What to do in the yard/garden during March
Planting
• Plant new roses before March 15.
• Broad-leaved Evergreens such as Magnolia and Holly can be set out at this time.
• Plant cold weather annuals Sweet William, English Daisies, Pansies, and Calendulas.
• Divide Mondo Grass and Liriope. Divide Cannas, Chrysanthemums, Coreopsis, Phlox, and Obedient Plant.
• Start seeds for Tomatoes, Bell peppers, and Eggplant. Set out Thyme, Lemon Balm, Oregano, Chives, Sage, and Winter Savory.
• Sow seeds of Johnny Jump-ups, Sweet Peas, Larkspur, Forget-me-nots, and Baby Blue Eyes.
• Flowering shrubs may be moved at this time. Larger shrubs should be moved with a ball of dirt and smaller shrubs may be moved bare-rooted.
• This is the best month to move Crape myrtles.
• Lawns may be sodded at this time. Plant Gladiolus throughout this month for continuous bloom. Plant Hostas.
• Caladiums can be started in outdoor containers as soon as weather warms.
Fertilizing
• Fertilize all the garden except acid-loving plants.
• Top-dress Camellias with azalea-camellia fertilizer.
• Lime Peonies, Clematis, and Boxwoods.
Pest Control
• Spray new rose leaves for black spot weekly.
Pruning
• Prune roses at this time. Remove dead and weak canes. Properly dispose of clippings.
• Prune Crape myrtles and Altheas.
• Prune evergreens for shape and size as early in the month as possible.
• Cut English Ivy back very hard. It will come back very nicely in the spring.
• Trim Mondo Grass and Liriope with lawn mower set on highest setting (6 inches). Dispose of trimmings.
Mulch
• Replenish mulch around Azaleas and Camellias.
Miscellaneous
• Dispose of fallen Camellias blossoms to prevent blight.
• Rake up seed hulls from under bird feeders. They will smother new growth.
• Remove dead flowers from tulips and daffodils. Do not cut foliage before it turns yellow and dies.
Home Accent
• Divide or repot overgrown houseplants. Cut back weak parts to encourage new growth. Apply fertilizer every 2 weeks or so.
