What Vegetables to Plant in March for Successful Spring Harvest
What Vegetables to Plant in March?
In March, there are several vegetables that can be planted.
This includes broad beans, carrots, beetroot, kale, leeks, broccoli, horseradish, chicory, turnips, spring onions, spinach, peas, shallots, parsnips, dill, chives, coriander, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, squash, chili peppers, sweet peppers, celery, cucumbers, gherkins, tomatoes, salad leaves, asparagus, rhubarb, and artichoke tubers.
Some vegetables may require starting indoors or in a greenhouse, while others can be directly planted.
Additionally, pre-grown seedlings are available for certain vegetables.
Key Points:
- March is a good time to plant a variety of vegetables.
- Some vegetables may need to be started indoors or in a greenhouse.
- Pre-grown seedlings are available for certain vegetables.
- Examples of vegetables that can be planted in March include broad beans, carrots, beetroot, kale, leeks, broccoli, and more.
- There are also options for herbs like dill, chives, and coriander.
- Vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers can be planted as well.
Did You Know?
1. Tomato is technically a fruit, but it is commonly referred to as a vegetable due to its culinary application.
2. Wasabi, commonly served with sushi, actually comes from the root of a plant related to the horseradish and mustard family, rather than being a vegetable.
3. Brussels sprouts owe their name to the city of Brussels in Belgium, where they were first widely cultivated in the 16th century.
4. Carrots were originally purple, rather than orange. It wasn’t until the 17th century that Dutch horticulturists developed the orange variety we commonly see today.
5. Artichokes are actually a type of thistle, and the edible part is the flower bud before it blooms. If left to mature, the artichoke will produce a beautiful purple flower.
Directly Plantable Vegetables For March
March is an exciting time for gardeners as it marks the beginning of the spring season, providing ample opportunities to sow a variety of vegetables directly into the ground. Among the vegetables that can be directly planted in March are broad beans, carrots, beetroot, kale, leeks, broccoli, horseradish, chicory, turnips, spring onions, spinach, peas, shallots, parsnips, dill, and chives.
Carrots are a staple in many gardens and can be easily direct sown in March. Choose a location with loose soil for better root development and sow the seeds half an inch deep. Be sure to space them adequately to allow room for growth.
Spinach is another vegetable that thrives when planted directly. It is a versatile green that can be used in salads, stir-fries, or even sautéed as a side dish. Sow the seeds half an inch deep and thin the seedlings as they grow to ensure proper air circulation.
- Choose a location with loose soil for carrots
- Sow the seeds half an inch deep
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Adequate spacing is necessary for carrot growth
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Sow spinach seeds half an inch deep
- Thin the seedlings as they grow to ensure proper air circulation
Vegetables Requiring Indoor Or Greenhouse Start
Some vegetables, such as cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, squash, chili peppers, sweet peppers, celery, cucumbers, gherkins, tomatoes, salad leaves, asparagus, rhubarb, and artichoke tubers, may require a head start indoors or in a greenhouse for a successful harvest.
By starting these vegetables indoors or in a greenhouse, the growing conditions, including temperature, light, and moisture, can be better controlled. This method also provides protection for the tender seedlings against potential pests or harsh weather conditions. Once the seedlings have grown to a certain size and stability, they can be easily transplanted into the garden.
To summarize the advantages of starting vegetables indoors or in a greenhouse:
- Better control over growing conditions
- Protection against pests and harsh weather conditions
- Ease of transplanting into the garden
Purchasable Pre-Grown Seedlings For March
For those gardeners who prefer convenience or have limited space to start seeds indoors, purchasing pre-grown seedlings is an excellent option. Many garden centers and nurseries offer a wide range of pre-grown seedlings for various vegetables in March. This allows gardeners to skip the initial germination and early growth stages, and directly transplant healthy seedlings into the garden.
