March marks the beginning of the gardening season in many regions, making it the perfect time to start planting certain crops that thrive in the transition from winter to spring. In this article, we explore nine essential crops you should consider planting in March to ensure a productive and bountiful harvest.
Potatoes are one of the easiest and most rewarding crops to grow. They thrive in various conditions, from in-ground planting to raised garden beds.
-
Planting Tip: Use certified seed potatoes or organic store-bought ones that have sprouted. Bury them about 6 inches deep in loose, well-draining soil.
-
Harvest Time: Around 2-3 months after planting, once the foliage has fully died back.
-
Bonus: Potatoes improve soil quality, making them a great choice for crop rotation.
Brassicas are a staple in many home gardens, and for good reason—they’re packed with nutrients and can be grown in both spring and fall.
-
Best Varieties:
-
Copenhagen Market Cabbage – Compact and productive.
-
Twister Cauliflower – Self-wrapping leaves protect the head from sun damage.
-
Di Cicco Broccoli – Produces a large main head followed by tasty side shoots.
-
-
Pro Tip: Start seeds indoors to get a head start, then transplant once the soil warms up.
Companion planting is an excellent strategy to protect crops naturally, and these flowers are garden superstars.
-
Marigolds: Their scent repels pests like nematodes and aphids. French marigolds are particularly effective.
-
Nasturtiums: Act as a “trap crop,” drawing pests away from vegetables.
-
How to Grow: Direct sow after the last frost or start indoors for an early bloom.
Also known as mini snapdragons, Linaria is an underrated beauty that brings color and charm to your garden.
-
Best Variety: Fairy Bouquet – A mix of vibrant shades.
-
Planting Tip: Sow seeds in clumps every 4 inches, pressing them lightly into the soil.
-
Why Grow It? Adds delicate, fairy-like hues that contrast beautifully with leafy greens.
No garden is complete without sunflowers. They provide height, texture, and attract pollinators.
-
Top Varieties:
-
Lemon Queen & Evening Sun – Multi-branching, extended blooming period.
-
Mongolian Giant – Can reach towering heights with massive heads.
-
-
Pro Tip: If you want truly giant sunflowers, direct sow instead of transplanting to protect their taproots.
These herbs are essential for any kitchen gardener.
-
Best Basil: Everleaf Emerald Towers – Slow to bolt, perfect for pesto lovers.
-
Best Dill: Tetra – Tolerates heat and provides food for pollinators.
-
Growing Advice: Start seeds indoors now for an early harvest, or direct sow after frost.
Beans are one of the most productive crops, easy to grow in both gardens and containers.
-
Best Varieties:
-
Royal Burgundy – Perfect for cool climates.
-
French Filet (Haricots Vert) – Classic, slender green beans.
-
Gold Rush – Vibrant yellow pods for a striking visual contrast.
-
-
Pro Tip: Sow seeds every 1-2 weeks for continuous harvests throughout the season.
Carrots are fun to grow and offer great variety in color and shape.
-
Best Varieties:
-
Little Fingers – Small but flavorful.
-
Tonda di Parigi – A round, beet-shaped carrot that grows well in raised garden beds.
-
-
Germination Hack: Keep the soil moist and cover freshly sown seeds with burlap or cardboard to retain moisture.
These tropical plants are easier to grow than you think and have incredible health benefits.
-
How to Start: Use organic ginger/turmeric from the grocery store. Cut into sections, making sure each piece has an “eye.”
-
Growing Tip: Start in pots indoors, then transplant outdoors in warm weather. Partial shade is best for hot climates.
-
Harvest Time: 8-10 months after planting, once the leaves die back.
March is the perfect time to get your hands in the soil and start planting for a bountiful season ahead. By carefully selecting crops that suit your climate and needs, you can create a thriving, productive garden that provides beauty, nutrition, and sustainability.
Which of these plants will you be growing this March? Share your gardening plans and let's grow together!
