March marks a pivotal moment in gardening as it sets the stage for a vibrant and fruitful summer harvest. With the soil warming up, it’s the perfect time to sow a variety of vegetables that will thrive in the upcoming months.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this list of 36 vegetables offers something for everyone. From the classic favorites to the more unique varieties, planting these vegetables in March will ensure a bountiful harvest come summer.
1. Carrots
The ground is finally ready to welcome new beginnings. Carrots, those crunchy, sweet root veggies, are perfect to sow in March. They sprout best when the soil has started to warm up but isn’t too hot.
Make sure the soil is loose and free of stones to help those roots grow long and straight. Carrots take a bit of patience, as they take several weeks to germinate.
Once they’re off, though, you’ll have a fresh supply ready to pull up and munch all summer long. Keep them hydrated, but not soggy, for the best results.
2. Lettuce
The cool, crisp days of March are ideal for sowing lettuce seeds. This leafy green thrives when temperatures are mild, making it a perfect choice for early spring planting.
There’s a wide variety to choose from, whether you prefer the tender leaves of butterhead or the crunchy crispness of romaine. Sow seeds directly into the soil and keep them moist, but not waterlogged.
Lettuce grows quickly, so you’ll be enjoying fresh salads in no time. Regular harvesting encourages new growth, ensuring a continuous supply throughout the summer months.
3. Radishes
March is just right for the quick-growing radish. With its peppery bite, this root vegetable adds a punch to any dish.
Radishes are one of the easiest vegetables to grow, making them perfect for beginner gardeners. Just sow the seeds directly into the ground, and in a few short weeks, they’ll be ready to harvest.
They thrive in cool weather, so starting them early is key. Keep the soil consistently moist to prevent them from becoming too woody. Enjoy them fresh in salads, or as a crunchy snack.
4. Spinach
In March, as the days lengthen, spinach seeds should find their way into the earth. This leafy green thrives in cooler temperatures and provides a nutritional powerhouse for your diet.
Spinach seeds germinate quickly, and the plants are ready for harvest in a few short weeks. Plant them in rows, ensuring they have plenty of space.
With regular watering, you’ll have a continuous supply of fresh leaves. Spinach can be harvested multiple times, as picking the leaves encourages new growth, perfect for salads and sautés.
5. Peas
March is prime time for planting peas, as they love the cool spring weather. With their sweet pods, peas are a delightful addition to any garden.
Sow seeds directly into the soil and provide support as they grow, using trellises or sticks. They’re a perfect choice for vertical gardening enthusiasts.
Peas are not only tasty but also enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen. Harvest them regularly to encourage more pods and enjoy them straight from the vine as a fresh snack or added to meals.
6. Beets
March is the perfect month to start beets in your garden. These vibrant root vegetables offer both edible roots and greens.
Sow the seeds directly into the ground, taking care to space them properly for room to grow. Beets prefer cool weather, so early spring is ideal.
They require consistent moisture, so ensure the soil is kept damp but not soaked. Harvest the roots when they’re about the size of a golf ball for the best flavor. Enjoy them roasted, pickled, or fresh in salads.
7. Chard
Chard, with its vibrant stems and lush leaves, is a fantastic addition to any spring garden. It’s hardy and easy to grow, making March an excellent time to plant it.
Sow chard seeds directly into the garden, and soon you’ll see those colorful stems pushing through the soil. Chard thrives in well-drained soil, so ensure your garden bed is prepared.
Harvest the leaves regularly to promote new growth. It’s a versatile vegetable, delicious in everything from salads to sautés, bringing color and nutrition to your meals.
8. Kale
Kale is a cold-hardy vegetable, making March an ideal time to sow its seeds. Known for its nutrient-rich leaves, kale is a staple for health-conscious gardeners.
Plant the seeds in well-drained soil and keep them consistently moist. As they grow, you’ll see those distinctive curly leaves unfurl.
Kale benefits from regular harvesting, which encourages new leaf growth. Enjoy it in fresh salads, smoothies, or cooked dishes. Plus, its cold tolerance means it’ll keep producing even as temperatures fluctuate.
9. Onions
March is the time to get onions into the ground. These versatile veggies are a staple in countless recipes.
