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As winter wanes and spring approaches, March is the perfect time to prepare your garden for the growing season. A well-planned gardening schedule can lead to a bountiful harvest and a vibrant landscape. Here’s a comprehensive March gardening checklist to help you stay on track.
What to Plant in March
- Cool-season vegetables: Lettuce, spinach, radishes, peas, and broccoli can be started early indoors or directly sowed outdoors if the soil is workable.
- Herbs: Parsley, chives, and cilantro can be started indoors or outdoors in mild climates.
- Flowers: Pansies, violas, and primroses add color early and can be planted in garden beds or containers.
- Succulents and cacti: These can be moved outdoors once the weather warms.
Pruning Tasks for March
- Deciduous trees and shrubs: Prune dead or damaged branches to promote healthy growth.
- Fruit trees: Remove any winter damage and thin out branches to improve air circulation.
- Perennials: Cut back dead foliage to prepare for new growth.
- Rose bushes: Prune to shape and remove any winter dieback.
Harvesting and Maintenance
- Start harvesting: Early greens like lettuce and spinach can be harvested as soon as they are large enough.
- Soil preparation: Add compost and organic matter to enrich the soil for planting.
- Mulching: Apply mulch around beds to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Tool maintenance: Sharpen and clean garden tools in preparation for the busy growing season.
Additional Tips for a Successful March Garden
Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to protect tender plants from late frosts. Using row covers or cloches can help safeguard your early plantings. Regular watering, especially as the weather warms, will ensure healthy growth. Lastly, plan your garden layout and consider crop rotation to maintain soil health and prevent pests.