What Flowers to Plant in March for Immediate Impact
March marks a significant shift in the gardening calendar, transitioning from winter's dormancy to spring's vibrant awakening. It is an opportune time to get many flowers into the ground, ensuring a succession of blooms from spring right through to summer. For gardeners looking to establish colour early, consider planting hardy perennials that can withstand cooler temperatures but are ready to grow as the soil warms. These stalwart plants often provide cheerful blossoms relatively soon after planting or establish strong root systems to flower prolifically later in the season. They are a reliable choice for those seeking a garden that doesn't wait for high summer to impress.
- Plant hardy perennials for early spring colour.
- Sow seeds of annuals indoors for later transplanting.
- Introduce summer-flowering bulbs like dahlias now.
- Consider native plants for ecological benefits.
- Prepare beds thoroughly for optimal plant health.
When considering what to plant in March, focus on species that benefit from the cooling soil temperatures to establish their roots before the heat of summer arrives. This is particularly true for certain types of bulbs and dormant perennials. Planting these now allows them to develop a robust foundation, leading to healthier growth and more abundant flowering later on. It's about setting the stage for a successful growing season, rather than a race to immediate gratification, though some options do provide that too.
Hardy Perennials for Early Colour
These plants are well-suited for planting in March, as they can tolerate residual cold and are often already showing signs of life. Examples include Hellebores (Christmas Rose), which might still be blooming, and early-flowering Aquilegia (Columbine). Hostas, beloved for their foliage, can also be planted now, giving them ample time to establish before slug season truly hits. Lungwort (Pulmonaria) offers early blue, pink, or white flowers and attractive, often spotted, foliage. Forget-me-nots (Myosotis) are also excellent for March planting, providing delicate blue flowers that associate well with spring bulbs.
Starting Annuals from Seed
While some tender annuals need protection, many can be started indoors in March. This allows you to get a head start on the growing season, ensuring a continuous display of colour. Varieties like sweet peas, cosmos, and zinnias can be sown in trays or pots filled with seed compost. Keep them in a warm, bright location, such as a windowsill or greenhouse. Once the risk of frost has passed and seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be gradually hardened off before transplanting into their final positions outdoors. This process of sowing indoors in March is key to enjoying a full summer of annual displays.
Introducing Summer-Flowering Bulbs
March is an ideal time to plant many summer-flowering bulbs that require a period of cool soil to initiate growth. Dahlias, gladioli, and begonias are prime examples. Plant dahlia tubers about 10-15 cm deep, spacing them according to variety. Gladioli corms can be planted in succession every couple of weeks to ensure a continuous display of their tall spikes throughout summer. Begonias, often grown for their vibrant flowers or attractive foliage, should also be planted now. Ensure good drainage, as these bulbs can rot in waterlogged soil. Planting these bulbs in March sets the foundation for a spectacular summer show.
Preparing Your Soil and Beds for March Planting
Effective soil preparation is foundational for successful March planting. While the soil might still be cool, it's crucial to ensure it's well-drained and free of debris from winter. Begin by clearing away any fallen leaves, dead foliage, or weeds that have accumulated. This not only tidies the garden but also prevents pests and diseases from overwintering and affecting your new plantings. Incorporating organic matter, such as well-rotted compost or manure, is highly beneficial at this stage. This enriches the soil, improves its structure, and enhances drainage, which is particularly important as March can still bring wet weather. Aim for a crumbly texture, indicating the soil is ready to receive new plants.
When you're deciding what to plant now, consider the specific needs of each flower. Some plants, like spring bulbs, prefer lighter, well-draining soil, while others may benefit from richer, moisture-retentive conditions. If your soil is heavy clay, adding grit or sand can improve drainage. For sandy soils, more organic matter will help retain moisture and nutrients. Test the soil pH if you're unsure; most flowering plants prefer a neutral to slightly acidic environment.
Improving Drainage and Structure
Good drainage is paramount, especially for bulbs and plants that are susceptible to rot. If your beds tend to hold water, consider creating raised beds or amending the soil with materials like perlite, vermiculite, or coarse sand. Turning the soil over to a depth of at least 20-25 cm, and breaking up any large clods, will create a welcoming environment for root development. Avoid walking on the soil when it is wet, as this compacts it, hindering aeration and drainage.
Enriching the Soil with Nutrients
Incorporating organic matter is a gardener's best friend. Compost, aged manure, or leaf mould supply essential nutrients, improve soil structure, and increase water retention. Spread a layer of organic material over the planting area and gently fork it into the top 10-15 cm of soil. This provides a slow release of nutrients that will support your plants as they grow through spring and into summer. For plants with specific nutrient needs, such as roses or heavily flowering annuals, a balanced, slow-release fertiliser can be incorporated at planting time, following product instructions carefully.
Rake pathways and borders smooth after preparing beds, creating a neat finish and preventing soil erosion from wind or light rain.
