Autumn
WHAT TO PLANT IN MARCH
FRUIT AND VEGETABLES
Prepare the Soil: Beetroot prefers light, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant beetroot is from mid-April to July. However, in cooler climates, you can start sowing as early as March or as late as September.
Planting Method: Sow the seeds directly into the garden. Plant them 1 inch deep and 4 inches apart in rows that are 1 foot apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, especially during dry spells, to prevent the roots from becoming woody.
Harvesting: Beetroot is ready to harvest when the size of the root is between a golf ball and a tennis ball – this is usually 90 days after planting.
Remember, beetroot needs full sun (at least 4 hours of sunlight per day) to partial shade. They can tolerate frost, but young plants can be damaged by late spring frosts.
Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of about 8 inches and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to enrich it.
Sow the Seeds: Plant the broad bean seeds about 2 inches deep and 8 inches apart in rows. Space the rows about 18 inches apart.
Watering: Water the seeds thoroughly at planting time and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, as the beans germinate and grow.
Support: As the plants grow, they may need support. Place stakes at the end of the rows and run string or wire between them to help the plants stay upright.
Care: Keep the area weed-free and watch for pests. Pinch out the tops of the plants after the first pods have set to discourage blackfly and encourage further pod set.
Harvest: Broad beans are ready to harvest when the pods are well filled and the seeds inside are still tender.
Soil Preparation:
Use well-drained, loose soil free of stones.
Ensure deep soil tillage to allow for proper root development.Planting:
Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, directly in the garden.
Space seeds 2-3 inches apart in rows spaced 12 inches apart.Care:
Thin seedlings to 1-2 inches apart once they’re 2 inches tall.
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Weed carefully to avoid disturbing carrot roots.Harvest:
Carrots are ready to harvest when they reach desired size, typically in about 50-75 days.
Gently loosen soil around the carrots to pull them up without breaking.
Soil Preparation:
- Choose a location with full sun.
- Prepare the soil with rich compost or well-rotted manure to ensure it is fertile and well-drained.
- Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
- Space seedlings about 18-24 inches apart in rows 30 inches apart.
Care:
- Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist.
- Mulch to maintain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
- Fertilize with a high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote growth.
Blanche Heads (if desired):
- When the cauliflower head is about 2-3 inches in diameter, blanch it by tying the outer leaves over the head to protect it from the sun and maintain whiteness.
Harvest:
- Harvest cauliflower when the heads are compact, white, and firm.
- Cut the head from the main stem with a sharp knife, leaving some leaves attached to protect it.
Prepare the Soil: Leeks prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant leeks is in the early spring, about 2-3 weeks before the last frost.
Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors about 8-10 weeks before the outdoor planting date. Plant them 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.
Harvesting: Leeks are ready to harvest when the stalks are about 1 inch in diameter. This is usually 100-120 days after planting.
Remember, leeks need full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day).
Prepare the Soil: Lettuce prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant lettuce is in the early spring or fall. Avoid planting in the hot summer months.
Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last spring frost date. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in rows that are 12 to 18 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1-2 inches of water per week. Lettuce requires consistent moisture for optimal growth.
Harvesting: Lettuce is ready to harvest when the leaves reach your desired size. This is usually 30-60 days after planting.
Remember, lettuce needs full sun (at least 4 hours of sunlight per day) but can tolerate partial shade. They also prefer cooler weather.
Prepare the Soil: Onions prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant onions is in early spring, as soon as the ground can be worked in the spring.
Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors about 6 weeks before the outdoor planting date. Plant them 1 inch deep and 4-5 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.
Harvesting: Onions are ready to harvest when the tops have fallen over and turned brown. This is usually 100-120 days after planting.
Remember, onions need full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day).
Soil Preparation:
Choose a site with full sun to light shade.
Prepare deep, loose, and well-drained soil.
Remove stones and debris to prevent misshapen roots.Planting:
Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep.
Space seeds 1 inch apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.Care:
Thin seedlings to 3-6 inches apart once they’re 2 inches tall.
Keep soil moist but not soggy.
