March is perfect for digging over flower beds and vegetable plots, breaking up compacted soil, and incorporating organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure. You can plant summer-flowering bulbs such as lilies and dahlias in pots or borders, ensuring they are protected from late frosts. Early potatoes can be planted in trenches or large tubs, depending on space. Hardy vegetables like peas, carrots, and spinach can be sown directly outdoors, while tender crops like tomatoes, peppers, and aubergines should be started indoors or in a greenhouse.
Pruning and Tidying
March is a good time to prune shrubs, trees, and climbers, including roses, by removing dead or weak growth to encourage healthy blooms. Early flowering shrubs, such as forsythia, can be lightly pruned after flowering. Perennials should be tidied by removing old stems and leaves to make way for new growth.
Fertilizing and Mulching
Apply a balanced fertilizer to emerging plants to boost growth as they come out of dormancy. Adding a layer of mulch around plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.
Seed Starting and Greenhouse Care
March is ideal for starting seeds indoors or in a greenhouse, including flowers like sweet peas and marigolds for summer displays. Open greenhouse vents on sunny days to prevent humidity buildup and check houseplants for dust and water needs as temperatures rise.
Wildlife Support
As birds begin nesting, put up bird boxes and keep feeders stocked with seeds and suet to support local wildlife. You can also place bug boxes or bundles of hollow stems in sheltered corners to encourage beneficial insects to lay eggs.
Additional Tips
Weeding: Remove established and newly germinating weeds from borders.
Slug protection: Place slug barriers around vulnerable perennials like hostas.
Planning: Use this time to plan new garden beds or raised vegetable beds, considering sun exposure and soil quality.
By tackling these tasks in March, you set a strong foundation for a healthy, vibrant garden throughout spring and summer.
