Gardener’s calendar - March

March is a busy and exciting month for gardeners, as the spring officially arrives and the garden comes to life. The weather is warming up, the soil is thawing, and the plants are growing. There are many tasks that you can do in March to make the most of the season and prepare your garden for the summer. Here are some tips and ideas for different types of gardens.

Key takeaways

What to do	What to plant	What to harvest
Weed and hoe your soil and beds	Maincrop vegetables like potatoes, onions, and leeks	Spring vegetables like spinach, radishes, and spring onions
Harden off and transplant your seedlings	Annual flowers like pansies, violas, and nasturtiums	Herbs like chives, coriander, and dill
Divide and replant your perennials	Fruit trees and bushes like apples, pears, and raspberries	Spring flowers like daffodils, tulips, and primroses
Support and train your climbers and vines	Lawn grass and wildflowers	Rhubarb and forced chicory

Weed and hoe your soil and beds

One of the first tasks that you can do in March is to weed and hoe your soil and beds, to remove any unwanted plants and improve the condition of your soil. Weeds can compete with your plants for space, light, water, and nutrients, and can also harbor pests and diseases. Hoeing can help break up the soil surface, aerate the soil, and incorporate organic matter. Here are some steps to follow:

• Choose a dry and sunny day to weed and hoe your soil and beds, as the weeds will be easier to pull out and will dry out and die faster.
• Use a sharp and sturdy hoe to cut off the weeds just below the soil surface, and rake them up and dispose of them. You can also use a hand weeder or a trowel to dig out any deep-rooted or persistent weeds, such as dandelions or bindweed.
• Avoid hoeing too deeply or too close to your plants, as you may damage their roots or disturb their growth. You can also use a mulch or a weed barrier to suppress the weeds and prevent them from germinating.
• Hoe your soil and beds regularly, at least once a week, to keep the weeds under control and maintain loose and fertile soil.

Harden off and transplant your seedlings

Another task that you can do in March is to harden off and transplant your seedlings, to acclimatize them to the outdoor conditions and give them more space and nutrients to grow. Hardening off is the process of gradually exposing your seedlings to the outside temperature, light, and wind, to reduce the shock and stress of the transition. Transplanting is the process of moving your seedlings from their original containers or trays to their final growing location, such as a pot, a bed, or a border. Here are some tips for hardening off and transplanting your seedlings:

• Start hardening off your seedlings about two weeks before transplanting them, when the weather is mild and settled, and the risk of frost is low.
• Place your seedlings in a sheltered and sunny spot, such as a porch, a patio, or a cold frame, and leave them there for a few hours a day, increasing the duration and exposure each day.
• Bring your seedlings indoors or cover them with a fleece or a cloche at night, or if the weather is cold, windy, or rainy.
• Water your seedlings well before and after transplanting them, and avoid transplanting them in the hottest part of the day, to prevent wilting or scorching.
• Dig a hole or a trench for your seedlings, slightly larger and deeper than their root ball, and add some compost or fertilizer to the bottom.
• Carefully remove your seedlings from their containers or trays, holding them by the leaves and not by the stems, and gently tease out any tangled or circling roots.
• Place your seedlings in the hole or the trench, and fill in the gaps with soil, firming it around the base of the stem. Make sure the soil level is the same as it was in the container or tray, and that the stem is not buried or exposed.
• Space your seedlings according to the instructions on the packet, or the size and shape of the plant, leaving enough room for them to grow and spread.
• Water your seedlings thoroughly, and mulch them with a layer of organic material, such as straw, bark, or grass clippings, to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Divide and replant your perennials

Another task that you can do in March is to divide and replant your perennials, to rejuvenate them and increase their number. Perennials are plants that live for more than two years and usually flower every year. Dividing and replanting can help improve their health, vigour, and flowering, as well as prevent overcrowding and diseases. Here are some tips for dividing and replanting your perennials:

• Choose a cool and cloudy day to divide and replant your perennials, to avoid stressing or drying out the plants.
• Select the perennials that need dividing, such as those that have become too large, too old, or too sparse. You can also choose the perennials that you want to propagate, such as those that have attractive flowers, foliage, or fragrance.
• Lift the perennials from the soil with a fork or a spade, and shake off any excess soil. You can also wash the roots with water to make them easier to see and separate.
• Divide the perennials into smaller sections, using a knife, a saw, or your hands, depending on the type and size of the plant. You can also use pruning shears or scissors to trim any damaged or diseased roots or stems.
• Replant the sections in the same or a different location, depending on your preference and design. You can also give away or swap the sections with other gardeners or friends.
• Dig a hole or a trench for the sections, slightly larger and deeper than their root ball, and add some compost or fertilizer to the bottom.
• Place the sections in the hole or the trench, and fill in the gaps with soil, firming it around the base of the stem. Make sure the soil level is the same as it was before, and that the crown or the buds are not buried or exposed.
• Water the sections thoroughly, and mulch them with a layer of organic material, such as straw, bark, or grass clippings, to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Support and train your climbers and vines

