March marks the gentle transition from the heat of summer into the cooler, more manageable days of early autumn across South Australia. While the soil is still warm, the air begins to soften—creating ideal conditions for planting, maintaining, and preparing your garden for the months ahead. It’s one of the most rewarding times to be in the garden, with plenty to do and great results to be had.
Planting Opportunities
With warm soil and milder temperatures, March is perfect for sowing a wide range of vegetables. Leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach, and rocket establish quickly now, while crops like carrots, beetroot, and radish thrive in the improving conditions. Brassicas—including broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage—can be planted now for winter harvests, though young seedlings may still need protection from lingering heat.
Herbs such as coriander, parsley, and dill also do well when planted in March, benefiting from the reduced intensity of the sun. It’s also a great time to plant spring-flowering bulbs like freesias, daffodils, and tulips, giving them time to establish before winter.
Lawn Care
After a long summer, lawns can look tired and patchy. March is an excellent time to revive them. Begin by aerating compacted soil and applying a suitable fertiliser to encourage new growth. Overseeding bare patches can help thicken the lawn before winter dormancy sets in. Continue watering as needed, but you can gradually reduce frequency as temperatures cool.
Pruning and Maintenance
Light pruning can be done now to tidy up summer growth and encourage fresh autumn shoots. Deadhead flowering plants to prolong blooms and keep the garden looking neat. However, avoid heavy pruning of frost-sensitive plants, as cooler weather is approaching.
Remove any dead or diseased plant material to prevent pests and fungal problems from establishing. Keep an eye out for common garden pests, which can still be active in early autumn.
Soil Improvement
March is an ideal time to improve your soil after the stresses of summer. Add compost or well-rotted manure to garden beds to replenish nutrients and improve structure. Mulching is especially important—apply a fresh layer to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Watering Wisely
Although the weather is cooling, dry conditions can still persist. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage strong root growth. Early morning or evening watering reduces evaporation and ensures plants make the most of available moisture.
Fruit Garden Tasks
Harvest any remaining summer fruits and begin preparing fruit trees for the cooler season. Netting can be removed once crops are finished. Citrus trees will benefit from a feed this month, and it’s a good time to plant new fruit trees while the soil is still warm.
Planning Ahead
Finally, take advantage of this transitional month to plan your winter garden. Rotate crops, sketch out new layouts, and consider planting green manure crops in unused beds to boost soil fertility.
March is a month of opportunity in the South Australian garden. With a bit of care and attention now, you’ll set yourself up for a productive and healthy garden through autumn and into winter.
Ask one of our knowledgeable garden staff members for advice if you have any questions regarding anything having to do with your garden, indoors or out. We would be pleased to lead you on the correct path. Call us on 1300 165 165 or visit your local store.