Weed carefully to avoid root damage.Harvest:
Parsnips are typically ready after the first frost, which sweetens their flavor.
Harvest by loosening the soil around the root and pulling gently.
Can be left in the ground through winter for spring harvest.
Prepare the Soil: Silverbeet prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant silverbeet is in the early spring or fall. It can tolerate a light frost.
Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden. Plant them 1/2 inch deep and 3-6 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1-2 inches of water per week. Silverbeet requires consistent moisture for optimal growth.
Harvesting: Silverbeet is ready to harvest when the leaves reach your desired size. This is usually 50-60 days after planting.
Remember, silverbeet needs full sun (at least 5 hours of sunlight per day) but can tolerate partial shade. They also prefer cooler weather.
Prepare the Soil: Spinach prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant spinach is in the early spring or fall. It can tolerate a light frost.
Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden. Plant them 1/2 inch deep and 2-3 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1-1.5 inches of water per week. Spinach requires consistent moisture for optimal growth.
Harvesting: Spinach is ready to harvest when the leaves reach your desired size. This is usually 37-45 days after planting.
Remember, spinach needs full sun (at least 3-4 hours of sunlight per day) but can tolerate partial shade. They also prefer cooler weather.
Soil Preparation:
Select a location with full sun.
Till the soil to a depth of 12-15 inches and remove any debris.
Mix in aged compost to enrich the soil.Planting:
Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
Space seeds 1 inch apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.Care:
Thin seedlings to 4-6 inches apart once they’re a few inches tall.
Keep the soil consistently moist.
Control weeds with regular, shallow cultivation.Harvest:
Harvest turnips when they are 2-3 inches in diameter for the best flavor.
Pull the turnips out of the ground by grasping the top of the root and gently wiggling it free.
HERBS
Prepare the Soil: Chives prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant chives is in the spring, about 4-6 weeks before the last frost.
Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors 8-10 weeks before the last spring frost date. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and 8-10 inches apart in rows that are 12 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.
Harvesting: Chives are ready to harvest about 60 days after planting. Cut the leaves down to the base when harvesting.
Remember, chives need full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day) but can tolerate partial shade.
Prepare the Soil: Coriander prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.2 and 6.8. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant coriander is in the late spring, after the last frost, and in the early fall.
Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart in rows that are 15 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.
Harvesting: Coriander is ready to harvest when the leaves start to mature. This is usually 3-4 weeks after planting for leaf harvest and about 45 days for seed harvest.
Remember, coriander needs full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day) but can tolerate light shade.
Prepare the Soil: Coriander prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.2 and 6.8. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant coriander is in the late spring, after the last frost, and in the early fall.
Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart in rows that are 15 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.
Harvesting: Coriander is ready to harvest when the leaves start to mature. This is usually 3-4 weeks after planting for leaf harvest and about 45 days for seed harvest.
Remember, coriander needs full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day) but can tolerate light shade.
Prepare the Soil: Mint prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant mint is in the spring, or in the fall in frost-free climates.
Planting Method: It’s best to start with a young plant from a nursery, as mint can be difficult to grow from seed. Plant them 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 24 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1-2 inches of water per week.
Harvesting: Mint is ready to harvest as soon as it comes up and can be harvested until the first hard freeze.
Remember, mint needs full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day).
Prepare the Soil: Oregano prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant oregano is in the early spring, as soon as the ground can be worked.
Planting Method: Start seeds indoors 6-10 weeks before the last spring frost date, or buy young plants from a nursery. Transplant them 8-10 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.
Harvesting: Oregano is ready to harvest as soon as the plant begins to bud. Cut the stems down to the ground, leaving about 2 inches.
Remember, oregano needs full sun (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day).
Prepare the Soil: Parsley prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant parsley is in the early spring, about 2-3 weeks before the last frost.
Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors 10-12 weeks before the last spring frost date. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and 6-8 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1-2 inches of water per week.
Harvesting: Parsley is ready to harvest as soon as the plant has three segments. This is usually 70-90 days after planting.
