Table of Contents
As winter fades and the days grow longer, March is the perfect time to start planning your spring garden. Creating a bloom calendar helps you know what to plant and when, ensuring a vibrant and colorful garden by the time spring fully arrives.
Understanding Your Climate Zone
Before selecting plants, determine your USDA hardiness zone. This information guides you on which plants are suitable for your area and when they are most likely to thrive.
Early March Planting Tips
In early March, focus on starting seeds indoors for plants like tomatoes, peppers, and annual flowers such as petunias and marigolds. This gives them a head start before transplanting outdoors later in the season.
Indoor Seed Starting
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Celery
- Eggplants
Preparing Garden Beds
- Clear debris and weeds
- Amend soil with compost
- Plan your layout for early and late bloomers
Mid-March Planting Activities
By mid-March, soil temperatures may be suitable for direct sowing of hardy vegetables and flowers. Additionally, transplant seedlings started indoors once they have grown strong enough.
Direct Sowing
- Peas
- Spinach
- Lettuce
- Radishes
- Carrots
Transplanting Seedlings
- Tomatoes
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
Late March Blooming Plants
As the weather warms, plant hardy perennials and bulbs that will bloom in early spring. This includes crocuses, daffodils, and tulips, which often start appearing in late March.
Planting Bulbs
- Crocuses
- Daffodils
- Tulips
- Hyacinths
General Tips for March Gardening
Monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to protect young plants from late frosts. Use row covers or cloches to shield tender plants during unexpected cold snaps. Consistent watering and soil care are essential to promote healthy growth.
Conclusion
March is a busy month for gardeners eager to enjoy the fruits of their labor in spring. By understanding what to plant and when, you can create a vibrant, thriving garden that blooms beautifully throughout the season. Happy gardening!