March Calendar

​The days are longer and the sun is warmer.  There’s a lot of melting in the north.  The average last spring frost date is May 24-30 in zone 3.   You can check out your location on this chart from the National Climatic Data Center.  The chart gives percentages for dates so you know your chances of beating a freeze.  It is also useful in calculating seed starting dates.  Most seeds require starting 6-8 weeks before the average last spring frost date.  For the Hayward, Wisconsin area this means starting seeds March 30 to April 13.   

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• March is the month to start regular fertilization of houseplants.
• Order perennial plants and schedule delivery for when the ground is workable
• At the end of the month start tuberous begonias and caladiums in pots.  Start seeds for impatiens, vinca, pansies, and geraniums.  Start tender bulbs such as calla lilies indoors.  Start seedlings of hardy vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, and parsley.)
• When the snow melts, check perennial beds for roots heaved from frost.  Gently step down any exposed roots and cover with mulch.
• Finish pruning dormant trees.
• Sharpen lawn mower blades and have mower serviced before the spring rush.
• Cut out old canes of climbing roses so new shoots can grow.

 
Once the snow has melted and the top layer of leaves has thawed I get out my lawn mower to mulch the perennial beds.  Look for a future post on this time saving technique.