Spring is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to shake off the winter blues and start prepping our gardens for the growing season. Whether you have a full homestead or just a small backyard plot, March is the perfect time to get your hands in the dirt and start planting. Even if you’re a beginner, these simple garden tasks will set you up for a successful season.
Spring Garden Prep: Where to Start
Before planting anything, it’s important to get your garden ready. Here’s a quick checklist to help you start fresh this spring:
- Clean Up the Garden Beds – Remove any dead plants, weeds, and debris leftover from winter. This gives your new plants a healthy start.
- Turn Over the Soil – Loosen the soil with a fork or tiller to help with drainage and root growth.
- Add Compost or Mulch – Nourish your soil by adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure.
- Check Your Tools – Sharpen pruners, clean your garden tools, and make sure your watering system is working.
- Plan Your Layout – If you’re planting multiple crops, consider companion planting to maximize space and health benefits.
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What to Plant in March
March is a great time to start planting cool-season crops that thrive in mild temperatures. Here’s what you can plant now:
Direct Sow (Plant Seeds in the Ground)
- Leafy Greens – Lettuce, spinach, Swiss chard, and kale are hardy and can be sown directly into the soil.
- Root Vegetables – Carrots, radishes, beets, and turnips do well in early spring.
- Peas – Sugar snap and shelling peas love the cooler weather and will produce an early harvest.
- Herbs – Cilantro, parsley, and chives can be sown outdoors now.
Start Indoors (For Transplanting Later)
- Tomatoes & Peppers – If you want strong plants by the time the weather warms up, start these indoors now.
- Brassicas – Cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower can be started indoors and transplanted in a few weeks.
Simple Seasonal Recipe: Sautéed Garlic Greens
Since leafy greens are some of the first things ready to harvest, here’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy them:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, Swiss chard, or kale (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the greens and stir for 2-3 minutes until just wilted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Serve as a side dish or over eggs, pasta, or toast.
March is all about getting your hands dirty and setting up your spring garden for success. With just a little effort now, you’ll enjoy fresh food straight from your backyard in no time. Let me know in the comments—what’s the first thing you’re planting this season?
Happy gardening! 🌿
Christina