Remember, parsley needs full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight per day).
. Select the Right Location
Full sun exposure.
Well-draining soil.
3. Prepare the Soil
Enrich with compost or well-rotted manure.
Ensure pH is between 6.5 and 7.0.
4. Planting
Seeds: Transplant seedlings when they are 3-4 inches tall.
Stalks: Plant rooted stalks in the soil, leaving the top exposed.
5. Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
6. Fertilizing
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
7. Harvesting
Harvest when stalks are 12 inches tall, cutting just above the root base.
Choose a Location: Marjoram thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Select a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and mix in compost to improve fertility and drainage.
Sow Seeds or Transplants: Plant marjoram seeds or seedlings. If using seeds, sprinkle them on the soil surface and lightly press them in. For transplants, dig holes twice the size of the root ball and space them 8-10 inches apart.
Watering: After planting, water gently. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Care and Maintenance: Once established, marjoram requires minimal care. Pinch back the tips to encourage bushy growth and harvest leaves as needed.
Choose a Location: Marjoram thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Select a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and mix in compost to improve fertility and drainage.
Sow Seeds or Transplants: Plant marjoram seeds or seedlings. If using seeds, sprinkle them on the soil surface and lightly press them in. For transplants, dig holes twice the size of the root ball and space them 8-10 inches apart.
Watering: After planting, water gently. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Care and Maintenance: Once established, marjoram requires minimal care. Pinch back the tips to encourage bushy growth and harvest leaves as needed.
Soil Preparation:
Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Tarragon prefers a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.Planting:
Plant divisions or cuttings about 18-24 inches apart to allow for growth.
If using seeds, sow them lightly on the soil surface, as tarragon seeds need light to germinate.Care:
Water regularly, but be careful not to overwater – tarragon does not like soggy roots.
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth.Harvest:
Harvest leaves as needed, preferably in the morning when the oils are strongest.
Cut the stems just above a growth node to promote new growth.
For drying, harvest just before the plant flowers for the best flavor.
- Choose a Sunny Location: Thyme thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil and mix in compost to improve fertility.
- Sow Seeds or Plant Seedlings: Plant seeds or young thyme plants spacing them about 9 inches apart.
- Water Gently: Keep the soil moist until the thyme is established.
- Mulch: Apply a light layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Harvest: Once established, harvest thyme sprigs as needed, cutting back to encourage bushy growth.
FLOWERS
Prepare the Soil: Alyssum prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility.
Planting Time: The best time to plant alyssum is in the early spring, after the last frost.
Planting Method: Sow seeds directly into the garden or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost date. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and 6-9 inches apart in rows that are 12 inches apart.
Watering: Water the plants thoroughly after planting. Then, water regularly, giving the plants 1 inch of water per week.
Harvesting: Alyssum is grown for its flowers, which can be enjoyed throughout the growing season. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Remember, alyssum needs full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day).
Soil Preparation:
Choose a location with partial to full shade, as Cineraria prefers cooler conditions.
Ensure the soil is rich, well-drained, and maintains consistent moisture.Planting:
Sow seeds on the surface of a well-moistened soil mix, as they need light to germinate.
Do not cover the seeds with soil; just press them gently into the soil surface.
Space transplants about 12-15 inches apart to allow for mature growth.Care:
Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Remove faded flowers to promote further blooming and maintain plant vigor.Harvest:
Cineraria is primarily grown for its showy flowers and is not typically “harvested.”
However, you can cut blooms for display in floral arrangements. Do this early in the morning and place them in water immediately.
Soil Preparation:
Choose a location with partial shade, as full sun can be too intense.
Ensure the soil is moist, well-drained, and rich in organic matter.Planting:
Scatter seeds on the soil surface or lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil (about 1/8 inch deep).
Space plants or thin seedlings to about 4-6 inches apart.Care:
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist.
Mulch to help retain moisture and control weeds.
Deadhead spent flowers to prevent excessive self-seeding, if desired.Harvest:
Forget-me-nots are typically grown for their charming flowers and are not harvested.
