March is the month that brings all gardeners out of hibernation. By now the early spring bulbs are flowering prolifically and by the end of the month the main spring flowering shrubs such as Forsythia will be in bloom.
Warmth can now be felt in the strengthening sun, many seeds germinate readily outside. Weed seedlings also germinate freely at this time and plants such as nettles, that die down to ground level in the autumn, start to produce fresh new growth. It is impossible not to be aware suddenly that there are all kinds of jobs that need to be done in the garden, fortunately the better weather makes most of these jobs a pleasure.
Jobs that won't wait!
- Mulch existing beds and borders with compost, manure or bark while the soil is moist to reduce the need for watering and weeding later in the year.
- Mid March - plant seed potatoes, onion sets and shallots.
- Sow seeds of summer bedding plants, annual climbers, herbs, sweet peas, tomatoes and many vegetables this month.
- Some seeds can be sown directly into open ground but most benefit from being started off in pots or trays with protection from bad weather and pests.
- Prick out seedlings and then hardy annuals and vegetables sown in the open ground before they become overcrowded, otherwise they will make poor plants.
- Pot up Plug plants or space out in seed trays in the greenhouse.
- Divide congested clumps of border perennials before they make a lot of new growth.
- Prune roses as soon as possible, ideally before this year's new growth is well developed and apply a fertiliser such as 'Toprose'.
- Start spraying fruit such as apples and pears if you have had problems with pest and diseases in previous years.
- March is a good time to plant new trees and shrubs so they have time to establish before the dry summer weather.
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