As March arrives, signaling the early whispers of spring, the anticipation in the air is palpable for garden enthusiasts. This month presents a plethora of choices for planting, marking a pivotal moment when the gardening routine shifts into higher gear. The landscape slowly awakens, with plants and flowers starting their vibrant journey towards full bloom.
With the days stretching longer, the focus sharpens on the upcoming growing season and the warm summer months that follow. It’s a time brimming with activity, from selecting the right seeds to sow, to meticulously planning your garden’s layout. This period encourages you to ponder deeply about your garden’s future appearance and the varieties that will best complement your vision.
Consider the vast array of vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs that can be started in March. This is the moment to map out your garden, integrating both aesthetics and functionality into your plans. Whether you aim to cultivate a bountiful vegetable garden, a fragrant haven of herbs, or a kaleidoscope of flowers, March offers the perfect starting line. Your choices now lay the foundation for a garden that will not only thrive but also mirror your aspirations for the coming months. Additionally, explore what to plant in March to make informed decisions and ensure a successful and diverse garden.
Vegetables to Plant in March
The waning influence of winter, yielding to the tender warmth of early spring, positions March as a pivotal month for gardeners. This period not only symbolizes the beginning of the gardening season but also offers a wide canvas for planting a diverse range of vegetables. Each vegetable selected for planting during this transitional month brings with it unique characteristics, flavors, and nutritional benefits, enriching both the garden and the gardener’s table.
The Crunchy Delight of Carrots
Embarking on the carrot planting journey in March sets the stage for a rewarding harvest of this crunchy delight. Carrots, revered for their sweetness and crunch, find the cool embrace of early spring soil to their liking.
The key to cultivating a successful crop lies in ensuring the soil is loose and sandy, allowing for deep, unimpeded root growth. Thin the seedlings to prevent overcrowding, and you’ll be rewarded with carrots that are perfect for snacking, roasting, or incorporating into a variety of dishes. Beyond their taste, carrots are a boon for health, packed with beta-carotene, fibers, vitamins, and minerals, making them a worthy addition to any garden.
Beets
Beets stand out as a dual-purpose crop, offering both deliciously sweet roots and nutrient-rich greens. Planting beets in March takes advantage of the cool soil temperatures, encouraging strong and healthy root development. These vibrant vegetables are not just about their edible roots; their greens can be harvested and enjoyed in salads or as a cooked green, offering a double harvest from a single planting. Beets are adaptable to various soil types but prefer well-draining conditions and a sunny location to flourish. Their ease of growth, combined with their dietary benefits—rich in fiber, folate, and vitamin C—makes them an attractive choice for gardeners looking to maximize their garden’s yield.
Peas
The act of planting peas as March arrives is a testament to the gardener’s anticipation of spring. These legumes thrive in the cooler temperatures that the month brings, with varieties such as snap, shell, and snow peas each offering unique tastes and textures.
Peas are not just a tasty addition to the garden; they also play a crucial role in enriching the soil with nitrogen, a vital nutrient for subsequent crops. Providing support for these climbers ensures a healthy yield of pods ready for picking. The joy of harvesting fresh peas straight from the garden, combined with their nutritional benefits, including high levels of protein and vitamins, makes them a must-plant vegetable in March.
Spinach
The versatility and rapid growth of spinach make it an ideal candidate for early spring planting. This leafy green adapts well to the cool March weather, quickly producing tender leaves perfect for fresh salads or more mature leaves suitable for cooking. Spinach’s preference for rich, fertile soil and its need for consistent moisture underscore the importance of garden preparation. The nutritional profile of spinach is impressive, offering a rich source of iron, magnesium, and vitamins A and C, making it a powerhouse of health that can be easily incorporated into daily meals.
Lettuce
Lettuce, with its myriad varieties and textures, germinates quickly in the moist soil of early spring, establishing itself as a staple for fresh, home-grown salads. The ease of growing lettuce, combined with its preference for cooler temperatures, makes it a rewarding choice for early planting. Succession planting can extend the harvest period, ensuring a steady supply of fresh lettuce. From crisp romaine to tender butterhead, each variety adds a unique flavor and texture to the garden and the table. Lettuce is not only versatile in the kitchen but also light on calories, making it a perfect crop for health-conscious gardeners.
Kale
Kale, a garden favorite for its nutritional value and ease of growth, thrives in the early spring climate. Its ability to withstand cooler temperatures and even improve in flavor after a frost makes it a resilient choice for March planting. Kale’s versatility extends beyond the garden; it can be used in a wide array of culinary applications, from fresh salads to hearty soups. The plant’s rich nutritional content, including high levels of vitamins K, A, and C, along with antioxidants and fiber, underscores its superfood status.
Frequent harvesting of kale encourages continued growth, allowing gardeners to reap the benefits of this nutritious vegetable throughout the growing season.