Weed Control and Mulching
Remove any perennial weeds thoroughly, ensuring you get the roots. March is a good time to tackle them before they become established and start vigorous growth. Once your plants are in place, a layer of mulch can be highly beneficial. Organic mulches, such as wood chippings, bark, or straw, help suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and regulate soil temperature. Apply a layer of 5-7 cm around your plants, keeping it a little away from the stems to prevent rot. This simple step significantly contributes to the long-term health and appearance of your garden.
Selecting Flowers for Different Garden Conditions in March
Choosing the right flowers to plant in March involves matching plant needs to your garden's specific conditions. Whether you have a sunny border, a shady nook, or containers on a patio, there are suitable options. Considering what to plant now means assessing light levels, soil type, and prevailing weather patterns in your locale. For sun-drenched areas, look towards heat-loving annuals and perennials that thrive in full light. In shadier spots, select plants that tolerate or prefer dappled shade, ensuring they still receive enough light to bloom effectively. Understanding these factors will prevent disappointment and help foster a thriving garden.
Sun-Loving Choices
Many popular summer-flowering plants are sun worshippers. Dahlias, when planted in March, will reward you with spectacular blooms in various colours and forms throughout summer and autumn. Zinnias, a classic annual for sunny spots, produce vibrant, daisy-like flowers from summer until the first frost. Cosmos, with their airy foliage and delicate petals, also flourish in full sun and are excellent for attracting pollinators. For a more naturalistic look, consider planting ornamental grasses that will provide structure and movement later in the year.
Shade-Tolerant Varieties
For gardens with less direct sunlight, several beautiful flowers can be planted in March. Hostas are primarily grown for their foliage, offering a range of greens, blues, and variegated patterns, but many also produce attractive flower spikes. Ferns are also excellent for shady corners, providing lush, green texture. Impatiens and begonias are popular choices for shaded beds and containers, offering continuous colour from late spring until autumn. Many varieties of Heuchera (Coral Bells) also do well in partial shade, providing a stunning display of colourful foliage.
It is vital to match plant selection to site conditions for optimal flowering.
Flowers for Containers and Pots
March is an excellent time to pot up plants that will provide colour on patios, balconies, or windowsills. Many of the annuals mentioned earlier, like petunias and geraniums (pelargoniums), can be started from seed or young plants bought in. Pansies and violas, already blooming in garden centres, can be planted directly into pots for immediate colour, and they will continue flowering well into spring. Lobelia and alyssum are fantastic for trailing over the edges of containers, adding a delicate, cascading effect. Ensure pots have adequate drainage holes and use a good quality potting mix.
Native and Wildlife-Friendly Plants
Consider incorporating native plants into your March planting schedule. These are often well-adapted to local conditions, requiring less maintenance and providing vital support for indigenous wildlife. Many native wildflowers, when sown or planted in March, will establish strong root systems to bloom later in the year, offering nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Researching local flora will provide specific recommendations, but generally, plants that bloom early are particularly valuable for emerging pollinators.
Caring for Your Newly Planted Flowers
Once your chosen flowers are in the ground, providing attentive care will ensure they establish well and flourish. March can still bring unpredictable weather, from late frosts to dry spells, so vigilance is key. Regular watering, especially for newly transplanted items or container-grown plants, is essential, but avoid over-saturating the soil, as this can lead to root rot. Monitor the soil moisture by checking the top few centimetres; water when it feels dry to the touch.
As the weather warms, pay attention to potential pests and diseases. Slugs and snails can be a particular problem for young, tender shoots appearing in early spring. Taking preventative measures, such as using barriers or traps, can protect your new plants. Vigilance and early intervention are often more effective than dealing with a full-blown infestation. Understanding the specific needs of each plant, whether it's for light, water, or feeding, will contribute significantly to their success.
Watering Regimes
Newly planted flowers, particularly annuals and those started from seed, require consistent moisture to establish a strong root system. Water deeply rather than frequent shallow watering, encouraging roots to grow downwards. For container plants, watering needs are typically higher, as pots dry out more quickly. The frequency will depend on temperature, wind, and the type of plant, but checking daily is advisable during warmer periods. Rainwater is always preferable, as it is free from the chemicals found in tap water.
Protecting Against Frost and Pests
March can still be subject to late frosts. If a cold snap is forecast after you have planted out tender seedlings or young plants, consider covering them with horticultural fleece or bringing potted plants into a sheltered location like a cold frame or unheated greenhouse. For common garden pests like aphids or slugs, regular inspection is necessary. A gentle stream of water from a hose can dislodge aphids, while barriers or organic slug pellets can help manage gastropod damage. Identifying the pest is the first step to effective control.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly once they appear; this encourages many plants to produce more blooms rather than putting energy into seed production.
Feeding and Ongoing Care
While the soil preparation in March should provide initial nutrients, plants in containers, or those that are heavy feeders, may require additional feeding as they grow. Use a balanced liquid feed every few weeks during the growing season. For perennials and bulbs that are emerging, a top dressing of general-purpose fertiliser or a boost of organic matter around their base can be beneficial. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for any fertilisers or soil amendments you use to avoid over-application, which can harm plants.
The real reward of planting in March lies in the anticipation of sustained beauty and colour throughout the ensuing seasons.