Jobs for March
Gardening Tasks for March: Waking the Garden for Spring
March marks the true beginning of the gardening year. As daylight hours increase and temperatures slowly rise, the garden starts to wake from its winter rest. It’s a month full of preparation, early sowing, and setting the stage for the busy season ahead.
Planting & Sowing
March is perfect for sowing a wide range of seeds. Start hardy vegetables like carrots, beetroot, spinach, and broad beans outdoors if the soil is workable. Indoors or under cover, begin sowing tomatoes, peppers, and aubergines. It’s also a great time to plant onion sets, shallots, and early potatoes.
Lawn Care
As grass begins to grow again, give your lawn its first cut of the year on a dry day—keep the blades high. Rake out any moss and thatch, and consider applying a spring lawn feed to encourage healthy growth. Repair any worn or bare patches.
Borders & Beds
Cut back dead growth from perennials and ornamental grasses to make way for new shoots. Weed borders thoroughly before growth really takes off. Adding a layer of compost or mulch now will improve soil structure and help retain moisture later in the season.
Fruit & Veg
Plant fruit trees, bushes, and canes while they’re still dormant. Prune apple and pear trees if you haven’t already, and feed them to support the coming season. Start chitting seed potatoes and prepare vegetable beds by digging in organic matter.
Greenhouse & Pots
Clean and tidy the greenhouse to maximise light and reduce pests and diseases. Begin sowing seeds in trays and pots, and ensure good ventilation on sunny days. Water sparingly—plants don’t need as much at this stage.
Pruning & Maintenance
Prune roses before new growth gets too advanced, removing dead or weak stems and shaping the plant. Cut back dogwoods and willows grown for colourful stems to encourage fresh, vibrant growth next winter. Check fences, trellises, and garden structures for any winter damage.
Wildlife & General Care
As wildlife becomes more active, clean out bird boxes (if not already done) and start putting out fresh food and water. Early flowers like crocuses and primroses are vital for pollinators—consider adding more if space allows.
Final Thoughts
March is all about preparation and anticipation. A bit of effort now—clearing, feeding, and sowing—will make everything easier as the season gathers pace.
There’s a real sense of renewal in the garden this month. Get outside when you can, enjoy those first signs of spring, and set your garden up for a successful year ahead.