Radishes
Radishes epitomize the joy of quick gardening results. These peppery, crunchy vegetables can go from seed to plate in as little as three weeks, offering an almost instant gratification for the gardener’s efforts. Ideal for intercropping with slower-growing vegetables, radishes can act as a natural marker, optimizing garden space and enhancing soil quality. Their ease of growth, requiring only well-drained soil and consistent moisture, makes them a favorite among both novice and experienced gardeners. Radishes not only add a spicy kick to meals but also bring health benefits, including vitamin C and potassium, making them a quick and healthy crop to grow in March.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard, with its strikingly colored stems and nutritious leaves, brings both beauty and utility to the March garden. This leafy green is as ornamental as it is edible, thriving under a wide range of temperatures and capable of providing harvests throughout the growing season.
The key to successful Swiss chard cultivation lies in planting it in well-drained soil with ample sunlight, ensuring its vibrant leaves and stems reach their full potential.Swiss chard is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the body, packed with vitamins K, A, and C, along with minerals like magnesium and iron. Its mild, earthy flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen, perfect for enriching a variety of dishes with color and nutrition.
Fruits to Plant in March
As March ushers in the first true hints of spring, it’s an ideal time to start thinking about the sweet and juicy rewards that fruit plants can bring. Planning and planting certain fruits during this month not only sets the foundation for a fruitful harvest but also infuses the garden with diversity and beauty. From the delicate blossoms of fruit trees to the sprawling vines of berry bushes, the choices available can cater to a wide range of climates and spaces. Here’s a detailed exploration of fruits that are perfectly suited for planting as the season changes.
Strawberries
Planting strawberries in March is akin to laying down the red carpet for summer. These beloved berries can be planted as bare-root crowns in well-drained, fertile soil, preferably in a spot that receives ample sunlight. Strawberriey plants prefer slightly acidic soil, and mulching with straw can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the berries clean. With proper care, including regular watering and the removal of runners for the first year, you’ll encourage a stronger, more productive plant.
Strawberries not only promise a deliciously sweet harvest but also bring a burst of beauty to the garden with their white blossoms and vibrant red fruit.
Raspberries
Raspberries, with their robust nature and perennial growth, are a great addition to the early spring garden. Choosing a sunny location with well-drained soil can significantly enhance their yield and health.
Raspberries can be planted as canes and will require some support as they grow, such as a trellis or fence. They come in two main types: summer-bearing and everbearing, each with its unique harvesting schedule. Providing mulch and ensuring proper spacing will help in maintaining moisture levels and reducing disease risk. Raspberries not only offer a deliciously tart flavor but are also rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
Blueberries
March is an excellent time to plant blueberry bushes, which thrive in acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Planting them in well-draining soil, possibly in raised beds or containers if necessary, can provide the conditions they need to flourish.
Blueberries require cross-pollination for optimal fruit production, so planting multiple varieties can enhance yield. These bushes not only produce deliciously sweet and nutritious berries but also add to the garden’s aesthetic with their delicate white or pink flowers in spring and fiery foliage in fall.
Apples
Apple trees can be a rewarding long-term addition to your garden if planted in March. Selecting a sunny spot and ensuring good air circulation will promote healthy growth and a bountiful harvest. Apple trees require cross-pollination, so planting at least two different varieties is essential for fruit production. Staking young trees and providing regular watering will help establish a strong root system.
Apples offer a range of uses, from fresh eating to baking, and their blossoms provide early spring beauty and fragrance.
Pears
Pear trees, known for their elegant form and delicious fruit, can also be planted in early spring. They thrive in well-drained soil and benefit from full sun exposure. Like apples, pears require cross-pollination, so consider planting more than one variety. Pears are relatively low maintenance but monitoring for pests and diseases is crucial for a healthy harvest. Their sweet, juicy fruits are versatile in the kitchen, and the trees add a stately presence to any garden.
Plums
Planting plum trees in March sets the stage for a summer of juicy, sweet fruits. Plums do well in well-drained soil and require full sun for the best fruit production. They come in many varieties, including those that are self-pollinating and those that require a pollinator, so choose according to your garden space and needs. Plums are not only delicious but also offer a beautiful spring display with their blossoms.
Cherries
Cherry trees are another excellent fruit to plant in March, offering both stunning spring blossoms and delicious summer fruit. They require well-drained soil and a sunny location to thrive. There are two main types of cherry trees—sweet cherries and sour cherries—with sweet varieties generally requiring a pollinator. Cherries are high in antioxidants and provide a vibrant addition to desserts, preserves, or simply fresh off the tree.
Each of these fruits, when planted in March, begins a cycle of growth that leads to delicious harvests and beautiful garden scenes. Whether you’re looking to add a few berry bushes or establish a small orchard, the early spring is a time of promise and potential for fruitful endeavors.
