If you didn’t get the chance to plant your spring-flowering bulbs earlier in the season, don’t worry—you can still get them in the ground in March for a beautiful spring display. March is a great time to plant bulbs that will bloom later in the season, giving your garden a burst of color when warmer weather arrives. With a little care and the right timing, you can still enjoy vibrant flowers like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
Planting in March gives you the chance to enjoy a variety of spring flowers, even if you’re starting a bit later than usual. Many bulbs actually do well when planted at this time because the soil is warming up and the days are getting longer, giving your flowers the perfect conditions to sprout and bloom. So, if you’re looking to add a splash of color to your garden, March is the perfect time to start planting these spring beauties.
Tulips are iconic spring bloomers that bring vibrant colors to any garden. Their adaptability makes them a favorite among gardeners. Planting them in March is still feasible, as long as the ground isn’t frozen. Ensure they receive plenty of sunlight and are planted in well-drained soil.
Water them lightly after planting, and soon, you’ll witness their sturdy green stems reaching upward, bearing delicate flowers. Choose from a variety of colors and shapes, each adding its unique flair to your garden landscape. Tulips not only beautify but also signal the joyous arrival of spring.
Daffodils
Daffodils herald the onset of spring with their cheerful yellow blooms. Known for their hardiness, they can be planted in March where late frosts are not a concern. These bulbs prefer well-drained soil and a sunny location.
Once planted, minimal maintenance is required. Just ensure they have enough sunlight and water. As they grow, they’ll form clumps that return each year, multiplying and spreading their sunny disposition.
Perfect for borders or containers, daffodils bring a touch of sunshine to any garden, lifting spirits and welcoming warmer days.
Hyacinths
Hyacinths are cherished for their powerful fragrance and striking appearance. Planting them in March is ideal for a late spring bloom. They prefer a sunny to partially shaded spot with well-drained soil.
Dig a hole about three times the height of the bulb and place them pointed side up. Water them sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. As they grow, their dense clusters of flowers provide a stunning visual and olfactory experience.
Hyacinths are perfect for adding fragrance to gardens, patios, or even indoor arrangements.
Crocuses
Crocuses are among the earliest bloomers, often poking through the last remnants of snow. Plant them in March for a burst of color as spring starts to unfold. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate light shade.
These small but hardy flowers require little care. Simply plant them about three inches deep and water lightly. Once established, they will naturalize, returning year after year.
Their vibrant petals in purples, yellows, and whites add charm to any garden, especially when planted in groups for a dramatic effect.
Snowdrops
Snowdrops are delicate yet resilient flowers that often signal the end of winter. They are ideally planted in March when the ground is workable. These bulbs prefer a shady spot with moist, well-drained soil.
Plant them about two inches deep and water them sparingly. As they bloom, they create a carpet of white that contrasts beautifully with the greenery of early spring.
Snowdrops are perfect for naturalizing in woodland gardens or as an early spring ground cover. Their understated elegance makes them a beloved choice for many gardeners.
Grape Hyacinths
Grape hyacinths are small, hardy bulbs that bloom in late spring. Plant them in March for a delightful display of tiny, grape-like flowers. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, though they can tolerate partial shade.
These bulbs require little maintenance once planted. Water them moderately, and they will multiply over the years, forming lush carpets of blue. Their unique appearance and ease of care make them a favorite for borders and rock gardens.
Grape hyacinths add a charming pop of color and texture to any garden setting.
Iris Reticulata
Iris reticulata is a dwarf iris variety known for its rich blue-purple flowers. Planting them in March ensures a spectacular early spring display. These bulbs prefer a sunny spot and well-drained soil to thrive.
Position them about four inches deep, and they’ll soon develop their striking blooms. Water them sparingly, as too much moisture can hinder their growth.
Their compact size makes them perfect for rock gardens, borders, or containers. Iris reticulata’s vivid colors and unique form add elegance and interest to any spring garden.
Chionodoxa
Chionodoxa, also known as ‘Glory of the Snow’, is a charming bulb that blooms in early spring. Plant these in March for a burst of star-shaped flowers. They do well in full sun or partial shade and prefer well-drained soil.
Plant them about three inches deep and keep the soil moist but not wet. As they grow, they form a low carpet of blue, pink, or white blooms that spread easily.
Ideal for naturalizing in grass or under deciduous trees, chionodoxa provides a delightful splash of color to herald the spring season.
