmly so the tip just shows above the surface. Radish thinned to 3 cm in the row once established will swell more evenly — run your fingers along the row and remove the weakest plants now. If you have swede seedlings ready, thin them now to 25 cm in the row, rows 40 cm, so each root has real room to develop. A draw hoe worked between potato rows already in the ground will hill up the stems and protect emerging shoots from any late chill. On heavy soils, work in a little compost before planting to keep drainage sharp and roots growing straight.

ORCHARD : Fruit trees benefit from a generous mulch of well-rotted compost spread around the base now — keep it 10 cm clear of the trunk to avoid rot, and layer it 5–8 cm deep to retain moisture through the coming dry spells. Fig trees planted in a warm, sheltered spot this spring will appreciate a light watering-in with a full can at the base.

LANDSCAPING : In the evening, the day shifts to a flower day — a good moment to prepare the bed for chrysanthemum plants from pots; pinch the growing tips to encourage bushy, branching stems through summer. Lavender planted now in well-drained soil and full sun will anchor quickly and reward you with fragrant stems by midsummer.

LANDSCAPING : Pinch the soil between your fingers — a flower day under a nearly full waxing moon, and ornamental beds are ready for action. Transplant cosmos seedlings to their final spots, 30 cm apart in rows 40 cm wide, firming the soil gently around each stem. Zinnia plants go in at 25 cm in the row, rows 30 cm, in a sunny, sheltered position; they reward well-drained soil with months of vivid colour. French marigold transplants fill gaps in borders at 25 cm apart — their scent alone deters several common pests, making them as useful as they are cheerful.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Cauliflower and broccoli transplants raised under cover can move to their final beds today — set cauliflower at 60 cm in the row, rows 70 cm, and broccoli at 50 cm, rows 60 cm. Water in well and add a light mulch of compost around the base to retain moisture through the warmer weeks ahead.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A full moon on a leaf day — the garden is buzzing with energy and leafy crops are the stars of the show. Transplant lettuce seedlings to their final positions, 25 cm apart in rows 30 cm wide, pressing the soil gently around each crown. Swiss chard plants go in at 35 cm in the row, rows 40 cm, in a spot with good moisture retention; their broad leaves will fill out quickly in the May warmth. Celery transplants move to the bed now at 30 cm in the row, rows 40 cm apart — keep the crowns level with the soil surface and water in well. Chives can be planted out at 15 cm apart in rows 25 cm wide; tuck them near a path where you can snip a handful on the way past.

Before the sign change (morning), flower day : Snip a few stems of lavender to trim its shape after any early blooms — avoid cutting into old wood. Wisteria benefits from a check of its ties and a light pinch of any wayward shoots reaching beyond the support.

After the change, leaf day : Basil transplants settle in beautifully now — set them 25 cm apart, rows 30 cm, in a warm, sheltered corner. Rocket can be thinned to 10 cm in the row, rows 20 cm, removing the weakest plants to give the rest room to run. Spread a layer of compost between cabbage rows to feed the soil and keep moisture locked in through any dry spells ahead.

INDOORS : Herbs in pots — parsley, chives, mint — appreciate a top-dress of fresh compost today. Pinch off any yellowing leaves to improve airflow and keep the plants producing well.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Spinach transplants settle in beautifully on a leaf day under a waning gibbous moon — set them out at 8 cm in the row, rows 30 cm wide, and firm the soil gently around each plant. Chervil and coriander are worth planting out too: chervil at 10 cm in the row, rows 25 cm; coriander at 15 cm in the row, rows 30 cm. Both herbs appreciate a little shade in the midday heat of late May, so tuck them near taller crops. Finish by hoeing between rows to cut off surface weeds before they compete for moisture.

