Flower/Landscape Gardens
- Remove any protective evergreen tree boughs, before growth begins.
- Remove extra layers of winter mulch from marginally hardy plants and Roses.
- Deadhead pansies regularly to prevent seed formation and promote flower production. Liquid feed pansies with fish emulsion, monthly if soil is not frozen.
- Protect emerging bulbs, especially tulips and lilies, from deer and rabbits with repellent or physical barriers such as cages.
- If not already done in February, cut back ornamental grasses.
- If necessary, divide summer-blooming perennials, such as Iris, Daylilies and Echinacea.
- Once temperatures have stabilized (usually mid to late March) Roses can be pruned hard for good growth and maximum bloom. Check your rose type before pruning.
- Prune out broken and winter damaged branches of shrubs.
- Finish formative and structural pruning of summer and fall flowering trees and shrubs.
- Prune and train Wisteria for maximum bloom in the spring.
- Weed, feed and till new gardens as soon as the ground has dried out and can be worked. This is a great time to incorporate compost or other organic matter into the beds.
- Plant dormant shrubs, trees and perennials now.
- Transplant deciduous trees and shrubs while they are still dormant.
- Clean leaves and debris caught up in perennials, roses and shrubs and complete application of a 1/4″ to 1/2″ layer of compost and an annual 2″ layer of mulch. It is best to apply organic materials before plants begin to grow and leaf-out.
- To prevent animal browsing place cages around emerging lilies while they are still small and easy to work with.
- Apply compost to turf in mid-March as a fertilizer. After applying compost, overseed bare or thin lawn areas, unless you are using crabgrass preventer which will kill seedlings trying to grow.
- Apply compost before mulching to trees, shrubs and perennials before growth begins.
- Turn on outdoor faucets and set up soaker hose system while perennials are small but visible and before new growth has emerged on woody plants.
- Remove layers of burlap placed below bird feeders to catch dropped seed in order to prevent unwanted seed germination.
- Apply deer repellents regularly, especially after rain and snow, especially to emerging bulbs.
Inside
- Sow warm season vegetable seeds indoors, like tomatoes and peppers.
- Keep seedlings started indoors cool at night. If possible, move to a cold frame to harden off before planting outside
- Order summer flowering bulbs, like Caladiums, Dahlias, Gladiolus, Lilies,Cannas, for best selection.
Vegetable Garden & Fruit Trees
- Begin to prepare annual and vegetable garden beds.
- As soon as the ground has dried out and can be worked is a great time to incorporate compost or other organic matter into the beds.
- Test soil and make adjustments to the pH.
- Prune dormant fruit trees and remove leaves and other debris from underneath to prevent disease.
- Plant grapevines, fruit trees, berry bushes, Rhubarb and Asparagus.
- Sow seeds of leeks, mustard, onions, peas, lettuce, celery, turnips, carrots, beets, parsnips, radish, potato and parsley directly into the ground.
Call Designs for Greener Gardens at 410-626-6122 to help you with your March garden needs!
