Seeds to sow in March for your allotment garden. March is an exciting time, spring feels but a moment away and as the days get lighter, it’s time to think about sowing seeds. However, don’t rush. March can still turn very cold, we even had snow in April and May a couple of years ago, so the weather is a little bit erratic at this time of year. Plants sown later will usually catch up and although you might end up with a slightly smaller crop, it might be worth it as plants sown too early could die in the cold.
This year, I’m starting most of my plants at home on windowsills. Why? Well, two reasons.
- The slugs and snails last year were so destructive. Waiting for my plants to develop stronger roots before planting out will give them a little added defence against the hungry little munchers.
- I want to be able to give them everything they need with ease. I can’t get to my allotment plot every single day, so starting them at home will enable me to keep an eye on them!
So, what vegetable seeds am I starting this month?
TOMATOES
I’m growing a few varieties this year. Burlesque, red cherry, gardeners delight, sunbeam and tumbling toms. I’m starting my seeds now because I plan on planting them out in my polytunnel. If I was planning on planting them straight outside, I would probably start my seeds towards the end of April. Tomatoes need heat and don’t tolerate frost. They are also vulnerable to blight, so I would love to be able to avoid that this year if I can!
LEEKS
I’ll be starting leeks in cardboard tubes on my windowsill this year. Once they are about as thick as a pencil, I’ll think about planting them outside in a raised bed.
CARROTS
Oh yes! I’m giving these a go early this year. Carrots need a soft, sandy soil and lots of water to grow well. TOP TIP: Try laying a fold of horticulture fleece over your scattered carrot seeds and water well. The fleece should help to keep the moisture in allowing the seeds a better chance at germinating!
PARSNIPS
Also, whacking these out early this year! Parsnips require a really long growing time, so make sure to choose a good spot for them. They will be making themselves at home for a while!
BROCCOLI and CAULIFLOWER
I always stick these two together as I think they grow so well. I’m starting them in trays and them pricking out and potting on until they are a good size. Slugs and snails love them, so the bigger I can get them before planting out, the better chance I’ll have at harvesting some this year!
SWEETPEAS
Not too late to start some sweet pea flowers. You can direct sow them from the end of March as they can tolerate a bit of frost and cold. Don’t forget to build the support at the same time as you plant them out!
PEAS
I’m not growing peas this year, but now is the time to start them if you want to! Early crop varieties can be direct sown now, as long as you can protect from hungry field mice, who love to dig them up for a tea time treat! Putting plastic bottles of jars over the top is good for this!
Don’t forget to protect anything you do start directly outside from frost and also from slugs and snails. I was far too complacent last year and lost a lot to those little munchers, so early protection is key!
Happy sowing! And remember, there is still PLENTY of time to get everything growing!
