March Garden Preview: The Awakening Begins

If February is the month of anticipation, March is the month of action. In most climates, this is the bridge between the “indoor season” and the “outdoor season.” The soil begins to warm, the days grow significantly longer, and the first hardy crops finally hit the ground.

While it can still be cold and snowy in many regions, the momentum of the garden is now unstoppable. Here is what you should prepare for as we head into March.

The Peak of Seed Starting

For many gardeners, March is the busiest month for indoor seed starting. This is the critical window for crops that need a 6-to-8-week head start before the last frost.

What to start in March:

• Tomatoes: The crown jewel of the home garden. Start them indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost.
• Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale for spring transplanting.
• Herbs: Basil (needs warmth), parsley, and cilantro.
• Flowers: Zinnias, cosmos, and marigolds for early summer color.

Pro Tip: If your seedlings are leaning toward the window, they need more light. Adjust your grow lights to be just 2-3 inches above the tops of the plants to keep them stocky and strong.

Moving Outdoors: The First Plantings

As soon as the soil can be worked (meaning it’s not frozen or a muddy mess), you can begin direct-sowing the hardiest crops.

What to plant outside in March:

• Peas: The classic early-spring crop. Plant them as soon as the soil is workable.
• Radishes and Spinach: These love the cool, moist soil of early spring.
• Onion sets and Garlic: If you didn’t get your garlic in last fall, early March is your last chance for a decent harvest.
• Potatoes: In many zones, St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) is the traditional date for planting potatoes.

The Arrival of Spring Color

March is when the garden’s visual palette begins to shift from brown and grey to vibrant color.

• Daffodils and Tulips: Depending on your zone, these will begin their spectacular show.
• Hellebores: Also known as Lenten Roses, these are at their peak in March.
• Spring Flowering Trees: Magnolia, ornamental cherry, and serviceberry will begin to bud and bloom toward the end of the month.

Maintenance and Cleanup

Before the “big push” of April, use March to handle the remaining heavy lifting:

• Edge your beds: Crisp edges make even an unplanted garden look professional.
• Apply Mulch: Once the soil has warmed slightly but before perennials have fully emerged, apply a fresh layer of mulch to suppress weeds.
• Final Pruning: Complete any dormant pruning of fruit trees or summer-blooming shrubs before the sap starts running and buds break.

Preparing Your Garden Design

If you’ve been using the winter months to rethink your garden layout, March is the time to finalize those plans. Whether you’re adding new raised beds or redesigning a perennial border, having a clear plan ensures you don’t waste time when planting season arrives.

Gardenly  can help you visualize these changes before you pick up a shovel. Use our AI tools to see how your new designs will look in your actual space, ensuring a beautiful and productive result.

The awakening is coming. Get your seeds ready, sharpen your tools, and prepare for the busiest—and best—time of the year.