Plant onion sets or seeds in well-drained soil, ensuring they have plenty of sunlight. As they grow, they’ll send up green shoots, and soon you’ll have a supply ready for cooking.
Onions require patience, as they take a while to mature. However, the payoff is a homegrown supply of fresh onions that can last for months. Keep the area weed-free for the best results.
10. Parsley
Parsley, with its fresh flavor and versatility, is an excellent choice for March sowing. This hardy herb thrives in cool conditions and enhances a variety of dishes.
Plant parsley seeds in a sunny spot and keep the soil consistently moist. It takes a bit longer to germinate, so patience is key.
Once established, regular harvesting will encourage continuous growth. Parsley can be used fresh or dried, adding a burst of flavor to your culinary creations. It’s a must-have for any herb garden.
11. Turnips
Turnips are one of those hardy vegetables that are perfect for March planting. Both their roots and greens are edible, offering a two-for-one harvest.
Sow turnip seeds directly into the soil, ensuring they have space to grow. They thrive in cool weather, so early spring is ideal.
Keep the soil consistently moist to promote healthy growth. Harvest when the roots are young and tender for the best flavor. Enjoy them roasted, mashed, or fresh, while the greens make a nutritious addition to salads.
12. Broccoli
With March’s cool temperatures, broccoli seeds find their ideal conditions. This nutrient-dense vegetable is packed with flavor and health benefits.
Plant seeds or young plants in well-drained soil, ensuring they have space to grow. Regular watering is essential to support their development.
Harvest the heads when they are firm and tight for the best taste. Broccoli thrives in cool weather, so starting now will ensure a productive season. Enjoy it steamed, roasted, or fresh from the garden.
13. Cabbage
March offers the perfect climate for sowing cabbage, with its preference for cooler weather. This leafy vegetable is a garden staple, offering a robust flavor and crunchy texture.
Plant cabbage seeds in fertile, well-drained soil. As they grow, the leaves will form tight heads, ready for harvest.
Regular watering and pest control are crucial for healthy growth. Cabbage can be enjoyed fermented, sautéed, or fresh in slaws. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any garden.
14. Cauliflower
March is the time to plant cauliflower, taking advantage of the cool weather it prefers. This versatile vegetable is known for its mild flavor and nutritional benefits.
Sow seeds or plant young seedlings in well-drained soil. Ensure consistent moisture to support healthy growth and development.
Harvest when the heads are firm and white, avoiding overexposure to sun which can cause discoloration. Cauliflower is delicious roasted, steamed, or as a rice substitute, making it a great addition to your garden and your meals.
15. Brussels Sprouts
For a garden full of flavor, March is the ideal month to plant Brussels sprouts. These mini cabbages thrive in cooler temperatures.
Plant seeds or young plants in well-drained soil. Regular watering and a bit of patience are key, as they take time to mature.
Harvest when the sprouts are firm and green, picking from the bottom up. Brussels sprouts are tasty roasted or sautéed, bringing a rich, nutty flavor to your table. They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.
16. Leeks
March is the perfect time to plant leeks. These mild-flavored, onion-like vegetables are a valuable addition to any culinary garden.
Start by sowing seeds in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. As they grow, ensure they are consistently watered.
Leeks take a while to mature, but the wait is worth it for their subtle, sweet taste. Harvest them when they reach about an inch in diameter. Leeks are perfect for soups, stews, and a variety of savory dishes, adding a delicate flavor that’s hard to beat.
17. Celery
Celery is a bit of a challenge but worth the effort, and March is the right time to start planting. This crunchy vegetable thrives in cool weather.
Sow seeds in fertile, well-drained soil and keep them consistently moist. Celery requires patience and careful attention to watering and soil conditions.
Harvest when the stalks are firm and crisp. Celery is a versatile vegetable, perfect for snacking, cooking, or adding to salads. Its refreshing crunch and flavor make it a rewarding addition to your garden.
18. Parsnips
March is the time for parsnips to make their way into the garden. Their sweet, nutty flavor is a winter staple you can plan for now.
These root vegetables prefer cooler temperatures so planting early in the spring is ideal. Sow them directly in the ground, ensuring deep soil to accommodate their long roots.
Parsnips take a while to mature, often not ready until late fall. However, their sweetness intensifies after frost, making them worth the wait. Enjoy them roasted, mashed, or in stews.