LANDSCAPING : Box hedges are ready for their May trim — run the shears along the sides first, then the top, and collect the clippings so they don't smother the base. If you have a hydrangea that's grown a little shapeless, light foliage trimming now tidies the outline without harming the buds. Spread a generous layer of compost around the base of clematis and wisteria, 5–8 cm deep, keeping it clear of the stems; a well-mulched root zone holds moisture through dry spells and feeds the plant steadily.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Before the evening sign change, a leaf day stretches through most of the afternoon — sow dill directly where it will grow, pressing seeds 1 cm deep and 2 cm apart, in rows 30 cm wide; thin later to 20 cm. Parsley can go in alongside: 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, rows 25 cm — it is slow to germinate but rewards patience with months of harvest, and late May soil temperatures help it along. Both crops benefit from a foliar spray of diluted nettle tea after sowing to give young seedlings a gentle nitrogen boost. In Mediterranean or very sunny gardens, a little shade cloth over newly sown rows keeps the soil from drying out before germination.

LANDSCAPING : After the evening sign change, the day shifts to a fruit type — a good window for bud or cleft grafting on apple tree, pear tree, cherry tree, or plum tree if you have young rootstocks ready. Work with a clean, sharp knife and bind the union snugly with grafting tape; keep the graft out of direct sun for the first few days. Grapevine side shoots can be pinched back to two leaves beyond the last flower cluster, directing energy into fruit set. Check wisteria too: any long whippy shoots that have grown since the spring prune can be shortened to five or six leaves now to keep the framework tidy and encourage flowering buds for next year.

ORCHARD : Dew still on the grass this morning — a good sign the soil is holding moisture well. On a fruit day under a waning gibbous moon, cherry tree branches are worth a close look for early aphid colonies; a diluted soft-soap spray in the cooler morning hours keeps them in check without stressing the tree. Raspberry canes that have finished their first flush can be tied in to their supports, improving airflow as May humidity rises. Inspect the grapevine and pinch any lateral shoots crowding the main cordons to direct energy toward fruit development.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Courgette plants set out now will romp away in late-May warmth — plant at 80 cm in the row, rows 100 cm apart, into a pocket of well-rotted compost. Melon seedlings raised under cover can move to a sheltered, sunny bed at 80 cm in the row, rows 100 cm; in northern gardens, keep a cloche nearby for cool nights. Finish by picking any ripe strawberries before the day heats up — fruit gathered in the morning keeps its flavour longest.

ORCHARD : A waning gibbous moon on a fruit day — conditions long trusted for harvesting and tending fruiting plants. Check cherry trees for cracking fruit after recent rains and pick ripe cherries promptly; store in a cool spot. Raspberry canes are putting on strong growth — pinch out weak laterals to concentrate energy where it counts. Grapevine shoots getting ahead of themselves can be tipped back, keeping the canopy open and airy.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Aubergine and sweet pepper plants set out now will have the warmth they need — space aubergines 50 cm apart in rows 60 cm wide, sweet peppers 40 cm apart in rows 50 cm wide. Squash transplants can go out too, at 100 cm in the row with 150 cm between rows. Water each plant in slowly at the base to encourage roots to settle deep.

VEGETABLE PATCH : The sign changed in the early morning hours, so most of today runs as a root day under a waning gibbous moon — a fine moment for harvesting and tending root crops. Strawberries are ready for picking in the cool of the day; check rows carefully and remove any fruit showing signs of mould to keep the patch healthy. Artichokes benefit from a tidy around the base today — clear away dead lower leaves and top-dress with a thin layer of compost to feed the roots without smothering the crown. Potatoes that have been hilling up nicely can be checked: if shoulders are beginning to show through the soil, draw a little more earth over them with a draw hoe to prevent greening.

