Seeds to Sow in March: Best Varieties for Spring Success

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March is a crucial month for gardeners eager to prepare for a vibrant and productive spring. Choosing the right seeds to sow now can set the foundation for a bountiful harvest. This guide highlights the best varieties to plant in March, ensuring a successful start to your gardening season.

Why Sow Seeds in March?

Sowing seeds in March allows plants to establish strong roots before the warmer months. It also gives gardeners a head start, especially in regions with shorter growing seasons. Early planting can lead to earlier harvests and a wider variety of crops.

Best Vegetables to Sow in March

  • Peas: Varieties like ‘Green Arrow’ and ‘Sugar Snap’ thrive when sown early. They prefer cooler weather and can be directly sown outdoors.
  • Carrots: ‘Nantes’ and ‘Chantenay’ are excellent choices for March planting in milder climates.
  • Lettuce: Leaf varieties such as ‘Lollo Rosso’ and ‘Romaine’ can be started indoors or outdoors.
  • Radishes: Quick to mature, radishes like ‘Cherry Belle’ can be sown directly into the soil.
  • Spinach: ‘Bloomsdale’ and ‘Baby Leaf’ are hardy and can be sown early for a spring harvest.

Best Herbs to Sow in March

  • Basil: Start indoors in pots to transplant later when the weather warms.
  • Cilantro: Sow directly outdoors for fresh leaves throughout spring.
  • Parsley: Both flat-leaf and curly varieties can be started indoors or outdoors.
  • Chives: Hardy and easy to grow, chives can be sown directly into the garden.

Tips for Successful March Planting

To maximize success when sowing in March, consider the following tips:

  • Choose the right location: Ensure your garden has good drainage and receives adequate sunlight.
  • Prepare the soil: Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to promote healthy growth.
  • Start indoors: For tender plants like basil and tomatoes, start seeds indoors to protect them from late frosts.
  • Use protection: Cover outdoor sown seeds with cloches or row covers if frost is expected.
  • Water carefully: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to encourage healthy germination.

Conclusion

Sowing the right seeds in March sets the stage for a successful gardening season. By selecting suitable varieties and following best practices, gardeners can enjoy fresh vegetables and herbs throughout spring and into summer. Happy planting!