The last task that you can do in March is to support and train your climbers and vines, to guide their growth and shape their appearance. Climbers and vines are plants that have long and flexible stems that can climb or trail over other plants or structures. Supporting and training can help prevent them from becoming tangled, unruly, or invasive, as well as enhance their beauty and productivity. Here are some steps to follow:

• Choose a suitable support for your climbers and vines, such as a trellis, a pergola, a fence, or a wall. You can also use natural supports, such as trees, shrubs, or hedges.
• Install the support securely and firmly, making sure it can withstand the weight and the wind of the plants. You can also use hooks, nails, or screws to attach the support to the structure.
• Tie the stems of your climbers and vines to the support, using a soft and flexible material, such as twine, string, or wire. You can also use clips, rings, or ties to secure the stems to the support.
• Arrange the stems of your climbers and vines in a pattern or a direction that you like, such as horizontal, vertical, diagonal, or spiral. You can also prune or pinch the stems to encourage branching or flowering.
• Check and adjust the stems of your climbers and vines regularly, to make sure they are growing well and not damaging the support or the structure. You can also untie and retie the stems as they grow longer or thicker.

Seasonal Planting Calendar: Optimizing Your Garden in Climate Zones 5 and 6

 Introduction

Gardening in climatic zones 5 and 6 has a distinct set of challenges and rewards. These zones have distinct seasons, with hot summers and freezing winters that can have a considerable influence on plant development. While seasonality can make gardening more difficult, it also allows for the cultivation of a varied range of plants and the extension of the growing season via proper planning.

Understanding the appropriate planting schedules for different crops is critical to the success of your garden in these zones. This detailed planting calendar will guide you through the year, highlighting the optimal times to sow seeds and transfer seedlings for a bumper crop.

Important Takeaways

Seasons are evident in climate zones 5 and 6, with warm summers and frigid winters.

Successful growing in these zones requires careful planning and timing.

This planting calendar will help you sow seeds and transplant seedlings throughout the year.

Winter (November to March)

Table 1: Winter Planting Instructions

Crop	Sowing Time	Transplant Time
Root vegetables (beets, carrots, parsnips)	Late September to late November	Late April to late June
Brassicas (cabbage, kale, broccoli)	Late September to late November	Late April to late June
Onions (scallions, green onions)	Late August to early September	Late April to late June
Peas	Late February to early March	April to May

Winter Gardening Suggestions:

Cloches, row coverings, or cold frames can be used to protect susceptible seedlings from severe winter conditions.

Mulch around plants to preserve moisture and prevent temperature swings in the soil.

Harvest root veggies all winter long since they can withstand frost and snow.

Season of Spring (April-June)

Table 2: Spring Planting Instructions

Crop	Sowing Time	Transplant Time
Brassicas (lettuce, spinach, arugula)	Late March to early April	Late April to late June
Herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)	Early April to early May	Late April to late June
Beans	Early May to early June	Late May to late July
Tomatoes	Late May to early June	Late May to late July

Spring Gardening Hints:

Keep an eye on soil temperatures and avoid planting too early, since frost can harm young plants.

Provide appropriate support for plants to prevent them from tipping over in windy circumstances.

Improve soil drainage and limit the danger of soil-borne illnesses by using raised beds or containers.

Summer (July to September)

Summer Gardening Hints:

Water plants on a regular basis to guarantee adequate hydration during hot, dry weather.

Implement preventative measures such as companion planting and organic pest management strategies to protect plants from pests and illnesses.

To encourage continuous plant development, monitor soil fertility and fertilise on a regular basis.

Autumn (October-November)

Table 3: Fall Planting Instructions

Crop	Sowing Time	Transplant Time
Root vegetables (potatoes, turnips)	Late July to late August	Late August to late September
Greens (collard greens, kale)	Early September to early October	Early September to early October
Broccoli rabe	Late August to late September	Late August to late September
Spinach	Late August to late September	Late August to late September

Fall Gardening Tips:

Harvest leafy greens throughout the autumn because they can withstand lower conditions.