LANDSCAPING : A waning gibbous moon and the lunar apogee today mean the garden is better served by maintenance than by major interventions. Roses can be given a careful inspection — loosen any ties that have tightened as stems thickened, and clear fallen petals from the base to discourage blackspot. Lavender plants benefit from a light weeding around the crown; keep the soil open and free-draining. Wisteria ties are worth checking too, especially on vigorous new growth. In heavier soils, a light surface loosening between rows improves drainage and lets roots breathe. Mediterranean gardeners can take advantage of the dry spell to mulch the base of olive trees and fig trees, conserving moisture as summer heat builds.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Today the lunar node passes through, making this an unfavourable moment — but a genuinely useful one for the quiet, careful work that keeps a kitchen garden thriving. Run a hoe lightly between rows of lettuce and potato to break the surface crust and let air reach the roots / Spread a 5 cm layer of straw or dried grass mulch around strawberry plants to keep the fruit clean and the soil moisture locked in during warm late-May days / Check artichoke stems for any soft or damaged leaves at the base and remove them cleanly, then top-dress with a thin shovelful of compost around each crown.

LANDSCAPING : A good afternoon for stepping back and observing — notice where rose stems are crossing or rubbing and note them for a future tidy / Check clematis ties and loosen any that are beginning to bite into new growth / Lavender plants benefit from a light weeding around their base; keep the soil open and free-draining, especially on heavier ground / Wisteria that has been pruned can have its ties checked and adjusted as stems thicken quickly at this time of year.

ORCHARD : Raspberry canes are growing fast — check and loosen any ties that may restrict the cane as it swells / Currant bushes and blackcurrants can be inspected for signs of aphid distortion on the young leaves; remove affected shoot tips by hand / Grapevine foliage is dense enough now to warrant opening up the canopy a little — check ties and reposition any shoots that are shading the main fruiting wood.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Most of the day runs as a root day — a fine window for sowing and tending root crops under the waning moon. Drop carrot seeds 1 cm deep with 2 cm between seeds, in rows 25 cm apart; a sandy, stone-free soil gives the straightest roots. Beetroot can go in at 2 cm deep, seeds 5 cm apart, rows 30 cm — thin later to 10 cm once seedlings are sturdy. Turnip seeds sown 1 cm deep with 3 cm between them will germinate quickly in the warm May soil; rows 25 cm apart. If you sowed radishes a couple of weeks ago, thin them now to 3 cm in the row — overcrowded roots stay small and pithy. Water along the base of rows rather than overhead to encourage roots to push deeper. In Mediterranean gardens, a light mulch between rows will hold moisture through the heat of the day.

ORCHARD : A calm afternoon to check on soft fruit. Raspberry canes are growing fast — remove any weak or crossing shoots at the base to keep airflow good and reduce disease risk. Currant bushes and blackcurrant plants benefit from a light tidy: remove any yellowing lower leaves and check for signs of aphid clusters on shoot tips, rinsing them off with a gentle spray of water.

LANDSCAPING : After the sign change this evening, the day shifts to a flower day — a short but useful window for deadheading chrysanthemums and checking dahlia tubers that have started into growth, pinching out any weak shoots to focus energy into the strongest stems.

LANDSCAPING : The Last Quarter arrives today, and with it a flower day well suited to the ornamental garden. Sow cosmos 0.5 cm deep with seeds 3 cm apart in a sunny border — their feathery foliage will fill gaps left by spring bulbs. Nasturtium seeds can go straight into the ground, 2 cm deep and 10 cm apart; they thrive even in poor soil and reward you with weeks of edible colour. Zinnia seeds sown 0.5 cm deep with 3 cm between them germinate fast in warm May soil — choose a sheltered spot to give them a strong start.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Cut flowers for bouquets from the kitchen garden today — strawberry blossoms are best left to set fruit, but picking a few artichoke heads just as they begin to open makes a striking arrangement and encourages side shoots. Sunflower seedlings already showing two true leaves can be thinned to 40 cm apart in the row, rows 60 cm, giving each plant the light and airflow it needs to build a strong stem.

