Gardening Tasks for Washington State: March

As the chill of winter begins to fade and hints of spring start to appear, March is an exciting time for gardeners in Washington state. With longer days and milder temperatures on the horizon, it’s the perfect opportunity to dive into gardening tasks that will set the stage for a bountiful and beautiful garden throughout the year.

Here are essential gardening tasks to consider for your Washington garden in March:

Prepare Your Soil:

March is the ideal time to start preparing your soil for planting season. Begin by testing your soil’s pH levels and adding any necessary amendments to ensure optimal growing conditions for your plants.

Prune Trees and Shrubs:
March is a great time to prune dormant trees and shrubs before they start to bud. Remove dead or damaged branches, shape the plant for optimal growth, and promote healthy new growth. Read our article, “When is the Best Time to Prune” to be sure that you are pruning at the best time for your particular plants or trees.

Start Seeds Indoors:
Get a head start on your vegetable and flower garden by starting your seeds indoors. This is especially important for plants that require a longer growing season or warmer temperatures to thrive.

Plant Cool-Season Vegetables:
Washington’s climate is perfect for cool-season vegetables like lettuce, spinach, kale, and peas. Plant these early in the month for a delicious harvest later in the season.

Divide Perennials:

Divide overcrowded perennials to promote healthier growth and prevent them from becoming root-bound. This is also a great way to multiply your plants for future garden projects.

Weed and Mulch:
Keeps weeds under control by regularly weeding your garden beds. Apply a layer of mulch to help suppress weed growth, retain moisture, and insulate plant roots during temperature fluctuations.

Inspect and Clean Tools:
Before the gardening season kicks into high gear, take the time to inspect and clean your gardening tools. Sharpen blades, oil moving parts, and replace any worn-out tools to ensure they’re ready for use.

Plan Your Garden Layout:
Use March to finalize your garden layout and design. Consider crop rotation, companion planting, and aesthetic elements to create a well-thought-out and productive garden space.

By tackling these gardening tasks in March, you’ll be well on your way to creating a thriving garden that will flourish throughout the year!