Planting in March
March marks the start of spring, so growers throughout Florida can plant warm-season crops this month. Take advantage of the weather by following these gardening suggestions based on Florida’s climate zones. You can find your region using the gardening region map.
North Florida
Annuals: While cool-season annuals, such as dianthus, will continue to do well in March, you should consider planting warm-season annuals, such as angelonia and zinnia, at the end of the month.
Bulbs: March is the time to plant canna, dahlia, and gloriosa for spring and summer flowering bulbs. Be sure to plant these in beds modified with organic matter.
Herbs: Try growing edible garlic when it gets warmer. You can also plant a rhizome in an area with well-drained soil and full to partial sun.
Vegetables: Plant squash, corn, and other warm-season crops in early March for a late spring harvest, but remember to protect these vegetables from frost.
Central Florida
Annuals: Replace your garden’s declining winter annuals with varieties (such as angelonia and gazania) that will provide color now, as well as in the summer.
Bulbs: Plant caladium in March for a tropical display during the summer.
Herbs: Consider planting herbs for cooking and to attract butterflies to your garden. Read Herbs in the Florida Garden to learn more about planting herbs.
Vegetables: Plant warm-season crops, such as eggplant and summer squash, now for a harvest in late spring.
South Florida
Annuals: Opt for heat-tolerant annuals that provide color such as crossandra and zinnia—these will last into the fall.
Bulbs: For a tropical summer display, plant caladiums now. You can also plant gladiola corms this month; they should be planted 6 inches apart, 4 inches deep, and you should add stakes as they grow.
Herbs: Plant herbs in your garden for culinary and ornamental value.
Vegetables: Warm-season crops, including watermelon and cucumber, can be planted in March for a late spring harvest.
Adapted and excerpted from:
“Florida Gardening Calendar,” UF/IFAS Florida Gardening Calendar (Accessed 02/2014).
Related Sites & Articles
- Hot Topics
- Eggplant Pest Management
- Herbs for Spring
- UF/IFAS Publications
- Caladium x hortulanum Caladium
- Dahlia spp. Dahlia
- Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide
