As we head into spring, there’s plenty to do on the allotment. Stevenage falls within Zone 10, meaning the last frost is expected between April 11th and April 20th. That means March is the perfect time to start sowing:
Vegetables to Sow Directly Outdoors
With the soil starting to warm up, hardy vegetables can be sown directly into well-prepared beds. Consider sowing:
- Carrots – Opt for early varieties such as ‘Nantes’ or ‘Amsterdam Forcing’. Sow thinly in shallow drills and protect with fleece if a cold snap is expected.
- Parsnips – Slow to germinate, so get them in early. Pre-soak seeds overnight to speed up the process.
- Beetroot – Sow in succession for a steady supply. Multi-sow in clusters for easier thinning.
- Radishes – Fast-growing and perfect for intercropping between slower-growing vegetables.
- Spinach – Hardy varieties such as ‘Perpetual’ can be sown now for early leafy greens.
- Peas – First early varieties like ‘Meteor’ and ‘Douce Provence’ do well in cool temperatures.
- Broad Beans – Hardy and easy to grow, they can be sown now for an early summer crop.
- Onion Sets & Shallots – Plant now to establish strong roots before summer.
Vegetables to Start Indoors or Under Cover
Some crops need more warmth to germinate successfully. Use a greenhouse, cold frame, or windowsill to get a head start on:
- Tomatoes – Start seeds in trays with warmth and good light. Transplant when they develop their first true leaves.
- Chillies & Peppers – Require a long growing season, so early sowing is essential.
- Aubergines – Like chillies, they need plenty of warmth and light.
- Courgettes, Pumpkins & Squash – Start in pots indoors and plant out once the risk of frost has passed.
- Brassicas (Cabbage, Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts) – Sow in seed trays or modules for transplanting later.
- Leeks – Sow into deep trays or modules. They’ll be ready to transplant in early summer.
Fruit to Plant
March is a good time to plant new fruit bushes and trees while they are still dormant. Consider:
- Strawberries – Plant new bare-root runners or potted plants now for a summer harvest.
- Raspberries – Both summer- and autumn-fruiting varieties can be planted.
- Currants & Gooseberries – These establish well when planted in early spring.
- Fruit Trees – Apples, pears, plums, and cherries can be planted as long as the ground isn’t frozen.
Essential March Jobs on the Allotment
- Prepare Beds – Weed, dig over, and add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure.
- Protect Early Sowings – Use cloches, fleece, or mini polytunnels to shield young plants from cold nights.
- Feed Fruit Bushes – Apply a general-purpose fertiliser or sulphate of potash to encourage strong growth.
- Mulch Perennial Crops – Rhubarb, asparagus, and other perennials benefit from a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Start a Compost Heap – If you haven’t already, set up a compost area to make use of organic waste.
- Check Tools & Structures – Repair raised beds, trellises, and netting before they are needed.
March is a busy and rewarding month on the allotment. With the right preparations, you’ll set the foundation for a productive growing season.
