Introduction
As the chill of winter fades and the promise of spring beckons, gardeners across the UK eagerly anticipate the opportunity to breathe new life into their outdoor spaces. March marks the beginning of a vibrant gardening season, where the soil awakens from its slumber, ready to embrace an array of plants bursting forth with colour and vitality. In this guide, we delve into the exciting realm of what to plant in March, offering inspiration and guidance for cultivating a flourishing garden oasis.
Top 5 Perennials to Plant in March
Astilbe (Astilbe spp.)
Astilbe, also known as false spirea, is a herbaceous perennial prized for its feathery plumes of flowers and fern-like foliage. It typically blooms in shades of pink, red, white, and lavender, adding vibrant colour and texture to garden borders and woodland settings. Planting astilbe in March allows it to establish strong root systems before the heat of summer, ensuring robust growth and profuse flowering during the growing season.
Astilbe thrives in partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for shady garden areas or along streams and ponds. With its long-lasting blooms and attractive foliage, astilbe provides a welcome burst of colour and interest in early summer gardens.
Dicentra (Dicentra spp.)
When contemplating what to plant in March, Dicentra, commonly known as bleeding heart, is a herbaceous perennial beloved for its unique heart-shaped flowers and delicate foliage. It typically blooms in shades of pink, white, and red, with pendant-shaped flowers that resemble miniature hearts dangling from arching stems. Planting dicentra in March allows it to establish strong root systems before the onset of warmer weather, ensuring vigorous growth and abundant flowering during the growing season.
Dicentra thrives in partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or beneath trees and shrubs. With its romantic blooms and graceful habit, dicentra adds charm and elegance to garden landscapes, attracting pollinators and delighting gardeners with its whimsical beauty.
Bergenia (Bergenia cordifolia)
Bergenia, also known as elephant’s ears or pig squeak, is a herbaceous perennial cherished for its bold, leathery leaves and clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring. The leaves are typically glossy and dark green, turning bronze or red in the autumn for added seasonal interest. Planting bergenias in March allows them to establish strong root systems and prepare for the display of vibrant spring flowers.
Bergenia thrives in partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil, making it an ideal choice for woodland gardens or shady borders. In addition to its ornamental value, bergenias are also deer-resistant and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to garden biodiversity.
Hellebore (Helleborus spp.)
In the quest for what to plant in March, Hellebores, also known as Lenten roses, are herbaceous perennial plants revered for their early spring blooms and shade tolerance. They typically have nodding, cup-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, purple, and green, which appear in late winter to early spring when little else is flowering in the garden. Planting hellebores in March allows them to establish strong root systems before the heat of summer arrives, ensuring vigorous growth and abundant flowering in subsequent years.
Hellebores thrive in partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil, making them ideal choices for woodland gardens, shaded borders, or as groundcover under trees and shrubs. Beyond their ornamental value, hellebores are also deer-resistant and attract early-season pollinators, making them valuable additions to any garden landscape.
Peony (Paeonia spp.)
When considering what to plant in March, peonies emerge as an excellent choice for garden enthusiasts seeking to add elegance and charm to their outdoor spaces. Peonies are herbaceous perennial plants cherished for their large, showy, and often fragrant flowers.
They come in a variety of forms, including single, semi-double, double, and anemone-flowered, with colours ranging from white and pink to red and coral. Planting bare-root peonies in March allows them to establish strong root systems before the warmth of summer stimulates above-ground growth and flowering.
Peonies thrive in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making March an ideal time to plant them as the soil begins to warm up and become workable. Once established, peonies require minimal maintenance and can provide years of beauty in the garden, with their lush foliage and stunning blooms attracting pollinators and adding elegance to garden borders.
Top 5 Bulbs to Plant in March
Daffodils (Narcissus spp.)
Daffodils, also known as narcissus, are iconic spring-blooming bulbs cherished for their bright, trumpet-shaped flowers and vibrant hues of yellow, white, and orange. Planting daffodil bulbs in March allows them to establish roots and prepare for their spectacular display in the following spring.
These hardy bulbs are easy to grow and thrive in a variety of soil types and light conditions, making them a versatile choice for garden borders, woodland areas, and containers. Daffodils symbolize renewal and hope, heralding the arrival of spring with their cheerful blooms and adding a touch of sunshine to any landscape.
Tulips (Tulipa spp.)
Tulips are perhaps the most beloved of all spring-blooming bulbs, renowned for their stunning array of colours, elegant forms, and graceful blooms. Planting tulip bulbs in March allows for a dazzling floral display in late spring and early summer, with flowers ranging from bold reds and pinks to soft pastels and striking bicolour.