Trees to Plant in March
March is an opportune time to plant a variety of trees, setting the stage for growth and development throughout the warmer months. Planting trees during this time can take advantage of the moist soil conditions, giving roots a chance to establish before the heat of summer sets in. From the majestic shade providers to the ornamental beauties, trees planted now can offer environmental benefits, aesthetic appeal, and even contribute to biodiversity. Here’s a look at several trees that are ideal for planting in early spring.
Maple Trees
Maple trees are renowned for their vibrant fall colors and the cool shade they provide in summer. Planting maples in March allows their roots to establish in cooler temperatures, setting them up for success in the growing season. These trees come in various sizes and types, including the smaller Japanese Maple, which is perfect for ornamental purposes, and the larger Sugar Maple, known for its spectacular autumn display. Maples are hardy and adaptable, requiring minimal care once established, making them an excellent choice for both new and experienced gardeners.
Evergreen Trees
Planting evergreen trees in March is an excellent way to ensure privacy and maintain year-round greenery in your landscape. Evergreens like blue spruce trees, fir, and pine grow well in a variety of climates and soil types, offering options for nearly every garden. These trees are crucial for windbreaks, privacy screens, and as habitat for wildlife. When planting, consider the mature size of the tree to ensure it has enough space to grow both upwards and outwards.
Willow Trees
Willow trees are known for their elegant, drooping form and love of water. Planting willows in March, especially in moist or waterside locations, can create stunning natural features. Willows are fast-growing and can quickly provide shade and habitat for wildlife. Their ability to thrive in wet conditions also makes them useful for soil erosion control. Willows require ample space to grow and can be a dramatic addition to the landscape with their unique form and movement.
Planting trees in March is a rewarding endeavor that contributes to the environment, enhances the beauty of landscapes, and can offer shade, privacy, and even fruits for years to come. Whether you’re drawn to the aesthetic appeal of flowering ornamentals, the robust stature of shade trees, or the practical benefits of fruit and evergreen trees, early spring is an excellent time to start planting.
Flowers to Plant in March
March presents a unique window of opportunity for gardeners to begin planting a wide array of flowers. This early spring month is an ideal time to lay the groundwork for a garden that will be ablaze with color and life throughout the warmer months. From the first bulbs of spring to the perennials that will grace your garden year after year, planting flowers in March is a delightful way to welcome the coming seasons. Here’s an exploration of flowers perfectly suited for this transitional time.
Daffodils
Daffodils, with their bright yellow blooms, are synonymous with spring’s arrival. Planting daffodil bulbs in areas where late frosts are mild can lead to early spring blossoms. These hardy flowers prefer well-drained soil and can thrive in both sun and partial shade. Daffodils are perfect for borders, under trees, or in naturalized areas of the garden, where they can create stunning carpets of color. Not only are they beautiful, but daffodils are also resistant to most pests and diseases, making them a worry-free choice for gardeners.
Tulips
Tulips offer a breathtaking range of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them a favorite among gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their spring garden. While traditionally planted in the fall, tulips can be planted in pots in March in regions with milder climates and then transferred outdoors as the weather warms. They prefer well-drained, fertile soil and a sunny location. With proper care, tulips can provide a spectacular display, especially when planted in large groups or rows.
Pansies
Pansies are ideal for adding color to the garden in March, as they can withstand cooler temperatures and even a light frost. These cheerful flowers come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them versatile for garden beds, containers, or as edging. Pansies prefer a sunny to partly sunny location and rich, well-draining soil. Regular deadheading will encourage them to produce more flowers, extending their blooming period well into spring.
Primroses
Primroses are one of the first flowers to bloom in early spring, offering a range of colors to brighten up the garden. They thrive in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, making them perfect for woodland gardens or shaded borders. Primroses can be planted in March to enjoy their vibrant blooms and sweet fragrance. These perennial flowers will return year after year, slowly spreading and creating a more lush display over time.
Crocuses
Crocuses are tiny yet vibrant flowers that can peek through the last snows of winter, signaling the imminent arrival of spring. Planting crocus bulbs in March can lead to a delightful surprise, as these flowers are among the first to bloom. Crocuses prefer sunny spots and well-drained soil and can be planted in lawns, under trees, or in rock gardens for a naturalized effect. Their ability to multiply over the years makes them an excellent investment for any garden.
Hyacinths
Hyacinths bring not only visual beauty to the spring garden but also a captivating fragrance. These flowers can be planted in March, especially in pots or containers in milder climates, to be enjoyed outdoors as the weather warms. Hyacinths prefer a sunny location and well-drained soil. Their dense spikes of flowers come in a variety of colors, and when planted in groups, they create an aromatic and colorful display that’s hard to miss.
Planting flowers in March is a joyful way to anticipate the seasons ahead, offering a palette of colors, textures, and fragrances to enjoy. Whether you’re planting bulbs, perennials, or annuals, the early spring garden promises a revival of life and beauty, setting the stage for months of floral splendor.