Fritillaria Meleagris
Fritillaria meleagris, or snake’s head fritillary, captivates with its distinctive checkered petals. Plant these bulbs in March for a mid to late spring surprise. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade.
Place them about four inches deep in clusters for the best visual impact. These flowers require minimal care once established, making them a great choice for gardeners of all levels.
Their unusual pattern and nodding heads add intrigue and beauty to any garden, especially in naturalized settings or mixed borders.
Scilla
Scilla, or Siberian squill, offers a sea of blue in early spring. Plant these bulbs in March for a vibrant display. They prefer sunny spots with well-drained soil and are tolerant of cold climates.
Space them about three inches apart and keep them slightly moist. Once they bloom, their bright blue flowers create a stunning carpet effect.
Scilla is perfect for naturalizing in lawns or woodlands, where they can multiply freely. Their vivid color and durability make them a popular choice for gardeners looking to add spring cheer.
Anemone Blanda
Anemone blanda, or Grecian windflower, enchants with its daisy-like blooms. Plant them in March for a colorful spring display. These bulbs prefer well-drained soil and a spot that enjoys morning sun and afternoon shade.
Set them about two inches deep and maintain moderate moisture. As they grow, they’ll form a carpet of blue, white, or pink flowers. Their low-growing habit makes them ideal for woodland gardens or under shrubs.
Anemone blanda adds a whimsical touch to spring gardens, delighting gardeners and visitors alike with their cheerful appearance.
Allium
Alliums are striking bulbs known for their large, spherical blooms. Plant them in March to enjoy their impressive late spring presence. They prefer sunny locations and well-drained soil.
Place the bulbs about six inches deep, and water them sparingly. As they grow, their tall stems bear eye-catching flowers that attract pollinators.
Alliums are excellent for adding architectural interest to borders or as a focal point in flower beds. Their unique form and vibrant color make them a standout choice for any garden.
Leucojum
Leucojum, or summer snowflake, brings delicate beauty to spring gardens. Plant these bulbs in March for a late spring display. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade.
Position them about four inches deep and water regularly. As they bloom, their white, bell-shaped flowers dangle elegantly from slender stems.
Leucojum is perfect for adding a touch of grace to borders or naturalized areas. Their gentle appearance and ease of care make them a beloved choice for gardeners seeking understated elegance.
Puschkinia
Puschkinia, or striped squill, offers charming pale blue blooms. Plant these bulbs in March for an early spring delight. They prefer sunny spots with well-drained soil and are quite hardy.
Plant them about three inches deep, and ensure the soil remains moderately moist. As they flower, their striped petals create a subtle yet captivating effect.
Puschkinia is ideal for rock gardens or mixed borders, where they can naturalize and spread over time. Their delicate beauty and resilience make them a joy to grow.
Camassia
Camassia, or camas, is a North American native known for its star-shaped flowers. Plant these bulbs in March for a late spring bloom. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Position them about four inches deep, and keep the soil moist. As they grow, their tall flower spikes add vertical interest to any garden.
Camassia is perfect for naturalizing in meadows or damp areas, where they can multiply and thrive. Their striking appearance and adaptability make them a valuable addition to spring gardens.
Triteleia
Triteleia, also known as brodiaea, enchants with clusters of star-shaped blooms. Plant these bulbs in March for a late spring surprise. They prefer sunny spots and well-drained soil.
Place the bulbs about three inches deep, and water them moderately. As they blossom, their blue flowers create a delicate display that attracts pollinators.
Triteleia is ideal for borders or rock gardens, where they can mingle with other spring flowers. Their simple yet elegant charm makes them a delightful addition to any garden.
Eranthis
Eranthis, or winter aconite, greets spring with vibrant yellow blooms. Plant these bulbs in March to enjoy their early arrival. They prefer humus-rich, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Set them about two inches deep and ensure the soil remains moist. As they emerge, their sunny flowers provide a cheerful contrast to the lingering winter landscape.
Eranthis is perfect for woodland gardens or shaded borders, where their bright colors can stand out. Their early bloom time and hardiness make them a cherished addition to spring gardens.
Ipheion
Ipheion, or spring starflower, is a charming bulb with star-shaped blooms. Plant these in March for a late spring showing. They thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
Plant the bulbs about three inches deep, and keep them moderately watered. As they bloom, their pale blue flowers exude a light fragrance, attracting pollinators.
Ipheion is ideal for borders or rock gardens, offering a delicate touch with their simple yet lovely appearance. Their sweet fragrance and resilience make them a delightful choice for gardeners.