These versatile bulbs thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, making them ideal for garden borders, rockeries, and mixed flower beds. Tulips are excellent for cut flower arrangements, adding beauty and elegance to indoor bouquets while brightening outdoor spaces with their radiant presence. So, when considering what to plant in March, tulips stand out as a timeless choice for a vibrant and enchanting garden display.
Crocuses (Crocus spp.)
Crocuses are charming spring-flowering bulbs known for their early bloom time and delicate, cup-shaped flowers. These resilient bulbs often emerge while snow still blankets the ground, bringing welcome bursts of colour to the garden as winter transitions to spring.
Planting crocus bulbs in March ensures a delightful show of flowers, with blooms ranging from shades of purple and lavender to white and golden yellow. Crocuses are easy to grow and naturalize readily, forming carpets of blossoms that attract early pollinators like bees and butterflies. These low-growing bulbs are perfect for mass plantings, rock gardens, and edging pathways, adding a cheerful touch to the spring landscape.
Snowdrops (Galanthus spp.)
Snowdrops are enchanting spring-blooming bulbs cherished for their delicate, nodding flowers and graceful appearance. As one of the first flowers to bloom in the new year, snowdrops are a welcome sight after the winter months, symbolising hope and renewal.
Planting snowdrop bulbs in March allows them to naturalise and multiply, creating charming drifts of delicate blooms that carpet woodland areas, garden borders, and shady corners. Snowdrops thrive in moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, making them ideal for planting beneath deciduous trees, along pathways, and in rockeries. These resilient bulbs are deer and rodent-resistant, adding beauty and charm to the early spring garden. So, when deciding what to plant in March, consider adding snowdrops to your garden for a charming and hopeful start to the season.
Hyacinths (Hyacinthus spp.)
Hyacinths are fragrant spring-blooming bulbs treasured for their intoxicating perfume and vibrant clusters of flowers. Planting hyacinth bulbs in March ensures an aromatic and visually stunning display in the months ahead, with blooms ranging from shades of blue, pink, and purple to white and cream.
These showy bulbs thrive in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making them ideal for garden borders, containers, and formal displays. Hyacinths are excellent for forcing indoors, providing early bursts of colour and fragrance to brighten indoor spaces during the dreary winter months. With their bold blooms and captivating scent, hyacinths are a must-have addition to any spring garden.
Top 5 Vegetables to Plant in March
Potatoes
March marks the perfect time to plant early varieties of potatoes, setting the stage for a bountiful harvest later in the year. Potatoes are a versatile and nutritious staple in many diets, offering an array of culinary possibilities from mashed potatoes to crispy fries. Potatoes should be at the forefront of every gardener’s mind when they consider what to plant in March. By planting potatoes in March, gardeners can take advantage of cooler temperatures to establish strong root systems before the warmer weather arrives.
Early varieties, such as ‘Charlotte’ or ‘Arran Pilot,’ are well-suited for March planting, providing ample time for growth and development. Whether grown in containers or garden beds, potatoes thrive in well-drained, fertile soil and benefit from regular watering and hilling as they grow.
Peas
Sowing pea seeds directly into the soil in March sets the stage for a rewarding harvest of sweet, tender peas later in the year. Peas are a versatile and nutritious vegetable, packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre. By planting peas early in the season, gardeners can take advantage of cooler temperatures, allowing the plants to establish strong root systems and thrive.
Peas come in both bush and climbing varieties, with climbing varieties requiring support to reach their full potential. Whether grown in rows or trained up trellises, peas benefit from well-drained soil, ample sunlight, and regular watering to ensure healthy growth and abundant yields.
Carrots
In March, gardeners can embark on the rewarding journey of planting carrots, a quintessential addition to the early spring garden. Carrots, renowned for their versatility and nutritional richness, stand as a beloved root vegetable, prized for their delightful crunch and vibrant hue. Seizing the opportunity to sow carrot seeds in March is paramount as it aligns with the optimal timing for germination and early growth.
By selecting a sunny site with well-draining soil and sowing the seeds thinly to prevent overcrowding, gardeners pave the way for success. Consistent moisture management is crucial to foster uniform growth and mitigate the risk of splitting. With strategic planning and adherence to what to plant in March, gardeners can anticipate a bountiful harvest of homegrown carrots, ready to adorn their tables with freshness and flavour as spring unfolds.
Spinach
March presents an excellent opportunity to sow spinach seeds for a nutritious and delicious addition to salads and meals. Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. By planting spinach early in the season, gardeners can take advantage of cooler temperatures, which promote optimal germination and vigorous growth.
Spinach thrives in well-drained soil with ample sunlight, making it an ideal crop for early spring planting. Sow spinach seeds thinly and keep the soil consistently moist to encourage healthy growth and prevent bolting. With its quick growth rate and versatility in the kitchen, spinach is a valuable addition to any vegetable garden.
