As winter gradually fades away and the first signs of spring emerge, the gardening season bursts into life with endless possibilities. March, a month synonymous with new beginnings and revitalization, brings a wave of excitement for gardeners in the northern hemisphere. With the promise of warmer temperatures and longer days, it’s time to get your hands in the soil and embrace the joy of planting.
Whether you have a sprawling garden or a small balcony, March offers an opportune time to sow seeds, transplant seedlings, and embark on a vibrant gardening journey.
On this page, we will explore a diverse array of plants that thrive when planted in March, allowing you to harness the energy of the season and cultivate a flourishing oasis. Join us as we delve into the wonders of March planting, guiding you toward a bountiful and beautiful garden that will delight your senses throughout the year.
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What to Plant Indoors in March
In the northern hemisphere, March marks the transition from winter to spring, and it’s an exciting time to start sowing seeds and growing plants indoors in preparation for the upcoming growing season. Here are some plants you can consider planting indoors in March:
Tomatoes: Start tomato seeds indoors in March to give them a head start before transplanting them outdoors when the weather warms up. Choose from a variety of tomato types, from cherry tomatoes to larger beefsteak varieties.
Peppers: Peppers, including bell peppers, chili peppers, and sweet peppers, can be started from seeds indoors in March. They require warmth and a longer growing season, making early indoor planting essential.
Eggplants: Eggplants thrive when started indoors in March. Sow seeds in pots or seed trays, and transplant the seedlings outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.
Herbs: Start a herb garden indoors by planting seeds or transplanting seedlings of popular herbs like Basil, Parsley, Cilantro, and Mint. They will provide fresh flavors for your culinary adventures.
Cucumbers: Cucumbers can be started from seeds indoors in March. Give them a head start to develop strong vines and ensure a bountiful harvest during the summer months.
Lettuce and Salad Greens: Sow lettuce seeds indoors for an early harvest of fresh, homegrown salad greens. Opt for a variety of lettuce types, such as romaine, butterhead, and mesclun mix.
Spinach: Spinach is a cool-season crop that thrives in early spring. Start spinach seeds indoors and enjoy nutritious leaves for salads and cooking.
Microgreens: Microgreens are nutrient-rich young greens harvested at an early stage. Sow seeds of radishes, broccoli, kale, or other varieties indoors for quick and flavorful indoor crops.
Strawberries: Start strawberries from seeds or purchase young strawberry plants to grow indoors in containers. They can be a delightful addition to your indoor garden and provide fresh berries.
Annual Flowers: Start seeds of annual flowers indoors in March, such as marigolds, zinnias, petunias, and snapdragons. They can be later transplanted outdoors to add color and beauty to your garden.
Remember to provide adequate light, warmth, and proper care for your indoor plants. Use seed-starting trays or small pots with well-draining soil. Consider using grow lights if natural light is limited. By starting your plants indoors in March, you’ll give them a head start and enjoy an abundant and vibrant garden once the outdoor growing season arrives.
What to Plant Outdoors in March
In the northern hemisphere, March marks the transition from winter to spring, and it’s an exciting time to start planting outdoors as the weather begins to warm up. While the specific planting options may vary depending on your climate zone and local conditions, here are some plants that are typically suitable for outdoor planting in March:
Cool-Season Vegetables: Many cool-season vegetables can be directly sown or transplanted outdoors in March. This includes crops like lettuce, spinach, kale, radishes, carrots, peas, and broccoli. These vegetables thrive in cooler temperatures and will provide an early harvest.
Potatoes: March is a good time to plant potatoes in the ground or in containers. Choose seed potatoes and plant them in well-drained soil to grow your own fresh tubers.
Onions and Shallots: Onions and shallots can be planted outdoors in March. Choose sets or young plants to transplant into the soil, and they will continue to grow throughout the spring and summer.
Asparagus: Asparagus crowns can be planted in March. These perennial plants require a few years to establish, so early planting will lead to future harvests.
Rhubarb: Rhubarb crowns can be planted in March. They are hardy plants that enjoy cooler temperatures and will develop into productive plants over time.
Strawberries: March is a great time to plant strawberry crowns or young plants in the ground or containers. They will establish their roots and produce sweet berries later in the season.
Spring Bulbs: March is still a suitable time to plant spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and crocuses. Choose bulbs that are healthy and firm, and plant them at the appropriate depth for a colorful display in the coming months.
Perennials: Depending on your specific region and climate, certain perennial flowers and plants can be planted in March. These include hardy perennials like daylilies, hostas, coneflowers, and irises.
Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes: In regions with milder climates, March can be a good time to plant fruit trees, such as apple, pear, or cherry trees. Additionally, berry bushes like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries can be planted in well-prepared soil.
It’s important to consider your local climate and specific planting recommendations for your area. Some regions may still experience frost or cold spells in March, so taking necessary precautions, such as using row covers or providing frost protection, may be required.
Consulting with local gardening resources, extension services, or experienced gardeners in your area can provide valuable insights and guidance for successful outdoor planting in March.
Looking for a Different Month?
Do you want to learn what to plant indoors and outdoors in a different month?
Month by month guide for planting indoors and outdoors in February.
Month by month guide for planting indoors and outdoors in April.