Vegetable Gardening in Washington State: A Guide for March Planting
Spring is in the air, and gardeners in Washington state are eager to get their hands in the soil. But when is the best time to plant? And what should you plant in March? Here’s a guide to help you get started.
When to Plant in Washington State
The best time to plant in Washington state is after the last frost date. This varies depending on your location, but it’s generally around Mother’s Day. However, some vegetables can tolerate cooler temperatures and can be planted as early as March.
What to Plant in March
There are a variety of vegetables that can be planted in March in Washington state, including:
- Cool season crops: These crops can tolerate cooler temperatures and can be planted directly in the ground in March. Examples include broccoli, kale, lettuce, beets, carrots, parsnips, turnips, radishes, and onion family crops.
- Warm season crops: These crops need warmer temperatures to thrive and should be started indoors in March and transplanted outdoors after the last frost date. Examples include tomatoes, okra, pumpkins, squash, peppers, basil, and eggplant.
How to Plant in March
Before you start planting, it’s important to prepare your soil. Make sure it is loose and well-drained. You can also add compost or other organic matter to help improve the soil’s fertility.
Once your soil is prepared, you can start planting. For cool season crops, you can sow seeds directly in the ground. For warm season crops, you can start seeds indoors in a seed tray or pot. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, you can transplant them outdoors.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to help you succeed with your March planting:
- Choose the right varieties for your climate. Not all vegetables are suited to Washington’s cool, wet springs.
- Harden off your plants before transplanting them outdoors. This will help them adjust to the cooler temperatures and prevent transplant shock.
- Water your plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilize your plants every few weeks to help them grow and produce fruit.
- Protect your plants from pests and diseases.
Additional Resources
For more information on vegetable gardening in Washington state, visit the following resources:
- Washington State University Extension: https://extension.wsu.edu/
- University of Washington Botanic Gardens: https://botanicgardens.uw.edu/
- Seattle Tilth: https://www.seattletilth.org/
With a little planning and care, you can have a bountiful vegetable garden this summer. So get started today!