Radishes
In March, gardeners can revel in the opportunity to sow radish seeds directly into the soil, kickstarting the growing season with these fast-growing delights. Radishes, celebrated for their crisp texture and peppery bite, serve as versatile additions to various culinary creations, from salads to sandwiches and beyond. By adhering to what to plant in March and sowing radish seeds promptly, gardeners set the stage for a rewarding harvest in as little as four weeks.
Optimal growth conditions include well-drained soil and ample sunlight, although radishes can tolerate partial shade if necessary. Thinly sow the seeds and maintain consistent soil moisture to foster rapid germination and ensure uniform growth. With minimal effort, gardeners can relish in a continuous supply of crisp, fresh radishes throughout the delightful spring months.
Top 5 Fruits to Plant in March
Plums
Early spring is an excellent time to plant plum trees, providing them with ample time to establish and develop before the growing season. Plums are loved for their sweet, succulent flesh and are delicious eaten fresh, dried, or cooked into jams and preserves.
Choose a position in your garden that catches loads of sun, with well-drained, fertile soil for optimal growth and fruiting. By planting plum trees in March, gardeners give them the best chance to acclimate to their new environment and produce abundant crops in the future.
Gooseberries
March marks the perfect time to plant gooseberry bushes, providing them with ample time to establish before the summer months. Gooseberries are prized for their tangy-sweet flavour and are versatile in culinary applications, from pies and jams to sauces and desserts.
Make sure to plant your gooseberries in a place within your garden that catches ample amounts of sun with well-drained soil and space plants according to their mature size to allow for optimal growth and airflow. When contemplating what to plant in March, gardeners should give gooseberry bushes a head start, ensuring a robust harvest of delicious berries in the future.
Strawberries
Early spring presents an excellent opportunity to plant strawberry runners or crowns, setting the stage for a bumper crop of juicy, sweet berries. Strawberries are beloved for their fresh flavour and versatility in the kitchen, from fresh eating to preserves and desserts.
Choose a sunny, sheltered location with well-drained soil and provide ample space for plants to spread and flourish. By planting in March, gardeners give strawberry plants the opportunity to develop strong root systems before the arrival of summer, ensuring healthy growth and abundant fruiting throughout the season.
Blueberries
When deciding what to plant in March, gardeners should consider blueberry bushes, which will set the stage for a delicious harvest of sweet, antioxidant-rich berries. Blueberries are admired for their health benefits and versatility in cooking, from baked goods to smoothies and salads.
Choose a sunny place with acidic soil and good drainage for optimal growth and fruiting. By planting blueberries in March, gardeners allow the bushes to establish strong root systems before the growing season, ensuring robust growth and abundant harvests in the years ahead.
Cherries
Early spring is an ideal time to plant cherry trees, providing them with ample time to establish before the summer months. Cherries are beloved for their sweet-tart flavour and are enjoyed fresh, dried, or preserved in various culinary creations.
Choose a sunny, well-drained location with fertile soil for optimal growth and fruiting. By planting cherry trees in March, gardeners give them the best chance to develop strong root systems and adapt to their new environment, leading to healthy growth and abundant fruit production in the future.
What NGS Can Do for You
At NGS, we are passionate about helping gardeners across the UK create thriving outdoor spaces that bring joy and beauty throughout the seasons. Our team of experts is here to offer personalised advice and guidance on selecting the perfect plants for your garden, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your horticultural journey.
From recommending the best native UK plants to providing step-by-step guidance on planting and care, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve your gardening goals. As part of our comprehensive services, we offer tailored planting schemes and expert maintenance advice to ensure that your garden thrives year-round. Our planting schemes are carefully crafted to suit your preferences, garden layout, and local climate, creating harmonious and visually stunning landscapes that reflect your unique style.
Whether you’re looking to cultivate a vibrant flower garden, establish a productive vegetable patch, or seek advice on what to plant in March, our team will work closely with you to design the perfect planting scheme for your space.
Additionally, our maintenance advice empowers you to care for your garden with confidence, providing valuable insights on watering schedules, pruning techniques, soil health, and more. With our guidance, you can enjoy a flourishing and healthy garden that brings joy and beauty to your outdoor space throughout the seasons.
For more information on our planting schemes visit our Contact Us page and get in touch!
Conclusion
With the arrival of March, the garden beckons with the promise of new beginnings and bountiful harvests. Whether you’re dreaming of vibrant perennials, fragrant bulbs, fresh vegetables, or luscious fruits, now is the time to plant the seeds of a blooming garden. By embracing the wealth of possibilities for what to plant in March, you can cultivate a garden oasis that delights the senses and nurtures the soul, all with the expert guidance and support of NGS.