19. Mustard Greens
March is the opportune moment to plant mustard greens, known for their peppery kick. These leafy greens add a spicy twist to your garden and meals.
They prefer cooler temperatures and can be sown directly into the soil. Keep the soil moist to ensure healthy growth.
Regular harvesting keeps the leaves tender and encourages more growth. Mustard greens can be enjoyed in salads, stir-fries, or as a spicy side dish. Their bold flavor makes them a standout choice among leafy vegetables.
20. Arugula
Arugula, with its peppery leaves, is perfect for sowing in March. This fast-growing green thrives in cool temperatures and adds zest to salads.
Sow seeds directly into the soil and keep them moist. Within a few short weeks, you’ll have fresh leaves ready to pick.
Regular harvesting encourages more growth, providing a continuous supply. Arugula is delicious in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish, offering a unique flavor that stands out in any dish. It’s a quick and satisfying addition to your garden.
21. Collard Greens
March is prime time for planting collard greens. These nutritious leafy greens are a staple in many cuisines, known for their hearty texture.
Plant seeds in well-drained soil and water consistently. Collards thrive in cool weather, making early spring the perfect time to start.
Harvesting the leaves regularly promotes new growth. They can be enjoyed steamed, sautéed, or as a wrap alternative. Collard greens are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any meal. Their robust flavor and versatility make them a favorite.
22. Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi, with its unique bulbous shape, is a wonderful vegetable to sow in March. It loves the cool temperatures of early spring.
Sow seeds in fertile soil and keep them well-watered. As the plants grow, their swollen stems will develop just above the soil line.
Harvest them when they’re about the size of a tennis ball for the best texture and flavor. Kohlrabi can be eaten raw, roasted, or added to salads for a crunchy bite. Its mild, sweet flavor makes it a fun addition to your garden.
23. Endive
March is the time to plant endive, a leafy green known for its slightly bitter flavor. This cool-weather crop is perfect for early spring.
Sow seeds in well-drained soil and ensure they’re kept consistently moist. As the plants grow, their leaves will form rosettes.
Harvest when the leaves are tender. Endive adds a unique flavor to salads and sandwiches, providing a delightful contrast to sweeter greens. Its crisp texture and distinctive taste make it a gourmet choice for your garden.
24. Fennel
Fennel is a delightful addition to the garden, especially when planted in March. Known for its aromatic flavor, it thrives in cool weather.
Sow seeds in well-drained soil and provide plenty of sunlight. Keep the soil moist to support healthy growth.
The bulbous base, stalks, and feathery leaves are all edible, making fennel versatile in the kitchen. Harvest when the bulbs are firm and white. Enjoy it raw, roasted, or as a flavorful addition to soups and stews. Fennel’s unique taste will elevate your culinary creations.
25. Scallions
March is an excellent time to plant scallions, also known as green onions. These mild-flavored onions are perfect for adding a fresh touch to dishes.
Sow seeds or sets in well-drained soil and ensure they receive plenty of sunlight. Scallions grow quickly and require minimal maintenance.
Harvest them when the shoots are about a foot tall. Scallions can be used in salads, soups, or as a garnish, providing a mild onion flavor without overpowering other ingredients. They’re a versatile addition to both your garden and your kitchen.
26. Radicchio
Radicchio, with its vibrant red-purple leaves, is perfect for sowing in March. This chicory variety thrives in cooler weather.
Plant seeds in fertile soil with good drainage, and keep them well-watered. As the plants mature, their leaves will form tight heads.
Harvest when the heads are firm and colorful. Radicchio is known for its slightly bitter flavor, making it a unique addition to salads and dishes. Its striking color and taste add a gourmet touch to any meal. Enjoy it raw, grilled, or roasted.
27. Bok Choy
Bok choy, with its crisp white stems and lush green leaves, is ideal for March planting. This Asian vegetable thrives in cool spring weather.
Sow seeds in well-drained soil and maintain consistent moisture. Bok choy grows quickly, with plants ready for harvest in just a few weeks.
Harvest whole plants or individual leaves as needed. Bok choy is versatile in the kitchen, delicious in stir-fries, soups, or simply steamed. Its mild flavor and crunchy texture make it a favorite for gardeners and cooks alike.
28. Cress
March is the perfect time to sow cress, known for its peppery flavor and rapid growth. This tiny green is a great addition to your garden.