Row coverings or cold frames can help protect sensitive plants from early frost.

Mulch around plants to keep moisture in and weeds out.

You may effectively develop a varied range of crops and enjoy a plentiful harvest throughout the year by following this planting schedule and adjusting to the unique demands of your garden in climatic zones 5 and 6. To maximise success, keep up to date on local weather forecasts and alter your planting schedule accordingly.

Summer (July to September)

Summer is the most productive growing season in climatic zones 5 and 6, with long days and high temperatures suited for many crops. However, the season might be difficult because of the hot, dry weather and the possibility of pests and illnesses.

Summer Gardening Hints:

Water plants on a regular basis: Water your plants deeply and rarely during hot, dry months to stimulate deep root development and minimise shallow rooting, which can lead to water stress.

Protect plants from pests and illnesses by using preventative measures such as companion planting, organic pest management methods, and crop rotation on a regular basis.

Soil fertility can rapidly fall throughout the growth season, so keep an eye on nutrient levels and administer frequent fertilisation as needed.

Harvest on a regular basis: Harvesting on a regular basis fosters sustained production and keeps plants from becoming excessively mature and susceptible to pests.

Autumn (October-November)

As the summer heat fades, temperatures begin to decrease, heralding the arrival of autumn. It's time to switch from warm-season to cool-season veggies and herbs.

Sow and transplant cool-season crops: Use the colder temperatures to sow and transplant cool-season crops like spinach, turnips, broccoli rabe and collard greens.

Protect plants from frost: If frost is forecast, protect sensitive plants with row covers or cold frames to extend the harvest season.

Mulch around plants: A layer of organic mulch can preserve moisture, inhibit weed development, and control soil temperature, all of which will benefit your autumn harvests.

Winter (December to March)

Winter in climatic zones 5 and 6 brings hibernation for many plants, but there are still gardening options.

Increase the yield of root vegetables: Root vegetables such as carrots, beets, and parsnips can be kept in the ground or in a cold root cellar all winter.

Hardy greens, such as kale, collard greens, and spinach, may tolerate mild frost and give fresh vegetables even in the winter.

Use raised beds or containers: Raised beds and containers improve soil drainage and aeration, lowering the danger of soil freezing and thawing over the winter.

Additional Gardening Advice for Climate Zones 5 and 6

Choose hardy types: Choose plant kinds that are well-adapted to your area's unique climate conditions.

Consider succession planting, which involves sowing seeds or transplanting seedlings in succession to lengthen the harvest season of certain crops.

Plant companion plants that enhance each other's development and discourage pests, such as basil near tomatoes to repel bugs.

Weather conditions should be monitored: Stay up to date on local weather forecasts to avoid frost, heat waves, or heavy rains, and alter your gardening operations accordingly.

Shield young seedlings: Use row covers or cloches to shield young seedlings from severe weather and pests.

Provide proper assistance: Tall plants, such as tomatoes and peppers, should be staked to prevent them from tipping over in windy circumstances.

Weeds compete with veggies for water, nutrients, and sunshine, therefore eliminate weeds on a regular basis to ensure healthy plant development.

Gardening is a dynamic activity that needs flexibility and patience. Accept the challenges and rewards that come with growing in a temperate climatic zone, and you'll be rewarded with wonderful, fresh produce for many seasons to come.

What are the Benefits of Gardening by the Moon?

 

Gardening by the moon, often known as lunar gardening, is an ancient approach that aligns gardening chores with the lunar cycle's many phases. The moon exerts gravitational pull on the earth, influencing tides, soil moisture, and plant growth. Gardeners may optimise their planting, harvesting, pruning, and other operations by focusing on the moon's phases, resulting in healthier, faster-growing, and more productive plants. 

What are the Benefits of Gardening by the Moon?

Gardening by the moon, also known as lunar gardening, is an ancient technique that synchronizes gardening activities with the different phases of the lunar cycle. The moon has a gravitational influence on the earth, affecting the tides, the soil moisture, and the plants themselves. By following the moon’s phases, gardeners can optimize their planting, harvesting, pruning, and other tasks, and enjoy healthier, faster-growing, and more productive plants.

Key Takeaways

What is gardening by the moon?

• It is a technique that aligns gardening activities with the moon’s phases and zodiac signs.

• It is based on the idea that the moon’s gravitational pull affects the water content in the soil and the plants.

• It is an ancient practice that connects gardeners with nature and their ancestors.

