March Planting Calendar: What to Start Indoors This Month

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March marks the beginning of spring in many regions, making it an ideal time to start planting indoors. Starting your seedlings early gives them a head start before the outdoor planting season begins. This guide will help you determine what to start indoors this month to ensure a lush and productive garden.

Why Start Plants Indoors in March?

Starting plants indoors in March allows you to control the environment, providing optimal conditions for germination and early growth. It extends your growing season, especially in areas with short growing periods. Indoor starting also reduces the risk of pests and diseases that can damage young plants.

Best Plants to Start Indoors in March

  • Tomatoes: Require a long growing season and thrive when started indoors early.
  • Peppers: Need warm soil and air, making indoor starting ideal.
  • Basil and other herbs: Grow quickly indoors and can be transplanted outside later.
  • Broccoli and Cauliflower: Prefer to be started indoors to develop strong seedlings.
  • Eggplants: Need a warm environment, best started indoors in early spring.
  • Cabbage and Lettuce: Can be started indoors for an early harvest.

Indoor Starting Tips

To ensure successful indoor planting, follow these tips:

  • Use quality seed-starting soil: Provides good drainage and nutrients.
  • Provide adequate light: Use grow lights or place seedlings near south-facing windows.
  • Maintain proper temperature: Most seedlings prefer 65-75°F (18-24°C).
  • Water carefully: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  • Harden off seedlings: Gradually introduce them to outdoor conditions before transplanting.

Transplanting Outdoors

Wait until the danger of frost has passed in your area before transplanting seedlings outdoors. Harden off your plants over a week by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. This process helps prevent shock and ensures healthy establishment in your garden.

Conclusion

Starting plants indoors in March sets the stage for a successful gardening season. Focus on the right crops, provide optimal conditions, and carefully transplant when the time is right. Happy planting!