March is the month when we begin to get some pleasant days to work in the garden and it is also the month when we celebrate the first day of spring. This year, that will be March 20. The first day of spring does not necessarily indicate that the coming days will all be sunny and warm. Those of us who have lived here for some years know that is not the case. However, it is an indication that warm weather is at least on the horizon. In my garden, March is the month when I still have some tidying up to do and some ‘editing’ with existing plants, meaning they might need to be divided or transplanted. Here are some garden tips for the month.
Divide Hosta & Daylily Plants
If hosta and daylily plants have been in a location for three years or more, they may have become crowded and dividing them will probably be a benefit. Both are very easy to divide, and this is a good time to check with your neighbors and perhaps a plant exchange can take place.
Plant Berry Crops
Garden centers will probably have the best selection of berry plants in March than at any other time of year. Whether it is blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, or gooseberries, this is the time to plant. Most of the cane berries, raspberries, blackberries, etc., will probably need some support such as a wire structure or a trellis. Blueberries make excellent container plants and are ideal for a gardener that desires fresh blueberries but has limited space.
American Glove Leather Palm Berry Trainer Glove, 214
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Down to Earth, Premium Acid Mix Fertilizer, 25 lb
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Start Tomato Seeds Indoors
A heating pad is ideal for use when starting tomato seeds. Seed packets will give an indication of the days from seed to fruit. To extend the harvest, plant some early types, some mid-season, and some late maturing tomatoes. Most tomato plants will need some support and there are special stakes and wire cages that work well. Tomatoes can be planted in containers and will thrive on a sunny deck or patio.
Lilly Miller Morcrop Tomato & Vegetable Dry Plant Food, 16 lb.
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Lilly Miller 5-10-10 Morcrop Tomato & Vegetable Plant Food, 4 lb.
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Galvanized Tomato Cage, 14 in. X 42 in.
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Jiffy, 50 Peat Cell Seed Starting Greenhouse Kit, TS50HST-8
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Rapiclip Tomato Twine, 2 ply jute, 800 ft.
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Compost Grass Clippings
If a weed killer or weed and feed product has not been used, grass clippings are ideal to add to the compost pile. I have learned that they will quickly heat up and help the decomposition of other plant material. If there is an excess of grass clippings, work in some brown material like small twigs or leaves from last fall. Use a spading fork and turn the material frequently so the grass clippings do not form a matted layer.
Control Moss in the Lawn
If moss is prevalent in the lawn, this is the time to use a moss control product. Most of these products will contain iron to kill the moss and after contact with moss, the iron will turn it black in about 24 hours. If there are large areas of moss, wait several days after treatment and then rake it out. This would then be a good time to add some fresh seed.
Miracle Gro Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter
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Luster Leaf Dial Composter Thermometer
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Start Tuberous Begonias Indoors
Tuberous begonias make wonderful container plants for summer color. There are both upright and hanging varieties and they generally prefer a shady location. March is the month to get the tubers planted.
March is the month to get the chores completed that are left over from last fall and winter. If you have not pruned your roses, do so now. Forsythia plants that are finished blooming, can be pruned now, if needed. If planting new roses is on your agenda, garden centers will have a good selection at this time. Don’t forget about cool season vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, that can be planted now.
Enjoy your time in the garden!
MIKE’S GARDEN IS LOCATED IN OREGON’S WILLAMETTE VALLEY AND HIS ADVICE IS CONSISTENT WITH THE MILD CLIMATE THERE.
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