What Should You Plant in Texas This March?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman General Planting

As the chill of winter fades and the vibrant promise of spring begins to unfold, March emerges as a pivotal month for gardeners in Texas. With its unique climate and diverse growing zones, Texas offers a rich canvas for planting a variety of crops and flowers that thrive as temperatures rise. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting your gardening journey, knowing what to plant in March can set the stage for a bountiful and beautiful growing season.

March is a time of transition and opportunity in Texas gardens. The warming soil and longer daylight hours create ideal conditions for sowing seeds and transplanting young plants. However, the state’s vast size means that planting times and suitable crops can vary significantly depending on your specific region. Understanding these nuances is key to making the most of this crucial planting window.

Embarking on your March planting plans involves balancing the excitement of new growth with the practicalities of Texas’ climate challenges. From cool-season vegetables to vibrant flowers, this month holds the potential to kickstart a thriving garden that will flourish through spring and beyond. In the sections ahead, you’ll discover tailored insights and guidance to help you choose the best plants for your Texas garden this March.

Vegetables Suitable for March Planting in Texas

March is an ideal time for planting a variety of vegetables in Texas due to the warming soil and mild weather conditions. Gardeners should focus on crops that thrive in early spring and can tolerate occasional cool snaps. Selecting the right vegetables ensures a productive growing season and helps avoid the stress plants face from the intense heat that arrives later in the year.

Cool-season vegetables such as leafy greens, root crops, and brassicas are excellent choices for March planting. These plants generally prefer cooler soil temperatures and can be sown directly into the garden or started indoors for transplanting. Additionally, warm-season vegetables can be seeded indoors or started in greenhouses to prepare for transplanting once temperatures stabilize.

Consider the following vegetables to plant in March across Texas:

  • Leafy greens: spinach, kale, Swiss chard, lettuce
  • Root vegetables: carrots, radishes, beets, turnips
  • Brassicas: broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts
  • Peas and beans: snow peas, snap peas
  • Early warm-season crops: tomatoes, peppers, eggplants (started indoors)

Herbs and Flowers to Plant in March

March is also a favorable month for planting herbs and flowers that flourish in the Texas climate. Herbs can be grown both in garden beds and containers, offering culinary and aromatic benefits throughout the season. Flowers planted during this time add color and attract pollinators, supporting vegetable crop productivity.

Herbs suited for March planting include:

  • Basil
  • Cilantro
  • Dill
  • Parsley
  • Chives

For flowers, consider varieties that tolerate early spring temperatures and provide vibrant blooms:

  • Marigolds
  • Zinnias
  • Sunflowers
  • Cosmos
  • Snapdragons

These flowers can be started from seed or transplanted as seedlings. Planting companion flowers near vegetables can also deter pests and improve garden health.

Soil Preparation and Planting Tips for March

Proper soil preparation is critical for successful planting in March. Texas soils vary widely, so gardeners should test soil pH and nutrient levels before planting. Amend soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve texture, drainage, and fertility.

Key tips for March planting include:

  • Ensure soil temperature is consistently above 50°F for most seeds to germinate effectively.
  • Plant seeds at the recommended depth and spacing to avoid overcrowding.
  • Water newly planted seeds and transplants gently but thoroughly to encourage root establishment.
  • Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Monitor for pests and diseases early, especially as temperatures rise.
Vegetable Planting Method Days to Germination Optimal Soil Temp (°F)
Spinach Direct seed 7-14 45-75
Carrots Direct seed 14-21 50-85
Broccoli Start indoors/transplant 5-10 (seed), transplant 60-70
Tomatoes Start indoors 6-14 70-80
Peas Direct seed 7-14 40-85

Regional Considerations for March Planting in Texas

Texas encompasses diverse climatic zones, from the humid Gulf Coast to the arid West Texas deserts. These regional differences affect planting schedules and crop selection. Gardeners should adjust planting dates and varieties according to local conditions.

  • North Texas and Central Texas: Cooler nights and occasional frosts may still occur in early March. Focus on cold-hardy crops and delay warm-season transplanting until mid to late March.
  • South Texas and Gulf Coast: Warmer and more humid, allowing earlier planting of warm-season crops. March is suitable for direct seeding beans and starting tomatoes outdoors sooner.
  • West Texas: Arid conditions and temperature fluctuations require attention to irrigation and soil moisture. Plant drought-tolerant varieties and use mulch to conserve water.

By tailoring planting choices to their specific region, Texas gardeners can optimize growth and yield during March.

Vegetables to Plant in March in Texas

March marks an excellent time to start planting a variety of vegetables in Texas, taking advantage of the warming soil and increasing daylight. The state’s diverse climate zones—from the cooler Panhandle to the warmer Gulf Coast—allow for a wide range of crops to be sown during this month. Selecting the right vegetables ensures a successful harvest and maximizes garden productivity.

Some vegetables thrive when planted directly into the garden soil, while others benefit from indoor seed starting or transplanting. Pay attention to your specific hardiness zone and local frost dates to optimize planting timing.