ORCHARD : Walk the fruit garden with a critical eye. Raspberry canes that have finished their first flush can have any weak or damaged laterals pinched back to redirect energy into the strongest growth. On the grapevine, rub off any secondary shoots emerging from the base of flower clusters — a clean, airy vine sets fruit far more reliably. In Mediterranean areas, fig trees may already be showing small embryo fruits; a light mulch of straw around the base will lock in moisture through the dry weeks ahead.

Before the evening change, flower day : Waning Crescent light suits gentle, purposeful work among flowering plants. Snip sweet pea stems just above a leaf node — harvesting regularly encourages the plant to push out fresh blooms rather than setting seed. French marigold seedlings started under cover a few weeks ago can be cut for small posies or pressed for drying; if you're thinning a tray, plant the strongest ones out at 25 cm in the row, rows 30 cm apart. Rose blooms at their peak are worth cutting now — take stems in the early morning, cut at a slant just above an outward-facing bud, and plunge them immediately into water for long-lasting arrangements. Strawberry blossoms are worth collecting too: a handful of open flowers picked now can be dried and used in herbal teas or as a gentle garnish.

LANDSCAPING : Wisteria has likely finished its main flush — check the long whippy shoots and pinch them back to five or six leaves to keep the framework tidy and encourage next year's flower buds to form. Lavender plants can be lightly groomed now: remove any spent early spikes and check the base for woody dieback. Hydrangea mopheads are swelling with promise; keep the soil consistently moist and lay a fresh 5 cm mulch of composted bark around each crown to lock in moisture during warm late-May days.

After the evening change, leaf day : In the final hour or so before midnight, conditions shift toward foliage — a quiet moment to water leafy plants deeply at the base and plan tomorrow's tasks around the kitchen garden.

INDOORS : Lemon tree and oleander pots can be moved gradually to their outdoor summer positions if nights stay above 10 °C — choose a sheltered, sunny wall and ease them into full sun over a week to avoid leaf scorch.

VEGETABLE PATCH : A leaf day under the Waning Crescent — a fine window for leafy crops. Sow spinach 2 cm deep with seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm; the cooling late-May nights slow bolting nicely. Swiss chard goes in at 2 cm deep, 5 cm between seeds, rows 40 cm apart — colourful stems ready in about eight weeks. Chervil tucks into a semi-shaded corner at 0.5 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, rows 25 cm. A foliar spray of diluted nettle tea over basil and parsley seedlings gives them a gentle nitrogen boost right when they need it most.

INDOORS : Celery sown under cover rewards patience — press seeds 0.3 cm into a fine tray, 2 cm between seeds, compost kept moist at around 18 °C. Harvest any parsley or mint on the windowsill by cutting stems at the base; this encourages fresh, bushy regrowth rather than leggy stems.

ORCHARD : Walk the fruit garden and remove any mummified fruit still clinging to branches — clearing this debris now breaks the cycle of fungal disease before summer heat amplifies it. Tie in the strongest new raspberry canes at 10 cm intervals along the wire.

VEGETABLE PATCH : Rocket, chives, and coriander are your best allies on this leaf day under the Waning Crescent. Press rocket seeds 0.5 cm into a finely raked bed, spacing them 2 cm apart in rows 20 cm wide — their peppery leaves will be ready to cut in under four weeks. Chives go in at 1 cm deep, seeds 2 cm apart, rows 25 cm. Coriander sown 1 cm deep, seeds 3 cm apart, rows 30 cm, germinates quickly in warm late-May soil — choose a spot with afternoon shade to slow bolting. A foliar spray of horsetail decoction over young seedlings strengthens cell walls against fungal pressure in humid weather.

ORCHARD : Run your hand along raspberry canes and remove any that look weak or crowded — good airflow now reduces botrytis risk as fruit swells. Currant bushes and blackcurrants benefit from a foliage check: pick off any leaves showing aphid colonies and drop them into a sealed bag rather than the compost.

LANDSCAPING : Wisteria has likely finished its main flush — shorten the long whippy shoots back to five or six leaves; this first summer trim encourages flower buds to form for next year.