Sow seeds densely in well-drained soil and keep them moist. Cress grows quickly, making it an instant gratification crop.
Harvest when the leaves are young and tender. Cress is perfect for salads, sandwiches, and garnishes, adding a spicy kick to your dishes. Its fast-growing nature makes it a fun and rewarding choice for gardeners of all levels.
29. Chinese Cabbage
Chinese cabbage, with its tender, crinkly leaves, is a wonderful vegetable to plant in March. It thrives in the cool temperatures of early spring.
Sow seeds in fertile, well-drained soil and keep them moist. As the plants grow, they will form elongated heads.
Harvest when the heads are firm. Chinese cabbage is versatile, perfect for salads, stir-fries, or pickling. Its mild, sweet flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a staple in many cuisines. It’s a delicious and nutritious addition to your garden.
30. Sorrel
Sow sorrel seeds in March for a burst of lemony flavor in your garden. This perennial herb loves the cool weather of early spring.
Plant seeds in a shady spot with well-drained soil. Sorrel is hardy and low-maintenance, making it a great choice for beginners.
Harvest the leaves regularly to encourage new growth. Sorrel adds a tangy flavor to soups, salads, and sauces, offering a refreshing twist to your dishes. Its unique taste and ease of growth make it a valuable addition to any garden.
31. Mizuna
March is the perfect month to plant mizuna, a leafy green with a mild, peppery taste. This Japanese green thrives in cool weather.
Sow seeds in well-drained soil and keep them moist. Mizuna grows quickly, and the leaves can be harvested at any size.
Regular harvesting promotes new growth, ensuring a continuous supply. Mizuna is ideal for salads, stir-fries, or as a garnish. Its delicate flavor and tender texture make it a favorite for those looking to add a little zing to their meals. A must-have for any garden.
32. Pak Choi
Pak choi, also known as bok choy, is perfect for sowing in March. This crisp, leafy vegetable loves the cool temperatures of spring.
Plant seeds in well-drained soil and ensure they’re kept consistently moist. Pak choi grows rapidly, with plants ready for harvest in a few weeks.
You can harvest whole plants or pick leaves as needed. Pak choi is versatile in the kitchen, great for stir-fries, soups, or as a steamed side dish. Its subtle flavor and crunchy texture make it a delightful addition to any garden.
33. Chicory
March is an excellent time to plant chicory, a leafy vegetable known for its slightly bitter taste. It thrives in cool weather, making it perfect for early spring.
Sow seeds directly into the garden and keep the soil moist. As the plants grow, they’ll develop leafy heads.
Harvest when the leaves are tender for the best flavor. Chicory is great for salads, adding a distinct bitterness that pairs well with sweet or fruity dressings. Its unique taste and texture make it a gourmet choice for any culinary garden.
34. Escarole
Escarole is a delightful leafy green to plant in March. Known for its slightly bitter taste, it adds depth to salads and other dishes.
Sow seeds in well-drained soil, ensuring they receive plenty of sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist for optimal growth.
Harvest when the leaves are tender and young. Escarole is versatile, delicious raw, or cooked in soups and sautés. Its hearty texture and unique flavor make it a wonderful addition to your spring garden. Enjoy it as a healthful, tasty part of your meals.
35. Corn Salad
Corn salad, also known as lamb’s lettuce, is perfect for March planting. This cool-season green is a gardener’s delight, with its mild, nutty flavor.
Sow seeds in well-drained soil and keep them moist. Corn salad grows quickly, making it a rewarding plant to cultivate.
Harvest the leaves as needed for fresh salads. Its tender leaves and subtle taste make it a favorite among greens. Enjoy it tossed in salads or as a garnish, bringing a touch of elegance to your dishes. A lovely addition to any garden.
36. Salsify
Salsify, often called the oyster plant for its unique taste, is a great vegetable to plant in March. It thrives in cool weather and is known for its long roots.
Sow seeds directly in the ground, ensuring deep soil for root development. Keep the soil consistently moist for healthy growth.
Salsify takes a while to mature, but its distinct flavor is worth the wait. Harvest in fall and enjoy its taste, reminiscent of oysters. It can be used in soups, stews, or roasted. A unique addition to diversify your garden’s offerings.