What Flowers Can I Plant in March? And Why Do They Make My Neighbor's Cat Jealous?

March is a magical time for gardeners. As winter’s grip loosens and the first signs of spring emerge, it’s the perfect moment to start planting flowers that will bloom into vibrant displays of color. But what flowers can you plant in March? The answer depends on your climate, soil type, and whether you’re planting indoors or outdoors. Let’s dive into the world of March planting and explore the best floral options for this transitional month.
1. Pansies: The Cold-Weather Champions
Pansies are one of the most popular flowers to plant in March, especially in cooler climates. These hardy annuals can withstand light frosts and even snow, making them ideal for early spring planting. Their cheerful faces come in a rainbow of colors, from deep purples to bright yellows, and they thrive in both garden beds and containers. Plus, they’re edible! Add a few petals to your salad for a pop of color and a mild, lettuce-like flavor.
2. Daffodils: The Harbingers of Spring
If you missed planting daffodil bulbs in the fall, don’t worry—March is a great time to plant them as pre-grown plants. These iconic spring flowers symbolize renewal and are incredibly low-maintenance. They’re also deer-resistant, which is a bonus if you live in an area with wildlife. Plant them in clusters for a dramatic effect, and watch as their golden blooms brighten up your garden.
3. Primroses: The Early Bloomers
Primroses are another excellent choice for March planting. These perennials come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, white, and yellow. They prefer cool weather and partial shade, making them perfect for early spring. Primroses are also known for their ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, so they’re a great addition to any eco-friendly garden.
4. Sweet Peas: The Fragrant Climbers
Sweet peas are a favorite among gardeners for their intoxicating fragrance and delicate, pastel-colored blooms. March is the ideal time to sow sweet pea seeds directly into the ground or start them indoors for transplanting later. These climbing plants need support, so be sure to provide a trellis or fence for them to grow on. Their scent is so delightful that even your neighbor’s cat might pause to sniff the air.
5. Snapdragons: The Playful Perennials
Snapdragons are a fun and versatile flower to plant in March. These perennials (often grown as annuals) come in a wide range of colors and heights, from dwarf varieties to towering spikes. They’re cold-tolerant and can handle the unpredictable weather of early spring. Snapdragons are also great for cutting gardens, as their long stems make them perfect for bouquets.
6. Lilies: The Majestic Beauties
March is the perfect time to plant lily bulbs. These stunning flowers come in many varieties, including Asiatic, Oriental, and Trumpet lilies. They prefer well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight, so choose a spot in your garden that gets at least six hours of direct sun each day. Lilies are known for their dramatic blooms and intoxicating fragrance, making them a showstopper in any garden.
7. Calendula: The Edible Healer
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a versatile flower that’s easy to grow in March. Its bright orange and yellow blooms are not only beautiful but also edible and medicinal. Calendula petals can be used to make soothing teas, salves, and even natural dyes. These hardy annuals thrive in cool weather and can tolerate light frosts, making them a great choice for early spring planting.
8. Violas: The Miniature Marvels
Violas are close relatives of pansies but are smaller and more delicate. They’re perfect for adding a splash of color to borders, containers, and hanging baskets. Violas are cold-tolerant and can bloom well into the summer if deadheaded regularly. Their petite flowers come in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, yellow, and white.
9. Lupines: The Wildflower Wonders
Lupines are a striking choice for March planting, especially if you’re looking to create a cottage garden or wildflower meadow. These tall, spiky flowers come in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Lupines are also nitrogen-fixers, meaning they improve soil quality by adding nitrogen back into the ground.
10. Alyssum: The Groundcover Gem
Alyssum is a low-growing annual that’s perfect for filling in gaps between larger plants or creating a carpet of color in your garden. Its tiny, fragrant flowers come in shades of white, pink, and purple. Alyssum is easy to grow from seed and thrives in cool weather, making it an excellent choice for March planting. Plus, it’s a magnet for beneficial insects like hoverflies and lacewings.
Why Do These Flowers Make My Neighbor’s Cat Jealous?
While your neighbor’s cat might not actually be jealous of your garden, there’s no denying that a well-planted March garden is a sight to behold. The vibrant colors, intoxicating scents, and buzzing pollinators create a lively atmosphere that even the most aloof feline can’t ignore. So, whether you’re planting pansies, daffodils, or sweet peas, your garden is sure to be the envy of the neighborhood—cats included.
FAQs
Q: Can I plant roses in March?
A: Yes, March is a great time to plant bare-root roses. Make sure to choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Q: What flowers can I plant in March if I live in a warm climate?
A: In warmer climates, consider planting marigolds, zinnias, or sunflowers in March. These heat-loving flowers will thrive as the weather warms up.
Q: How do I protect my March-planted flowers from late frosts?
A: Use frost cloths or mulch to protect young plants from unexpected frosts. You can also plant in containers and move them indoors if necessary.
Q: Are there any flowers I shouldn’t plant in March?
A: Avoid planting tropical flowers like hibiscus or bougainvillea in March, as they prefer warmer temperatures and may not survive late frosts.
Q: Can I plant wildflower seeds in March?
A: Absolutely! March is a great time to sow wildflower seeds, especially in cooler climates. Just make sure to prepare the soil properly and keep it moist until the seeds germinate.