March is the month that supposedly welcomes over 100 hours of sunshine, with temperatures ranging — on average — from 2C to 9C, making it absolutely perfect to start planting.
Tidying up the garden will also give you a much needed boost, especially when growing colourful flowers – they are a great way to start the build up to summer!
It is believed that the best time to get out those gardening gloves is approximately half way through March. The ground begins to soften, the sun comes out, and it is still cool enough for the flowers to obtain essential nutrients and maintain their moisture. Here are some simple, yet effective tips for the ideal garden:
Plant in Odd Numbers
Part of the perfect garden is all about the appearance. Planting your flowers in odd numbers will create an artistic effect, and is much more pleasing to the eye.
Plant placement is also vital – ensure you place brightly coloured flowers amongst the duller, earthy shrubbery of your garden. That way the focus is everywhere, nothing steals the limelight, and your own outdoor haven will turn into a showstopper.
Open Your Conservatory Doors
If you don’t have a conservatory, don’t worry – plant some more flowers! For those of you who do, it is a good idea to open the doors and let the heat in.
With March witnessing a lot more sunshine than the winter months, it will open up your plants and they will begin to blossom. If you’re a lover of vegetable gardening, this tip will really work a treat on those tomatoes.
Always Use Protection
The spring season is a great time for gardening, but don’t forget, it is also warm enough for slugs to run wild. It really is important to protect your shoots from slugs by using slug repellents or putting sharp gravel around your plants to act as a barrier.
You wouldn’t want your time and effort to go to waste! With the welcomed arrival of spring, now is the time to get rid of all of those weeds that manifested in the freezing temperatures of winter.
Don’t Just Plant Pretty Flowers
Break it up a bit by growing your own foods. Shallots, onions, and potatoes are just a few examples of what your garden can harvest. Digging up the produce is also great fun for everyone to enjoy. The satisfaction of producing fresh foods is astounding, and you will rarely have to go shopping again.
Mow The Lawn
One of the best things about a gorgeous garden is the good condition of the lawn. Spring is the perfect time to get the lawnmower out and make the green grass look pristine. With a tidy garden, everything is complemented wonderfully.
Along with those tips, you will also need motivation and dedication to maintain your garden and keep it in great condition. It is said that the flower of March is the elegant daffodil. If you’re stuck for ideas on what to plant along with daffodils, the perfect flowers for the spring season are aquilegias, sunflowers, bluebells and azaleas. All they need is a little care and occasional sunlight, and these beautiful flowers will truly blossom and come to life.
After your hard work is complete, your garden will look spectacular – Alan Titchmarsh is sure to be proud.
Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and bask in the fresh spring air of your very own piece of paradise.
You could even buy a hammock.
