These Are the 17 Best Plants to Grow in March
As the songbirds serenade and the first buds unfurl, it’s a sure sign that the gardening season has arrived at last!
March heralds a time of transition—ushering in a new season, shifting weather patterns, and a flurry of activity in the garden. It’s a month where late winter meets early spring, offering gardeners the chance to savor the last harvests of cool-weather crops while laying the groundwork for the lush growth of the months ahead. At your local nursery, you’ll likely find an array of young edibles, perennial herbs, and flowering shrubs ready to be transplanted into your garden beds.
But before you dive headfirst into your gardening endeavors, take a moment to assess your USDA hardiness zone and consult with knowledgeable staff at your neighborhood garden shop. Understanding your region’s unique climate conditions ensures that you select plants best suited to thrive in your area. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for landscaping projects or eager to cultivate a bountiful vegetable garden, our curated list of the best plants to grow in March has you covered.
1. Cauliflower
For Zones 5-10, cauliflower thrives when started in the cool weather of spring. Begin by planting seeds indoors a month or two before the last frost, or directly in the ground two to four weeks prior.
2. Herbs
March is the perfect time to plant a variety of herbs, including rosemary, mint, sage, thyme, basil, and chives. These aromatic additions flourish in containers or garden beds, thriving in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
3. Potatoes
Embrace tradition by planting potatoes around St. Patrick’s Day. Start by planting seed potato pieces in trenches, gradually covering them with soil as they sprout—a technique known as “hilling”—to protect the tubers from sun damage.
4. Leeks
Sweet and mild, leeks thrive in cool weather and can withstand unexpected frosts. Keep the soil consistently moist for flavorful harvests, picking them as needed for your favorite culinary creations.
5. Tomatoes
With countless colors and varieties, tomatoes are a beloved garden staple. Start seeds indoors for Zones 5–10, transferring them outside once the last frost has passed for a summer filled with juicy tomatoes.
6. Broccoli
Certain quick-growing varieties of broccoli can be planted in late winter for a summer harvest. Choose a sunny spot in your garden, ensuring the heads are fully developed before harvesting.
7. Peppers
High-yielding and space-efficient, peppers thrive when planted close together. Begin growing seeds indoors 6 to 12 weeks before the last frost for robust plants ready to flourish outdoors.
8. Beets
Delicious and nutritious, beets prefer cool weather and can be planted from seed in early spring for a summer harvest in Zones 7–10. Plant in rows and add high-nitrogen fertilizer for optimal growth.
9. Peas
Sow green peas and sugar peas in Zones 5–10, 4 to 6 weeks before the last spring frost for an early summer harvest.
10. Cucumbers
Whether climbing or bush varieties, cucumbers are a fast-growing garden favorite. Start seeds indoors for Zones 5–6, or sow directly outdoors for Zones 7–10.
11. Spinach
A cool-weather favorite, spinach can be planted in March and will produce until the heat of summer arrives. Ideal for salads and sautés, spinach is a nutritious addition to any garden.
12. Roses
March is an ideal time to plant roses, especially bare-root varieties. Wait until after the last frost and water regularly to establish strong roots.
13. Azaleas
While fall is preferred, azaleas can still be planted in spring after the last frost. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil for these vibrant flowering shrubs.
14. Cherry Blossom Trees
Plant these iconic flowering trees in March for a stunning display of blooms. Ensure they receive plenty of sunlight for optimal growth and flowering.
15. Lemon Trees
Plant bare-root lemon trees after the last frost for a thriving citrus harvest. Place them in full sun and water regularly to encourage healthy growth.
16. Wax Begonia
Ideal for shaded areas, wax begonias can be planted after the last frost for colorful blooms throughout the season.
17. Zinnias
Sow zinnia seeds directly into the garden in March for a summer full of vibrant blooms. Choose a sunny spot and plant seeds a few inches apart for optimal growth.
With this diverse selection of plants, you can create a garden that thrives throughout the seasons. From crisp vegetables to colorful blooms, March offers endless possibilities for gardeners eager to embrace the joys of spring. So grab your gardening gloves and get ready to sow the seeds of a fruitful and vibrant garden this March!
