March is one of the most exciting months in the gardening calendar. As the days grow longer and the soil slowly begins to warm, it’s the perfect time to lay the foundations for vibrant summer colour and rich autumn interest. At Verdis, we see March as a month of opportunity — a chance to shape the look, texture and feel of your garden for the seasons ahead.
One of the first priorities in March is planting herbaceous perennials that will establish quickly in the cool, moist soil. Reliable favourites such as Nepeta, Salvias and Echinacea offer structure and colour from early summer into autumn. When positioned carefully, perennials form the backbone of a garden design, returning year after year and evolving beautifully as they mature. Ornamental grasses can also be planted now, adding softness and texture that becomes especially striking in late summer and autumn when their seed heads catch the low golden light.
For those dreaming of dramatic late-season colour, March is the time to plant summer-flowering tubers. Dahlias and lilies can be started in pots under protection before being planted out after the last frosts. These bold bloomers deliver rich tones and architectural shapes that peak from midsummer well into autumn. Incorporating them into a layered planting design ensures continuous interest as earlier flowers begin to fade.
Vegetable and kitchen gardens also benefit from attention in March. Early sowings of lettuce, spinach and carrots set the stage for fresh summer harvests, while herbs such as parsley and chives establish quickly in the cool conditions. Even in ornamental gardens, we often integrate edible planting into borders and raised beds, blending productivity with beauty.
Shrubs and roses can also be planted now while they are still dormant or just breaking into growth. A thoughtfully chosen shrub provides structure and anchors the overall design. Whether it’s a long-flowering rose for summer romance or a late-blooming hydrangea for autumn drama, planting in March gives roots time to settle before the demands of warmer weather.
Above all, March is about preparation and vision. Good soil preparation, generous mulching and careful plant selection now will reward you with a garden that feels abundant and cohesive from June right through to October. By planting with both summer vibrancy and autumn richness in mind, you create a garden that doesn’t just peak once — but evolves gracefully across the seasons.
If you’re unsure where to begin, working with a professional garden design team can help you choose plants that suit your soil, light conditions and lifestyle, ensuring your outdoor space thrives long after March has passed.
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