March is the perfect time to get your garden ready for a productive growing season. The days are getting longer, and the soil is starting to warm up, making it ideal for planting a variety of vegetables and herbs. If you’re thinking about growing your own food, this month offers a great opportunity to start the groundwork for a bountiful harvest later on. From cool-weather crops to hardier herbs, there’s plenty to choose from to kickstart your garden.
Planting in March not only sets you up for success through the spring and summer months but also gives you the chance to enjoy fresh, homegrown produce sooner than you might expect. Whether you’re adding some savory herbs to your kitchen garden or looking to grow leafy greens and root vegetables, these 21 options will help you get the most out of your space and time. Happy planting!
Spinach
Spinach is a versatile leafy green that thrives in the cool weather of March. Begin by sowing seeds directly into well-drained soil. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter for optimal growth. As spinach grows quickly, you can enjoy multiple harvests throughout the season. Water regularly, but be cautious of overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Harvest leaves when they are tender and young for the best flavor. Spinach is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to salads, smoothies, and cooked dishes. Make sure to protect it from pests with netting.
Carrots
Carrots are a delicious root vegetable that are easy to grow in March. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches to allow for straight root development. Sow seeds thinly and cover lightly with soil. Maintain consistent moisture by watering lightly but frequently. Carrots prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Watch for pests like carrot flies, and consider using a fine mesh covering for protection. Harvest carrots when they reach a desirable size, and enjoy them fresh or cooked. Their sweet flavor and crunch add a delightful touch to meals.
Lettuce
Lettuce is an ideal choice for March planting, offering a variety of textures and flavors. Sow seeds directly into the prepared soil, ensuring good drainage and access to sunlight. Space seeds evenly to allow for proper growth. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Lettuce is quick to mature, so plan for successive plantings to extend your harvest. Protect from slugs and snails, which are common pests. Enjoy fresh, crisp leaves in salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish. Lettuce’s versatility and ease of growth make it a favorite among gardeners.
Peas
Peas are a great addition to your March garden, with both bush and climbing varieties available. Plant seeds in well-drained soil and provide support for climbing types. Peas thrive in full sun and require regular watering, particularly during flowering. Use mulch to keep roots cool and retain moisture. Monitor for aphids and treat with organic solutions if necessary. Pick peas regularly to encourage continued production and enjoy them fresh from the vine. Their sweet, crisp taste enhances many dishes, and growing peas is a fun project for gardeners of all ages.
Radishes
Radishes are perfect for planting in March, offering a fast-maturing crop with a peppery flavor. Sow seeds directly into loose soil and cover lightly. Space seeds to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to misshapen roots. Radishes thrive in cool weather and require consistent moisture for even growth. Harvest them when small for a tender, crisp texture. Watch for signs of bolting as the weather warms. Radishes are delicious in salads or as a crunchy snack. Their quick turnaround makes them ideal for succession planting, ensuring a continuous supply throughout the season.
Cilantro
Cilantro, also known as coriander, is an aromatic herb perfect for March planting. Sow seeds directly into the ground, spacing them for proper growth. Cilantro prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sun but will tolerate partial shade. Regular watering is essential, especially in dry conditions. Harvest leaves as needed, starting with the outermost foliage. The flavorful leaves add a fresh, citrusy note to many dishes. Allow some plants to flower and seed for a continuous supply. Cilantro’s dual purpose as both herb and spice makes it a valuable addition to your garden.
Chives
Chives are a resilient, easy-to-grow herb that thrives when planted in March. Start by sprinkling seeds over rich, well-drained soil and covering them lightly. Chives prefer full sun but will grow in partial shade. Regular watering and a bit of fertilizer will encourage lush growth. Harvest chive leaves by cutting near the base, which promotes further growth. Their mild onion flavor is a wonderful addition to salads, soups, and garnishes. In late spring, chives produce lovely purple flowers, which are also edible. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor and productivity.
Kale
Kale is a hardy leafy green that welcomes the cool start of spring. Sow seeds directly into nutrient-rich soil, ensuring good drainage. Space seeds well to allow for mature plants. Kale thrives in full sun and benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells. Harvest leaves from the bottom up for a continuous supply. Kale’s robust flavor and texture make it perfect for salads, soups, and smoothies. Protect it from cabbage moths and other pests with netting. Its nutritional benefits and ease of care make kale a staple in many gardens.
Beets
Beets are a versatile root vegetable that can be planted in March for a summer harvest. Sow seeds directly into well-prepared soil. Beets prefer full sun but will grow in partial shade. Keep the soil consistently moist for optimal growth. Thin seedlings as they develop to prevent overcrowding. Both the roots and greens are edible, offering diverse culinary uses. Harvest beets when they reach the desired size, and enjoy them roasted, boiled, or raw. Their earthy sweetness complements many dishes. Beets are rich in nutrients, making them a healthy addition to your garden.
Parsley
Parsley is a popular herb that flourishes when planted in March. Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil, covering them lightly. Parsley prefers full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Keep the soil moist, especially during dry periods. Harvest leaves as needed, starting with the outermost stems to promote new growth. Parsley’s bright flavor is a versatile addition to many dishes, from salads to soups. Allow some plants to flower and seed for a continuous supply. Parsley’s resilience and culinary value make it a favorite in home gardens worldwide.
