March is an exciting time for gardeners as the weather starts to warm up, and there are plenty of options for planting and growing. Whether you have a large garden or just a small balcony, there are many plants and vegetables that you can start growing in March. In this article, we will explore some of the best options for what to grow in March, along with tips and recommendations to ensure a successful harvest.
Leafy Greens
March is an excellent time to start growing leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach, and kale. These vegetables thrive in cool weather and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. Leafy greens are rich in nutrients and can be harvested for salads or sautéed as a side dish.
- Lettuce: Choose from a variety of lettuce types, such as butterhead, romaine, or loose-leaf. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep them evenly moist. Harvest the leaves when they reach the desired size.
- Spinach: Sow spinach seeds directly in the ground or in containers. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and water regularly. Harvest the outer leaves when they are large enough for consumption, allowing the inner leaves to continue growing.
- Kale: Start kale seeds indoors and transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up. Kale plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Harvest the outer leaves, leaving the center leaves to continue growing.
Root Vegetables
Root vegetables are another great option for planting in March. These plants grow well in cool weather and offer a variety of flavors and textures. Some popular root vegetables to consider growing in March include carrots, radishes, and beets.
- Carrots: Choose a carrot variety suitable for your region and sow the seeds directly in the ground. Carrots prefer loose, well-draining soil and regular watering. Harvest the carrots when they reach the desired size.
- Radishes: Radishes are quick-growing vegetables that can be harvested in as little as 25 days. Sow the seeds directly in the ground or in containers. Radishes prefer cool temperatures and regular watering.
- Beets: Start beet seeds indoors and transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up. Beets prefer well-draining soil and regular watering. Harvest the beets when they reach the desired size.
Herbs
Growing herbs is a great way to add flavor to your cooking while also enhancing the beauty of your garden. Many herbs can be started from seeds or purchased as small plants. In March, consider growing herbs such as basil, cilantro, and dill.
- Basil: Start basil seeds indoors and transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up. Basil plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Harvest the leaves regularly to encourage new growth.
- Cilantro: Cilantro can be grown from seeds directly in the ground or in containers. It prefers cool temperatures and well-draining soil. Harvest the leaves when they are large enough for use.
- Dill: Start dill seeds indoors and transplant them outdoors once the weather warms up. Dill plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Harvest the leaves and seeds for culinary use.
Conclusion
March is a great time to start planting and growing a variety of vegetables and herbs. Leafy greens, root vegetables, and herbs are all excellent options that can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. Remember to provide the right growing conditions for each plant, including appropriate soil, watering, and sunlight requirements. By starting your garden in March, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh and flavorful produce throughout the year.