What are the benefits of gardening by the moon?

• It can improve plant growth, moisture retention, pest resistance, and seed germination.

• It can help gardeners manage their time and tasks more efficiently and effectively.

• It can deepen the gardener’s relationship with their plants and the celestial bodies.

How Does Gardening by the Moon Work?

The moon has four primary phases: the new moon, the first quarter or waxing moon, the full moon, and the last quarter or waning moon. Each phase lasts about seven days and has a distinct energy that aligns with specific types of plants and gardening activities.

New moon: This is when the moon is invisible in the sky and the gravitational pull is strongest. This phase stimulates root growth and encourages seeds to swell and sprout. It is the best time to plant seeds and transplant seedlings and young plants, especially those that produce their crops above the ground, such as leafy greens, herbs, flowers, and fruits.

First quarter or waxing moon: This is when the moon is growing in size and visibility, and the gravitational pull is decreasing. This phase promotes leaf and stem growth and increases the plant’s vitality. It is the best time to plant and transplant crops that have seeds inside, such as beans, peas, tomatoes, peppers, and squash.

Full moon: This is when the moon is fully visible and bright in the sky, and the gravitational pull is balanced. This phase boosts the plant’s moisture content and enhances the flavor and quality of the crops. It is the best time to harvest, especially root crops, such as carrots, potatoes, onions, and garlic, as well as herbs and flowers for medicinal and culinary purposes.

Last quarter or waning moon: This is when the moon is shrinking in size and visibility, and the gravitational pull is increasing. This phase encourages root growth and soil regeneration. It is the best time to prune, weed, mulch, compost, and fertilize, as well as to plant and transplant root crops and perennials, such as asparagus, rhubarb, artichokes, and berries.

In addition to the moon’s phases, lunar gardening also considers the moon’s passage through the twelve constellations of the zodiac, each associated with an element of earth, fire, air, or water. These elements are believed to influence different types of plants and their growth patterns.

Earth signs: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. These signs are favorable for planting and transplanting most crops, especially root crops and perennials. They are also good for harvesting and storing crops for long-term use.

Fire signs: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. These signs are unfavorable for planting and transplanting, as they tend to dry out the soil and the plants. They are good for weeding, pruning, and pest control, as well as for harvesting crops for immediate consumption.

Air signs: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. These signs are favorable for planting and transplanting crops that produce flowers and seeds, such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and sunflowers. They are also good for harvesting and drying herbs and flowers.

Water signs: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. These signs are favorable for planting and transplanting most crops, especially leafy greens, herbs, and fruits. They are also good for watering, mulching, and composting.

What are the Challenges of Gardening by the Moon?

Gardening by the moon is not a foolproof method that guarantees success in every situation. There are some challenges and limitations that gardeners should be aware of before adopting this technique.

Climate and weather: The moon’s phases and signs are not the only factors that affect plant growth and development. The local climate and weather conditions also play a major role in determining the best time to plant and harvest. For example, if there is a frost or a heat wave, it may not be advisable to follow the lunar calendar blindly. Gardeners should always consider the seasonal and daily variations in temperature, rainfall, sunlight, and wind, and adjust their plans accordingly.

Personal preference and availability: Gardening by the moon may not suit everyone’s lifestyle and schedule. Some gardeners may prefer to plant and harvest whenever they have the time and energy, rather than following a strict calendar. Others may have limited access to seeds, plants, tools, and other resources, and may not be able to follow the lunar phases and signs precisely. Gardeners should always prioritize their personal preference and availability, and use the lunar gardening as a guide, not a rule.

Lack of scientific evidence: Gardening by the moon is an ancient practice that has been passed down through generations of farmers and gardeners. However, there is not much scientific evidence to support its effectiveness and validity. Most of the studies that have been conducted on lunar gardening have been inconclusive, inconsistent, or flawed. Some skeptics argue that lunar gardening is based on superstition, coincidence, or confirmation bias, and that any benefits are due to other factors, such as soil quality, plant variety, or human care. Gardeners should always be critical and open-minded, and evaluate the results of lunar gardening for themselves.

How to Start Gardening by the Moon?

If you are interested in trying gardening by the moon, here are some steps you can take to get started:

Get a lunar calendar: A lunar calendar is a tool that shows the moon’s phases and signs for each day of the year. You can find lunar calendars online, in books, in magazines, or in apps. You can also create your own lunar calendar by observing the moon in the sky, or by using a website like Moon Phases Calendar or Moon Sign Calendar.

