March is an exciting time for gardeners, as it marks the beginning of spring and provides an opportunity to start sowing seeds for the upcoming growing season. Whether you have a small backyard garden or a large plot of land, there are plenty of vegetables, herbs, and flowers that can be sown in March. In this article, we will explore some of the best options for sowing in March and provide tips for successful planting.
Vegetables
March is the perfect time to start sowing a variety of vegetables that thrive in the cooler temperatures of spring. Here are some popular choices:
- Lettuce: Lettuce is a great crop to sow in March as it grows quickly and can be harvested within a few weeks. Sow seeds directly into the soil and keep the soil moist for optimal germination.
- Spinach: Spinach is another leafy green that does well in cooler temperatures. Sow seeds directly into the soil and thin out the seedlings once they have sprouted.
- Radishes: Radishes are fast-growing root vegetables that can be sown directly into the ground. They are ready to harvest in as little as 30 days, making them a great choice for impatient gardeners.
- Carrots: Carrots can be sown as early as March, but they require well-drained soil and consistent moisture. Sow seeds directly into the ground and thin out the seedlings once they start to grow.
- Potatoes: March is the time to start chitting potatoes, which involves placing them in a cool, light-filled area to encourage sprouting. Once the shoots are about 1 inch long, they can be planted in the ground.
Herbs
If you enjoy cooking with fresh herbs, March is the perfect time to start sowing herb seeds. Here are some popular choices:
- Basil: Basil is a warm-weather herb that thrives in full sun. Start sowing basil seeds indoors in March and transplant them outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.
- Parsley: Parsley is a versatile herb that can be sown directly into the ground in March. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
- Dill: Dill is an easy-to-grow herb that can be sown directly into the ground in March. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
- Chives: Chives are a perennial herb that can be sown indoors in March and transplanted outdoors once the weather warms up. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Flowers
In addition to vegetables and herbs, March is a great time to start sowing flower seeds for a beautiful garden. Here are some popular choices:
- Sweet peas: Sweet peas are fragrant flowers that can be sown directly into the ground in March. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
- Nasturtiums: Nasturtiums are colorful flowers that can be sown directly into the ground in March. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
- Marigolds: Marigolds are easy-to-grow flowers that can be sown indoors in March and transplanted outdoors once the danger of frost has passed. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
- Pansies: Pansies are cold-tolerant flowers that can be sown indoors in March and transplanted outdoors once the weather warms up. They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil.
Tips for Successful Planting in March
While March is a great time to start sowing seeds, it’s important to keep a few things in mind to ensure successful planting:
- Check your local frost dates: Before sowing seeds, check the last expected frost date in your area. Sowing seeds too early can result in poor germination or damage from frost.
- Prepare the soil: Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds and adding compost or organic matter to improve its fertility and drainage.
- Water regularly: Seedlings and young plants require consistent moisture to establish roots. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Protect from pests: Be on the lookout for pests such as slugs and snails, which can damage young seedlings. Use organic pest control methods to protect your plants.
Summary
March is an exciting time for gardeners, as it marks the beginning of spring and provides an opportunity to start sowing seeds for the upcoming growing season. Whether you’re interested in growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers, there are plenty of options to choose from. By following the tips and recommendations in this article, you can ensure successful planting and enjoy a bountiful garden in the months to come.