For bouquets, cut stems early in the morning when flowers are freshest.
Soil Preparation:
Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Lupins prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
Avoid heavy, wet soils as lupins do not tolerate waterlogged conditions.Planting:
Soak seeds overnight to soften the hard seed coat, or nick the seeds with a file.
Plant seeds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
Space seeds or seedlings 12-18 inches apart to give each plant room to grow.Care:
Water plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater.
Apply a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize sparingly; lupins fix their own nitrogen and excessive fertilizer can encourage leaf growth over flower production.Pest and Disease Management:
Keep an eye out for slugs and snails, especially on young plants.
Practice good air circulation around plants to prevent fungal diseases.Harvest:
Lupins are primarily grown for their showy flower spikes and are not typically harvested.
If desired, cut flower spikes for arrangements when the lower third of the flowers on the spike have opened.t.
Soil Preparation:
Choose a location with full sun to partial shade.
Ensure the soil is rich, well-drained, and has a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.Planting:
Sow seeds lightly covered with soil, as they require darkness to germinate.
Space seedlings or plants about 6-8 inches apart.Care:
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Apply a general-purpose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.Harvest:
Pansies are grown for their colorful flowers and can be picked for small bouquets.
Cut flowers early in the morning when they are freshest.
Soil Preparation:
Choose a location with partial shade, as primulas prefer cooler conditions.
Ensure the soil is rich, moist, and well-drained with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.Planting:
Sow seeds on the surface of a moist seed-starting mix, as they need light to germinate.
Do not cover the seeds with soil; just press them gently into the surface.
Space plants about 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.Care:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture and keep roots cool.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.Harvest:
Primulas are primarily grown for their vibrant flowers and are not typically harvested.
If desired, you can cut flowers for indoor arrangements. Do this early in the morning when the blooms are most hydrated.
Select a Suitable Location
Full sun to partial shade.
Well-draining soil.Prepare the Soil
Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches.
Mix in compost or well-rotted manure for fertility.Sow the Seeds
Scatter seeds on the soil surface.
Lightly cover with soil (about 1/4 inch deep).
Water gently but thoroughly.Care for Seedlings
Keep the soil moist until germination.
Thin seedlings to 8-12 inches apart once they’re a few inches tall.
How to Plant Cyclamen
Choose the Right Time: Plant cyclamen corms in late summer or early fall.
Select a Suitable Location: Find a spot with well-drained soil and partial shade.
Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil and mix in organic matter to improve drainage.
Planting Depth: Plant corms about 1-2 inches deep with the concave side facing up.
Spacing: Space corms about 6-10 inches apart.
Watering: Water lightly; cyclamen prefer to be on the drier side.
Mulching: Apply a light layer of mulch to keep the roots cool and moist.
Choose a Location: Poppies need full sun and well-draining soil.
Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and mix in compost if needed.
Sow Seeds: Scatter seeds thinly over the soil surface in spring or fall. Do not cover them, as they need light to germinate.
Water Gently: Mist the area to keep it moist until germination, which usually takes 10-15 days.
Thin Seedlings: Once seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to stand 6-8 inches apart.
Care and Maintenance: Water during extended dry periods and deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
1. Choose a Location
Select a spot with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
2. Prepare the Soil
Till the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and mix in compost or a balanced fertilizer.
3. Sow Seeds or Plant Seedlings
For seeds:
Sow directly in the ground after the last frost.
Plant seeds 1/8 inch deep and space them 6-12 inches apart.
For seedlings:
Gently remove the plant from its container.
Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball.
Place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil.
4. Water Regularly
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Choose a Sunny Spot: Sweet peas thrive in full sun, so pick a location that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a good depth, adding compost or well-rotted manure to enrich it.
Sow Seeds: Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 2 inches apart. If starting indoors, use biodegradable pots to avoid root disturbance when transplanting.
Provide Support: Sweet peas need something to climb on. Install a trellis or netting before the plants start to grow.
Water Regularly: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells.
Pinch Out Tips: When seedlings are 4-6 inches tall, pinch out the tips to encourage bushy growth.
