March in the garden
March is when the gardening year really begins to gather pace. Temperatures start climbing, daylight increases and plants suddenly seem to wake up.
Here are 10 jobs worth tackling this month.
1. Start Mowing the Lawn
If the grass has started growing and conditions are dry enough, give the lawn its first cut.
Set the mower fairly high and only remove a small amount of growth.
2. Plant Early Potatoes
Early potatoes can begin going into prepared ground or containers when conditions are suitable.
Protect emerging shoots if frost is forecast.
3. Sow Hardy Vegetables
Depending on your local conditions, crops such as peas, broad beans, carrots and beetroot can begin to be sown.
Gardeners in colder areas may need to wait a little longer.
4. Deal With Weeds Early
Weeds are starting to grow too. Removing them while they’re small is much easier than tackling established weeds later.
5. Mulch Borders
Apply compost, well-rotted organic matter or another suitable mulch around established plants while the soil is moist.
6. Plant Summer-Flowering Bulbs
Start planting summer bulbs according to the requirements of the individual variety.
Tender types may need to be started somewhere protected.
7. Divide Perennials
Many established perennials can be lifted and divided before they put on too much new growth.
8. Protect New Shoots From Slugs
Young shoots are particularly attractive to slugs and snails. Check vulnerable plants regularly and use your preferred control method.
9. Clean Up Containers
Remove dead material from pots, replace tired compost where appropriate and prepare containers for spring planting.
10. Watch the Weather
March sunshine can fool you into thinking winter is over. In much of the UK, frost remains a very real possibility.
Keep fleece handy and don’t rush tender plants outdoors.
The Gardening Year Begins
March is an exciting month. Get the groundwork done now and your garden will be ready to take advantage of the warmer months ahead.
Gardeners Guide — Grow Better. Garden Smarter.
