March’s Top Herbal Harvests: What You Can Grow in Zone 8

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March marks the beginning of spring for gardeners in Zone 8, a region known for its mild winters and warm summers. This is an ideal time to start planting herbs that will flourish throughout the growing season. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, understanding which herbs thrive in March can help you maximize your garden’s productivity.

Herbs to Plant in March in Zone 8

  • Basil: A warm-weather favorite, basil can be started indoors or sown directly into the garden once the soil warms up. It loves full sun and well-drained soil.
  • Cilantro: This herb prefers cooler temperatures and can be sown directly outdoors. It grows quickly and can be harvested in about 3-4 weeks.
  • Parsley: Parsley is hardy and can be started early indoors or directly sown outside. It prefers moist, rich soil and partial shade.
  • Chives: Chives are very hardy and can be planted early in March. They require minimal maintenance and can be harvested repeatedly.
  • Mint: Mint is invasive but easy to grow. It can be started from cuttings or divisions and prefers partial shade and moist soil.

Herbs to Start Indoors

  • Oregano: Start oregano indoors to get a head start on the season. Transplant outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.
  • Thyme: Like oregano, thyme can be started indoors and transplanted outside later in March.
  • Rosemary: Rosemary prefers warm conditions, so starting indoors ensures healthy growth before transplanting.

Tips for Growing Herbs in Zone 8

To ensure a successful herb garden in March, consider the following tips:

  • Prepare your soil by enriching it with compost to provide essential nutrients.
  • Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
  • Water herbs consistently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
  • Mulch around your herbs to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Start herbs indoors if the weather is still unpredictable or if frost warnings are present.

Conclusion

March is an exciting month for herb gardeners in Zone 8. With the right selection of herbs and proper care, you can enjoy fresh, flavorful herbs throughout the growing season. Happy planting!