As the frost recedes, the possibilities in our gardens expand. Around March 28, gardeners along the south coastal regions of British Columbia witness the last average frost date. This pivotal time signals a period of preparation and anticipation for the gardening season ahead. For those gardening in different climates, our Regional Planting Charts are a helpful resource to align your gardening activities with your local weather patterns.
March is an ideal time to start a variety of seeds. Those sown now will be ready for the garden when warmer nights in May beckon. Some seeds, especially those that can withstand a bit of frost and cooler weather, are perfect candidates for direct sowing this month. Explore our selection below for a range of seeds suited for March planting.
For starting indoors:
Agastache
Alyssum
Asclepias
Asparagus
Bergamot
Broccoli
Cabbage
Catnip
Cauliflower
Celery & Celeriac
Chives
Chrysanthemum
Columbine
Coreopsis
Cynoglossum
Delphinium
Echinacea
Florence Fennel (bulbing fennel)
Gaillardia
Gaura
Hollyhocks
Iberis
Leeks
Lettuce
Lobelia
Lovage
Marigolds
Marjoram
Mint
Morning Glory
Nemophila
Nicotiana
Onions
Oregano
Peppers
Physalis
Rosemary
Rudbeckia
Sage
Thyme
Tithonia
Tomatoes (March 15th is ideal, transplant end of May/early June)
Viola
Yarrow
Seeds to direct sow in March:
Ammi
Arugula
Broad Beans
Calendula
California Poppies
Celosia
Corn Salad
Cornflowers
Cosmos
Gypsophila
Kale & Collards
Lavatera (late in the month)
Lavender
Lunaria
Lupins
Marigolds
Pac Choi & Mustard Greens
Peas
Poppies
Radishes
Scabiosa
Spinach
Sweet Peas
Wildflower Mixes (March is the best time for these!)
These suggestions, while tailored for South Coastal BC, the Gulf Islands & Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Island, and regions west of the Cascades in Washington and Oregon, are adaptable for various gardening zones. For those living in different regions, we recommend utilizing our Regional Planting Charts, available as free PDF downloads for your convenience.