Onions
Onions are a staple in many kitchens and can be planted in March for a rewarding harvest. Start by planting sets or seeds in well-drained soil. Onions prefer full sun and require consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Monitor for pests such as onion maggots. Harvest bulbs when the tops begin to fall over and dry. Their pungent flavor enhances many dishes, from soups to salads. Onions store well, making them a practical choice for gardeners seeking long-term yields. Adaptable and reliable, onions are a must-have in any vegetable garden.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a nutrient-rich vegetable that thrives when planted in cool weather. In March, sow seeds directly into well-drained soil, ensuring full sun exposure. Space plants adequately to allow room for growth. Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Protect young plants from cabbage worms and other pests with netting or organic treatments. Harvest broccoli heads when they are firm and deep green. The sweet, earthy flavor complements a wide range of dishes, from stir-fries to casseroles. Broccoli’s health benefits and versatility make it a valuable addition to your garden.
Turnips
Turnips are a hardy root vegetable that can be planted in March for an early summer harvest. Sow seeds directly into loose, fertile soil, covering them lightly. Turnips prefer full sun and require consistent moisture for even growth. Thin seedlings as necessary to prevent overcrowding. Both the roots and greens are edible, offering diverse culinary possibilities. Harvest when roots are small and tender for the best flavor. Turnips’ mild, slightly sweet taste enhances soups, stews, and salads. Their quick growth and dual-purpose nature make them a practical choice for any garden.
Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is a colorful, nutritious green that thrives in March’s cool weather. Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil, ensuring full sun exposure. Space plants adequately to allow room for growth. Swiss chard requires regular watering but is resilient to varying conditions. Harvest leaves as needed, starting with the outermost foliage. Its mild flavor and tender texture make it a versatile addition to salads, sautés, and soups. The vibrant stems add a pop of color to any dish. Swiss chard’s ease of care and nutritional benefits make it a staple in home gardens.
Leeks
Leeks are a flavorful member of the onion family that can be planted in March. Sow seeds or plant seedlings in rich, well-drained soil, spacing them adequately. Leeks prefer full sun and require regular watering to thrive. Mound soil around the base to blanch the stems as they grow. Harvest when they reach a desirable size, and enjoy their mild, sweet flavor. Leeks enhance soups, stews, and casseroles with their unique taste. Their long growing season and versatility make them a valuable addition to your vegetable garden.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a cool-weather vegetable that can be planted in March for a successful harvest. Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil, ensuring full sun exposure. Space plants adequately to allow room for growth. Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Protect young plants from pests with netting or organic treatments. Harvest cauliflower heads when they are firm and white. The mild, nutty flavor complements a wide range of dishes, from roasted sides to creamy soups. Cauliflower’s nutritional benefits and culinary versatility make it a valuable addition to your garden.
Collard Greens
Collard greens are a hardy vegetable that thrives when planted in March’s cool conditions. Sow seeds directly into rich, well-drained soil, ensuring full sun exposure. Space seeds to allow for mature plant size. Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture. Harvest leaves from the base up to encourage continuous growth. Collard greens’ robust flavor is perfect for sautés, stews, and soups. Protect from pests like cabbage worms with netting. Their nutritional benefits and robust growth make collard greens an excellent choice for home gardens seeking a reliable leafy green.
Dill
Dill is a fragrant herb that can be planted in March for a summer harvest. Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil, ensuring full sun exposure. Dill requires regular watering, especially in dry conditions. Harvest fronds as needed, starting with the outermost foliage. Its bright, tangy flavor enhances dishes like pickles, salads, and fish. Allow some plants to flower and seed for a continuous supply. Dill’s feathery leaves and culinary versatility make it a popular choice for herb gardens. It’s also known to attract beneficial insects, supporting a healthy garden ecosystem.
Mustard Greens
Mustard greens are a spicy, nutritious leafy green that can be planted in March. Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil, ensuring full sun exposure. Space plants adequately to allow room for growth. Regular watering is essential for tender leaves. Harvest leaves when they are young and tender for the best flavor. Mustard greens add a peppery kick to salads, stir-fries, and smoothies. Protect from pests like flea beetles with organic treatments. Their quick growth and bold flavor make mustard greens an exciting addition to any vegetable garden. They are rich in vitamins and minerals.
Thyme
Thyme is a hardy herb that can be planted in March for a fragrant harvest. Sow seeds or plant cuttings in well-drained soil, ensuring full sun exposure. Thyme requires minimal watering once established, thriving in dry conditions. Harvest leaves as needed, starting with the outermost stems to encourage bushy growth. Thyme’s aromatic, earthy flavor enhances a wide range of dishes, from meats to vegetables. Its resilience and low maintenance make thyme a favorite among gardeners. Allow some plants to flower to attract beneficial insects, supporting a thriving garden ecosystem.
Electric Dandelion Greens
Electric dandelion greens are a twist on the classic dandelion, with vibrant neon hues. These greens are not only visually striking but also packed with nutrients. Plant them in March for a splash of color and health benefits.
The leaves are tender and slightly spicy, making them perfect for salads or garnishes. They’re resilient, thriving in both sun and partial shade. Give them well-drained soil and regular watering for best results.
Harvest the leaves regularly to encourage new growth. Enjoy their unique taste and enhance your garden’s aesthetic appeal with their electrifying presence.