Welcome to the March edition of our gardening guide! As the embrace of winter loosens its grip, our gardens come alive with the promise of spring. In this month’s tips, we’re your companions on the journey of March gardening – a time of budding possibilities and vibrant renewal. From nurturing soil to coaxing forth new life, each tip is crafted to guide you through essential tasks, ensuring your garden blossoms into a thriving outdoor haven.

1. Prepare for Spring Planting: Gear up for the upcoming spring by planning and organising your garden. Order seeds, bulbs, and plants to ensure your garden is well-prepared for the burst of life that awaits.
2. Soil Testing: Delve into soil testing to understand your garden’s pH level and nutrient content. This knowledge will guide your decisions on fertilizers and soil amendments, setting the stage for healthy plant growth.
3. Prune Fruit Trees: March signals the ideal time to prune fruit trees before the onset of new growth. Trim away dead or diseased branches, shaping the tree for optimal air circulation and a fruitful season.
4. Start Seedlings Indoors: Give your garden a head start by sowing seeds indoors. From tomatoes to flowers, use seed trays and quality compost to nurture seedlings that will soon grace your outdoor space.
5. Protect Against Frost: Stay vigilant against late frosts by covering tender plants with horticultural fleece or cloches. Shielding them overnight ensures their continued growth and resilience.
6. Mulching: Embrace mulching as a protective measure for your flower beds. Suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and regulate temperature fluctuations for a thriving garden environment.
7. Pruning Shrubs: Shape the landscape by pruning late-flowering shrubs like hydrangeas and buddleia. Remove weak or dead stems to encourage robust growth in the coming months.
8. Divide Perennials: Rejuvenate overcrowded perennials by dividing and transplanting them. This thoughtful practice promotes healthier growth and more vibrant blooms.
9. Clean and Sharpen Tools: Equip yourself for efficient gardening tasks by cleaning and sharpening your tools. Well-maintained implements enhance your gardening experience and prevent the spread of diseases.
10. Plan Companion Planting: Craft your garden layout with companion planting in mind. Maximise the benefits of certain plants grown together, enhancing their growth and health.
11. Start Composting: Initiate or continue composting efforts with kitchen scraps and garden waste. Enrich your soil with nutrient-packed compost to fortify your garden’s vitality.
12. Inspect Garden Structures: Survey trellises, stakes, and garden structures for damage. Repair or replace as needed, providing essential support for climbing plants and preserving the visual appeal of your garden.
13. Bird Feeding: Extend hospitality to feathered friends by providing food and water. Bird feeders and baths attract a diverse array of visitors, enhancing the lively atmosphere of your garden.
14. Inspect for Pests: Maintain vigilance against pests by checking for early signs and implementing control measures. A proactive approach safeguards your garden’s health.
15. Educate Yourself: Seize the quieter gardening period to expand your knowledge. Explore new techniques, plant varieties, or sustainable practices through workshops, books, or online resources.

By embracing these tips, you’re set on a course towards a flourishing garden in March.  For advice on what to plant  pop in and see us at The Otter Nursery.