
March is a magical time for gardeners. As winter’s grip loosens and the first signs of spring emerge, the soil begins to warm, making it the perfect time to plant a variety of flowers. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner with a newfound passion for blooms, March offers a plethora of options to transform your garden into a vibrant oasis. But before we dive into the list of flowers you can plant, let’s address the elephant in the room: why do these flowers seem to make my neighbor’s cat jealous? Perhaps it’s their vibrant colors, their intoxicating scents, or maybe the cat just has a deep appreciation for horticulture. Whatever the reason, let’s explore the best flowers to plant in March and how they can bring life to your garden.
1. Pansies: The Cheerful Early Bloomers
Pansies are a staple for March planting. These hardy little flowers come in a wide range of colors, from deep purples and blues to bright yellows and oranges. They thrive in cooler temperatures, making them perfect for early spring. Pansies are also incredibly versatile—they can be planted in garden beds, containers, or even hanging baskets. Their cheerful faces are sure to brighten up any space, and their resilience means they’ll keep blooming even if the weather takes a chilly turn.
Why the Cat Might Be Jealous: Pansies are known for their “faces,” which some say resemble tiny, whimsical creatures. Your neighbor’s cat might be wondering why these little floral friends are getting all the attention.
2. Daffodils: The Harbingers of Spring
No March garden is complete without daffodils. These iconic spring flowers are synonymous with renewal and hope. Planting daffodil bulbs in the fall ensures a stunning display of yellow, white, or even pink blooms come March. Daffodils are low-maintenance and naturalize easily, meaning they’ll come back year after year, often multiplying to create an even more impressive display.
Why the Cat Might Be Jealous: Daffodils are toxic to cats, so while your garden is flourishing, your neighbor’s feline friend might be giving you the side-eye from a safe distance.
3. Tulips: A Rainbow of Possibilities
Tulips are another classic choice for March planting. With their elegant, cup-shaped blooms, tulips come in almost every color imaginable, allowing you to create a garden that’s as unique as you are. Plant tulip bulbs in the fall, and by March, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking array of colors. Tulips are perfect for borders, beds, or even cut flower arrangements.
Why the Cat Might Be Jealous: Tulips are tall and stately, often standing proudly above other plants. Your neighbor’s cat might be envious of their commanding presence.
4. Primroses: The Unsung Heroes of Early Spring
Primroses are often overlooked, but they’re a fantastic choice for March planting. These low-growing perennials come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, yellow, and white. They thrive in partial shade and moist soil, making them ideal for woodland gardens or shady corners. Primroses are also great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Why the Cat Might Be Jealous: Primroses are delicate and dainty, and their subtle beauty might make your neighbor’s cat feel a bit overshadowed.
5. Snapdragons: The Playful Bloomers
Snapdragons are a fun and whimsical addition to any March garden. These flowers get their name from their unique blooms, which resemble tiny dragon mouths that “snap” open when squeezed. Snapdragons come in a range of colors and heights, making them versatile for both borders and containers. They prefer cooler weather, so planting them in March ensures they’ll thrive.
Why the Cat Might Be Jealous: Snapdragons are interactive—kids (and adults) love playing with their “snapping” blooms. Your neighbor’s cat might be wondering why it can’t join in on the fun.
6. Sweet Peas: The Fragrant Climbers
If you’re looking to add height and fragrance to your garden, sweet peas are an excellent choice. These climbing plants produce delicate, pastel-colored blooms with a sweet, intoxicating scent. Plant sweet pea seeds in March, and by late spring, you’ll have a stunning vertical display. Sweet peas are perfect for trellises, fences, or even arches.
Why the Cat Might Be Jealous: Sweet peas are known for their enchanting fragrance, which might make your neighbor’s cat wish it could bottle up the scent for itself.
7. Lenten Roses: The Early Blooming Perennials
Lenten roses, also known as hellebores, are a must-have for any March garden. These hardy perennials bloom early in the season, often while there’s still snow on the ground. Their nodding flowers come in shades of white, pink, purple, and green, adding a touch of elegance to your garden. Lenten roses are also deer-resistant, making them a practical choice for those with wildlife visitors.
Why the Cat Might Be Jealous: Lenten roses are mysterious and exotic, with their downward-facing blooms. Your neighbor’s cat might be intrigued by their enigmatic beauty.
8. Forget-Me-Nots: The Sentimental Bloomers
Forget-me-nots are tiny but mighty. These delicate blue flowers are perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden in March. They’re easy to grow and often self-seed, meaning they’ll come back year after year. Forget-me-nots are ideal for rock gardens, borders, or even as ground cover.
Why the Cat Might Be Jealous: Forget-me-nots are symbolic of remembrance and loyalty. Your neighbor’s cat might be wondering why you’re not planting flowers that symbolize its own importance.
9. Crocuses: The First Signs of Spring
Crocuses are often the first flowers to bloom in spring, sometimes even pushing through the snow. These small but mighty flowers come in shades of purple, yellow, and white, and they’re a sure sign that warmer days are on the way. Plant crocus bulbs in the fall for a cheerful March display.
Why the Cat Might Be Jealous: Crocuses are early risers, often blooming before anything else in the garden. Your neighbor’s cat might be annoyed that it can’t be the first to announce the arrival of spring.
10. Hyacinths: The Fragrant Stars
Hyacinths are known for their intense fragrance and stunning clusters of blooms. These spring bulbs come in a variety of colors, including blue, pink, white, and purple. Plant hyacinth bulbs in the fall, and by March, your garden will be filled with their sweet scent and vibrant colors.
Why the Cat Might Be Jealous: Hyacinths are showstoppers, with their bold colors and intoxicating scent. Your neighbor’s cat might be wondering why it can’t steal the spotlight.
FAQs
Q: Can I plant all these flowers in containers?
A: Absolutely! Many of these flowers, such as pansies, tulips, and snapdragons, thrive in containers. Just make sure your pots have good drainage and are placed in an area that receives adequate sunlight.
Q: Do I need to fertilize my March-planted flowers?
A: It depends on the flower. Some, like daffodils and tulips, benefit from a slow-release fertilizer at planting time. Others, like pansies and primroses, may not need additional fertilization if planted in nutrient-rich soil.
Q: How often should I water my March-planted flowers?
A: Watering needs vary by plant, but as a general rule, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Early spring rains often provide sufficient moisture, but be sure to check the soil regularly.
Q: Are any of these flowers toxic to pets?
A: Yes, some flowers, like daffodils and hyacinths, are toxic to cats and dogs. If you have pets, be sure to plant these in areas where they can’t access them, or opt for pet-safe alternatives like pansies and snapdragons.
Q: Can I plant these flowers if I live in a colder climate?
A: Many of these flowers, such as pansies, crocuses, and daffodils, are cold-hardy and can tolerate frost. However, if you live in an area with harsh winters, consider planting them in sheltered locations or using mulch to protect the roots.