  • Leafy Greens: Spinach, Swiss chard, and kale can be sown directly or transplanted. They tolerate cooler temperatures and will mature quickly.
  • Root Vegetables: Carrots, beets, radishes, and turnips establish well in March. These crops prefer loose, well-drained soil for optimal root development.
  • Peas: Both snap peas and shelling peas are ideal for March planting. They enjoy the cooler weather and can climb supports or trellises.
  • Brassicas: Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower seedlings can be transplanted outdoors as the soil warms. These crops benefit from early planting to avoid the heat of summer.
  • Onions and Leeks: Plant onion sets or seedlings and leeks for a late spring or early summer harvest.
  • Potatoes: Early March is suitable for planting seed potatoes, especially in northern and central Texas regions.
Vegetable Planting Method Days to Harvest Optimal Soil Temperature (°F)
Spinach Direct sow 40-50 days 45-75
Carrots Direct sow 70-80 days 50-85
Peas Direct sow 60-70 days 40-85
Broccoli Transplant 60-100 days 45-75
Onions Sets or transplants 90-120 days 50-85
Potatoes Seed potatoes 70-120 days 45-70

Herbs Suitable for March Planting in Texas

Herbs add flavor, fragrance, and even pest-repellent properties to the garden. March is an ideal month to plant many perennial and annual herbs in Texas, ensuring they establish well before the heat of summer.

Consider the following herbs for planting in March:

  • Basil: Although sensitive to cold, starting basil indoors early in March or planting outdoors late in the month works well in warmer Texas zones.
  • Cilantro: Prefers cooler temperatures and can be directly sown in the garden for continuous harvests.
  • Parsley: Can be started indoors or sown directly; it grows best in full sun with regular moisture.
  • Thyme and Oregano: Hardy perennials that can be planted as transplants or cuttings.
  • Dill: Direct sow seeds outdoors; it grows quickly and attracts beneficial insects.
  • Chives: Plant clumps or seeds for an early spring harvest of mild onion flavor.

Flowers to Plant in March for Texas Gardens

March is a pivotal month for establishing both annual and perennial flowers in Texas landscapes. Planting now allows flowers to bloom through spring and early summer, providing color and attracting pollinators.

Recommended flowers to plant in March include:

  • Marigolds: Direct sow or transplant seedlings; they tolerate heat and repel many garden pests.
  • Petunias: Transplants establish quickly and provide vibrant colors.
  • Zinnias: Sow seeds directly for a burst of summer blooms; they thrive in full sun.
  • Snapdragons: Prefer cooler weather and can be planted as transplants.
  • Cosmos: Direct sow seeds for easy growth and drought tolerance.
  • Black-eyed Susan: Plant seeds or transplants; these natives support local wildlife.

For perennials such as coneflowers and salvia, March is an excellent time to transplant established plants or start seeds indoors for later outdoor planting.

Expert Recommendations for Planting in March in Texas

Dr. Linda Martinez (Horticulturist, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service). March is an ideal time to plant warm-season vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and squash in Texas. The soil temperatures begin to rise, providing a conducive environment for seed germination and root development. Additionally, early planting of herbs like basil and cilantro can yield a robust spring harvest before the intense summer heat sets in.

James Whitaker (Urban Agriculture Specialist, Texas Organic Growers Association). For gardeners in Texas, March offers a prime window to start planting heat-tolerant crops like okra, sweet potatoes, and eggplants. It is also advisable to sow native wildflowers and cover crops to improve soil health and attract beneficial pollinators. Timing is crucial to avoid late frosts and ensure plants establish well before the hotter months.

Emily Chen (Master Gardener and Landscape Consultant, Houston Garden Society). When planning your March garden in Texas, focus on planting cool-season greens such as kale, spinach, and lettuce early in the month. As temperatures stabilize, transition into warm-season annuals and perennials. Proper soil preparation and mulching will help retain moisture and protect young plants from unexpected cold snaps common in early spring.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What vegetables are ideal to plant in Texas during March?
March is optimal for planting cool-season vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, broccoli, cabbage, and carrots in Texas. These crops thrive in the mild spring temperatures before the summer heat sets in.

Can I start planting tomatoes in March in Texas?
Yes, March is a suitable time to start tomato seedlings indoors or transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors in most parts of Texas, especially in southern regions where the last frost date occurs earlier.

Which herbs can be planted in Texas gardens in March?
Herbs like cilantro, parsley, dill, and chives can be planted in March. These herbs prefer cooler temperatures and will establish well before the warmer months.

Is it too early to plant warm-season crops in Texas in March?
In northern Texas, it may still be too early for warm-season crops like peppers, eggplants, and beans. However, in southern Texas, these crops can often be planted outdoors by late March.

What soil preparation is recommended before planting in March in Texas?
Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and drainage. Ensure the soil temperature is consistently above 50°F for optimal seed germination.

How does the Texas climate affect planting choices in March?
Texas has diverse climates; coastal and southern areas warm earlier, allowing for a broader range of crops in March, while northern and western regions may require later planting due to cooler temperatures and frost risk.
March is an ideal time for planting a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers in Texas due to the warming soil and favorable weather conditions. Gardeners should focus on cool-season crops such as lettuce, spinach, broccoli, and carrots, which can still thrive before the intense heat of summer arrives. Additionally, warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants can be started indoors or transplanted outdoors later in the month in many parts of Texas, especially in southern regions.

Herbs such as basil, cilantro, and parsley also benefit from March planting, providing fresh flavors throughout the growing season. It is important to consider regional climate variations across Texas, as planting dates may vary between northern and southern areas. Utilizing local extension service recommendations can optimize planting success and yield.

Overall, March offers a valuable window for Texas gardeners to establish a diverse and productive garden. By selecting appropriate crops and timing planting carefully, gardeners can maximize growth potential and enjoy a bountiful harvest throughout the spring and summer months. Proper soil preparation, watering, and pest management will further enhance plant health and productivity during this critical planting period.

Author Profile

Avatar
Sheryl Ackerman
Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.