What Vegetables to Grow in March in the UK

March in the UK signifies the onset of longer, warmer days and the reawakening of gardens. As spring beckons, it’s the perfect opportunity for garden enthusiasts to indulge in planting and sowing activities.

If you’re wondering about the vegetables to plant in March in the UK, you’re in for a treat! From classics such as tomatoes and onions to the more niche varieties like celeriac and chard, there’s plenty to get started with. So, for those keen to roll up their sleeves, let’s delve into the delicious world of veg to grow in March, and explore the range of veggies to plant in March that can flourish in the UK climate.

Tomatoes, with their sun-ripened sweetness, are a garden favourite. When sown indoors from late February to mid-March, especially in a greenhouse setting, these versatile fruits promise an early and bountiful harvest. If planning to grow them outdoors, sowing from late March to early April is ideal. Tomatoes require protection from frost and consistent watering. When ready for harvest, their radiant hues and juicy texture are worth the wait. From salads to sandwiches, they add a burst of flavour to various dishes.

Spinach offers a healthful punch. Suitable for small spaces and containers, spinach can be sowed in light shade, especially during warm weather. Its tender, vitamin-rich leaves can be relished in salads or lightly cooked dishes. As a veg to plant in March, its growth is quick, but ensure it’s sown in fertile soil and kept hydrated.

Every kitchen’s staple, onions, come in a variety of shades and flavours. They can be sown from sets or seeds. Planting onion sets from mid-March to mid-April ensures a rich harvest by late summer. Onions appreciate a sunny location with moisture-retentive soil. When the foliage browns and withers, it’s a sign they’re ready for harvest.

Add a peppery kick to your salads with radishes. As part of the veg to grow in March list, these quick-growers can be sowed every few weeks, ensuring a consistent supply. They flourish best in cooler conditions of early summer and spring.

Potatoes, a staple in many UK households, are versatile root vegetables that can be transformed into a variety of dishes. When considering what vegetables to grow in March in the UK, potatoes undoubtedly claim their spot. Planting first earlies around late March assures a rewarding yield. They prefer well-drained soil and should be planted in trenches, with a sprinkle of compost to give them a nutritious start. Once harvested, their culinary uses are endless – from crispy roast potatoes to creamy mash and even homemade chips.

Beetroots bring a splash of colour and sweet, earthy flavour to your garden’s produce. When listing veggies to plant in March in the UK, beetroot seeds earn their place. Sowing them from late March allows for staggered harvests throughout summer and autumn. They thrive in light, well-drained soil and can be grown in both beds and containers. Their vibrant roots are not only delicious roasted or pickled but are also a nutritional powerhouse.

For those searching for visually striking and nutritious veg to plant in March in the UK, chard is an excellent pick. With its vibrant stems ranging from yellow to pink and deep red, chard is as ornamental as it is edible. Planting in March ensures a steady supply of leaves throughout the growing season. This resilient vegetable can be grown in partial shade and is tolerant of various soil types. Its flavourful leaves can be steamed, sautéed, or used in hearty soups.

March marks an opportune time to start thinking of fresh summer salads, and what better way than to sow lettuces? As quintessential vegetables to grow in March in the UK, lettuces offer an array of colours, textures, and flavours. They can be sowed in raised beds, containers, or even among flower beds as they have shallow roots. Regular watering and avoiding overly hot conditions can ensure a crunchy and continuous supply throughout the warmer months.

March might seem early to start thinking about a festive Christmas lunch, but for gardeners, it’s the right time to sow parsnips. As an essential veg to grow in March in the UK, parsnips require a long growing season to fully develop their sweet and earthy flavour. A touch of frost, often closer to December, enhances their natural sugars, making them a much-awaited treat. They need deep, stone-free soil to allow their roots to grow uninhibited. Their creamy texture and rich taste make them a perfect roasted side dish for any winter meal.

The above was just the tip of the iceberg (lettuce) of veggies to plant in March. It’s also a time for cucumbers, chillies, endive, broad beans, aubergines, brussels sprouts, carrots, and cauliflowers. With a little effort, care, and patience, the seeds and saplings sown during this period will transform into a bounty of fresh produce by summer and autumn. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, the range of vegetables to grow in March in the UK is diverse and rewarding. So, gather your tools and seeds, and let the gardening journey commence!