Plan your garden: Based on the lunar calendar, you can plan your garden activities according to the moon’s phases and signs. You can use the table below as a reference, or you can find more detailed information in books or websites like The Benefits of Moon Gardening, Gardening By the Moon, or [How Lunar Planting Works].

Moon Phase	Moon Sign	Garden Activity
New moon	Earth signs	Plant and transplant most crops, especially root crops and perennials. Harvest and store crops for long-term use.
First quarter or waxing moon	Fire signs	Weed, prune, and pest control. Harvest crops for immediate consumption.
Full moon	Air signs	Plant and transplant crops that produce flowers and seeds. Harvest and dry herbs and flowers.
Last quarter or waning moon	Water signs	Prune, weed, mulch, compost, and fertilize. Plant and transplant root crops and perennials. Water, mulch, and compost.

Observe and record: As you garden by the moon, you can observe and record the results of your actions. You can use a journal, a spreadsheet, or an app to keep track of the dates, the moon’s phases and signs, the plants, and the outcomes. You can also take photos, videos, or samples of your plants and crops. You can compare your results with previous years, with other gardeners, or with scientific data. You can also share your experiences and insights with others who are interested in lunar gardening.

Gardening by the moon is an ancient practice that has been used by gardeners and farmers for centuries. It involves aligning planting and gardening activities with the moon's phases to improve plant growth, moisture retention, and pest control

. Here are some steps to get started with moon gardening:

Understand the moon's phases: Familiarize yourself with the moon's phases and their impact on plant growth. The moon's phases can influence the health and vitality of plants

Use lunar calendars and planning tools: Utilize lunar calendars to track the moon's phases and plan your gardening activities accordingly

Observe lunar phases and moon signs: Learn to observe the moon's phases and signs in your local sky to better understand their effects on your garden

Employ complementary practices: Combine moon gardening with other sustainable gardening practices, such as composting and organic gardening, to maximize the benefits

Planting by moon phases:

When the moon is waxing (increasing in illumination): Plant annual flowers and above-ground vegetables during this time, as moisture is available at the soil surface

When the moon is waning (decreasing in illumination): Plant below-ground plants and flowering bulbs, as the moon's gravitational pull encourages root growth

When the moon is dark (no illumination): Avoid planting, as this is a resting period for plants

Weeding and pruning: Weed and prune your garden according to the moon's phases to promote healthy plant growth

.

Harvesting: Harvest your crops at the most opportune time, taking advantage of the moon's phases for optimal results

Remember that gardening by the moon is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Experiment with different planting times and observe the results to fine-tune your gardening practices

.

How do you determine the best time to plant by the moon

To determine the best time to plant by the moon, you need to understand the moon's phases and their impact on plant growth. According to, when the moon is waxing (increasing in illumination), it is best to plant annual flowers and above-ground vegetables, as moisture is available at the soil surface. On the other hand, when the moon is waning (decreasing in illumination), it is best to plant below-ground plants and flowering bulbs, as the moon's gravitational pull encourages root growth. It is also recommended to avoid planting during the dark phase of the moon, as this is a resting period for plants

Utilizing lunar calendars and planning tools, observing lunar phases and moon signs, and employing complementary practices such as composting and organic gardening can also help maximize the benefits of moon gardening

Conclusion

Gardening by the moon is a technique that aligns gardening activities with the moon’s phases and signs. It is based on the idea that the moon’s gravitational pull affects the water content in the soil and the plants. It is an ancient practice that connects gardeners with nature and their ancestors. It can improve plant growth, moisture retention, pest resistance, and seed germination. It can help gardeners manage their time and tasks more efficiently and effectively. It can deepen the gardener’s relationship with their plants and the celestial bodies.

However, gardening by the moon is not a foolproof method that guarantees success in every situation. There are some challenges and limitations that gardeners should be aware of before adopting this technique. These include climate and weather, personal preference and availability, and lack of scientific evidence. Gardeners should always consider the seasonal and daily variations in temperature, rainfall, sunlight, and wind, and adjust their plans accordingly. Gardeners should always prioritize their personal preference and availability, and use lunar gardening as a guide, not a rule. Gardeners should always be critical and open-minded, and evaluate the results of lunar gardening for themselves.

If you are interested in trying gardening by the moon, you can get a lunar calendar, plan your garden, observe and record the results, and share your experiences and insights with others. Gardening by the moon can be a rewarding and enjoyable way to grow your own food, flowers, and herbs, and to connect with nature and the cosmos.