Purchasable pre-grown seedlings are particularly ideal for vegetables like broccoli, kale, lettuce, and cabbage, as they require a bit more time and attention during the early stages of growth. By purchasing established seedlings, gardeners can save time and effort while still enjoying a bountiful harvest.
Diverse Varieties Of March Plantable Vegetables
The month of March offers a variety of vegetable options to suit different tastes and preferences. From the robust and earthy flavors of kale and beetroot to the crisp and refreshing spring onions and cucumbers, there is something for everyone’s palate.
For those looking to add a touch of spice to their garden, chili peppers and horseradish can provide just the right amount of heat. Alternatively, if you prefer milder flavors, sweet peppers and chives are excellent choices.
The diverse varieties available in March allow gardeners to experiment with different flavors and textures, ensuring an exciting and diverse harvest.
- Kale and beetroot offer robust and earthy flavors.
- Spring onions and cucumbers provide a crisp and refreshing taste.
- Chili peppers and horseradish add spice to the garden.
- Sweet peppers and chives offer milder flavors.
Experiment with the diverse varieties available in March to create an exciting and diverse harvest.
Noteworthy Vegetables For March Planting
While every vegetable listed for March planting has its unique qualities, there are a few noteworthy options that gardeners should pay special attention to. One such vegetable is asparagus, known for its delicate flavor and tender spears. Asparagus plants require patience as they take a couple of years to establish fully, but once established, they can provide a bountiful harvest for many years to come.
Another noteworthy vegetable is the nutritious and versatile broccoli. Broccoli plants require consistent moisture, fertile soil, and protection from pests. However, the effort is well worth it, as homegrown broccoli offers a fresher, more flavorful alternative to store-bought varieties.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What vegetables are best planted in March?
March is a great time to start planting vegetables in various zones. Some popular choices for this month include lettuce, onions, peas, peppers, spinach, summer squash, and tomatoes. These vegetables thrive in Zones 5-10, making them suitable for a wide range of locations. By planting these vegetables in March, gardeners can take advantage of the favorable weather conditions and ensure a bountiful harvest later in the year.
What veggies to plant in March in South Africa?
March is an ideal time to plant a variety of vegetables in South Africa. Take advantage of this season to sow an array of nutritious and delicious veggies in your garden. Some excellent choices include beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, and carrot. These vegetables are renowned for their versatility in cooking and high nutritional value. Furthermore, consider planting cauliflower, kale, and Swiss chard, which are known for their abundant health benefits. Enhance the flavor of your dishes by growing leek, onion, and radish in your garden. Lastly, don’t forget to plant peas and turnip as they offer a unique taste and contribute to a diverse range of culinary options.
What is a good summer crop?
One great summer crop to consider is watermelon. With its high water content, this juicy fruit loves the hot temperatures and abundant sunshine of summer. It not only tastes delicious but also helps keep you hydrated during the scorching days. Another good option is corn. It grows tall and strong under the warm sun, offering sweet and savory kernels perfect for summer picnics and barbecues. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of enjoying fresh corn on the cob straight from your own garden.
What vegetable is easiest to grow?
One of the easiest vegetables to grow is zucchini and squash. These versatile vegetables thrive in various climates and require minimal maintenance. They grow quickly and abundantly, making them a popular choice for beginner gardeners. Additionally, zucchini and squash can be grown in containers or directly in the ground, making them adaptable to different gardening spaces. Whether you have a small backyard or a sunny balcony, growing zucchini and squash will surely yield a bountiful harvest.
Another vegetable that is relatively easy to grow is cabbage. Cabbage is a cool-season crop that can tolerate colder temperatures, making it suitable for various regions. It requires regular watering and well-drained soil but doesn’t demand as much attention as some other vegetables. Cabbage plants are also relatively pest-resistant, making them a resilient option for beginner gardeners. Growing your own cabbage can provide you with fresh, crunchy leaves that can be used in salads, slaws, or delicious stir-fries.