March Gardening: Embrace the Awakening of Spring

As winter's grip starts to loosen and the first whispers of spring become audible, March marks a transitional phase in the gardener's calendar. The gradual lengthening of days and warmer temperatures make it an exciting time to be out in the garden. From prepping soil to sowing a diverse array of seeds, there's plenty to keep garden enthusiasts busy. Here's a rundown of essential gardening tasks for March and the seeds to consider sowing this month.

Gardening Tasks for March:

General Maintenance:

• Soil Prep: Begin by digging over beds, breaking down large clods of earth and removing any stubborn weeds. Work in well-rotted compost or manure to enrich the soil.
• Pest Patrol: Keep an eye out for slugs and snails, especially around new shoots. Consider using natural deterrents or barriers.
• Support Structures: Install trellises, stakes, and other support structures for plants that'll need them as they grow.

Greenhouse Tasks:

• Ventilation: Ensure greenhouses are well-ventilated on warm days to prevent mold and fungus growth.
• Spring Cleaning: Disinfect the greenhouse, removing any lingering pests or diseases from the previous year.

Lawn Care:

• Mowing: If the ground isn't too wet, give your lawn its first light mow of the year.
• Aeration: Use a garden fork or aerator to make holes in the lawn, improving drainage and airflow.

Seeds to Sow in March:

Vegetables:

• Root Veggies: Begin sowing carrots, beetroot, and turnips directly into prepared beds.
• Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and lettuces can be sown under cloches or in a cold frame.
• Peas and Beans: Start off broad beans and early varieties of peas in pots or direct sow in well-drained soil.

Flowers:

• Bright Blooms: Marigolds, petunias, and cosmos seeds can be sown in seed trays indoors.
• Perennials: March is suitable for sowing perennial seeds like delphiniums, lupins, and echinacea.

Herbs:

• Begin sowing basil, parsley, chives, and coriander in pots indoors, ready for transplanting outdoors in late spring.

March is a month of optimism and preparation in the gardening world. As new life begins to sprout, make sure to nurture its growth, laying the foundations for a flourishing garden throughout the year. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, embrace the joys of sowing and growing this March. Happy gardening!