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On the JJ Barnes Blog, if like me you’ve seized the opportunity to get back out in the garden, and want to make the most of Spring, these are the best vegetables to plant in March.
If, like me, you’ve eagerly seized the chance to step back into the garden and soak up the promise of Spring, you’re probably itching to make the most of this vibrant season. March is the perfect time to get your hands dirty and start planting, setting the stage for a bountiful harvest in the months ahead.
To help you maximize your gardening efforts, with the help of John Collins, nursery manager at Somerset-based Ashridge, I’ve rounded up the best vegetables to plant right now—ones that thrive in the crisp, early days of Spring and reward you with fresh, homegrown goodness. Let’s dig in!
These hardy crops can withstand cooler temperatures, making them ideal for early sowing,. Getting them in the ground now gives you an earlier harvest and helps spread out the workload in the garden,.
-John Collins
Getting Started With March Planting: Tips for Success
If you’re ready to kick off your vegetable garden in March, a few simple steps can set you up for a thriving season. First, take stock of your space—whether it’s a sprawling backyard or a few pots on a windowsill, there’s a veggie that’ll fit. Check your soil: most crops, like the ones we’ve covered, love well-drained, nutrient-rich ground, so mix in some compost if it’s looking tired or heavy.
Timing is key in March—keep an eye on the weather, as a late frost can catch you off guard. If it’s still chilly, start seeds indoors and transplant them later, or use cloches to shield young plants outdoors. Watering matters too; keep the soil moist but not soggy to help those roots settle in.
Don’t be afraid to experiment—gardening is as much about learning as it is about growing. Pick a sunny day, grab your trowel, and dive in—there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of eating what you’ve nurtured from seed to plate.
The Best Vegetables To Plant In March
Broad Beans
Broad beans are a standout choice for planting in early March, thanks to their resilient, hardy nature that allows them to thrive even as cooler temperatures linger. These beloved national favorites are perfect for getting a jumpstart on the growing season—sow them now, and you could be enjoying a generous harvest as early as late spring or early summer, well ahead of many other crops.
To give them the best start, soak the seeds overnight in lukewarm water; this simple step softens their tough outer shells and encourages faster, more reliable germination. When planting, choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil—broad beans love basking in light and won’t tolerate waterlogged roots.
Space the seeds about 20cm apart in rows, and if you’re planting double rows, leave roughly 60cm between them. This thoughtful spacing promotes healthy air circulation, reduces the risk of disease, and makes it a breeze to tend to your plants or harvest those tender, flavorful pods when the time comes. With minimal fuss and a little patience, broad beans will reward you with a delicious, nutrient-packed crop that’s as satisfying to grow as it is to eat.
As the plants grow, staking or installing nets can provide them with extra support and prevent them from toppling over. Another great tip is pinching out their tips when they reach about one metre in height, as this will encourage bushier growth and deter pests like aphids.
-John Collins
Early Peas
Early peas are another fantastic option for planting in early March, with varieties like ‘Kelvedon Wonder’ and ‘Meteor’ perfectly tailored to thrive in cooler temperatures. Sow them now, and you’ll be savoring sweet, tender peas by late spring—delivering a delightful preview of summer flavors to your table, just as their name promises.
Unlike broad beans, early peas prefer a sheltered spot, protected from harsh winds, to help them settle in and grow strong. They’re also space-efficient: plant the seeds just 5cm apart in rows, spacing the rows 60cm apart to give them room to flourish.
For best results, consider adding some support—think twiggy sticks, netting, or a simple trellis. This not only helps their delicate vines climb and spread but also boosts growth, ensuring a healthier, more abundant crop.
With a little care, these early peas will reward you with a burst of freshness that’s hard to beat!
A great way to ensure your early peas survive and develop is to plant them indoors in biodegradable pots and transplant them later once they’ve grown. This will drastically reduce damage from pests like mice and birds.
-John Collins
Spinach
Spinach is a stellar pick for planting at the start of March, especially if you’re eager for an early harvest to kick off the season. This fast-growing gem delivers fresh, tender greens in no time, and hardy varieties like ‘Perpetual Spinach’ shrug off lower temperatures with ease, letting you enjoy a flush of vibrant leaves by early spring.
For the best results, choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with rich, moisture-retentive soil—spinach thrives when its roots can drink deeply. Sow the seeds about 30cm apart to give each plant ample space to stretch out and mature into lush, healthy clumps. If garden space is tight or you prefer a bit more control, try sowing them in containers instead; this makes tending them a breeze and works beautifully on patios or balconies.
To keep your spinach thriving, water consistently—dry spells can trigger bolting, sending it to seed too soon—and layer on some mulch to lock in soil moisture. With these simple steps, you’ll be snipping crisp, nutrient-packed greens before you know it!
Spinach is a vegetable that keeps on giving. It’s extremely rich in nutrients, and you can prolong the cropping period by harvesting its leaves regularly, always cutting the outer leaves first. This encourages new growth, allowing you to enjoy fresh veggies in your meals for longer.
-John Collins
Conclusion
As I step back into my garden this March, spade in hand and seeds at the ready, I can’t help but feel that familiar thrill of new beginnings. There’s something magical about watching those first green shoots push through the soil—broad beans standing tall, peas twining upward, and spinach unfurling its leaves—all proof of what a little care and hope can grow. For me, planting in March isn’t just about the harvest (though I’m already dreaming of those fresh-picked flavors); it’s about reclaiming a quiet corner of the world and making it mine again after winter’s lull.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out like I once did, I hope you’ll join me in digging into Spring. Here’s to dirty hands, sun-warmed soil, and the simple joy of growing our own—let’s make this season one to remember!
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