Introduction

March has arrived, and with it comes the promise of longer days and the first signs of spring. It's the perfect time to roll up our sleeves and get back into the garden. Whether you're a gardening pro or just dipping your toes into it for the first time, we've compiled a list of tips and tasks to make your March gardening enjoyable and productive.

Plants to Brighten Your Spring

Camellias

Camellias are one of our favourite shrubs for early spring colour; they look absolutely stunning when most other plants are still waking up!

• Perfect for adding colour when it’s still scarce.
• If your soil isn’t acidic, make sure to use the right ericaceous feed so they thrive.

Seed Potatoes – Exclusive & Disease-Resistant Varieties

Now’s the time to plan your spud patch! Our Horkans Exclusive Seed Potatoes are selected for quality and resilience; ideal for your plot this year.

Whether you’re a first-time grower or a seasoned dugger, these are great for a reliable crop later in the year.

Spring Veg & Tomatoes

Start sowing your spring vegetables and early tomato plants: indoors, under cover, or in a warm greenhouse. Getting seeds and young plants off to a strong start now means you’ll be harvesting fresh produce sooner!

Summer Bulb Range

Our summer bulbs are now available in store; perfect for creating colourful borders and containers from mid-summer onwards.

Choose from dahlias, lilies and more to brighten your garden later in the year.

Plant of the Week – Azaleas & Rhododendrons

These classic spring stars are a must for March. With rich colours and glossy foliage, they make a perfect choice for borders, beds or patio pots. Pair them with ericaceous compost and feed to keep them happy all season long.

March Gardening Tips

Spring Veg & Tomatoes

Earlier we celebrated Camellias; but don’t forget their friends:

• Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Pieris all love ericaceous soil and benefit greatly from a dedicated feed now.
• This helps support root growth and encourages stronger blooms in spring and early summer.

Support Your Fruit Trees

Give fruit trees a boost this month with a feed of Sulphate of Potash; this helps support healthier fruiting later in the season and strengthens your tree for the months ahead.

Strawberries & Wildflowers

Plant Strawberries:

Plant strawberries now in hanging baskets, keeping them up off the ground helps protect tasty fruit from slugs later in the season.

Wildflower Areas:

March is a fantastic time to sow a wildflower patch! These are brilliant for wildlife, pollinators, and creating “pockets of colour” around your garden in summer. We stock a range of selections, from classic meadow mixes to pollinator-friendly blends, perfect for your space.

Monitor for Aphids

As fresh shoots appear on roses and other shrubs, keep an eye out for aphids; they love tender new growth. Early monitoring and prevention is always better than cure!

Support Garden Birds

Birds are preparing for the breeding season, so continue to support them with calorie-rich foods such as sunflower hearts and fat balls. There’s nothing nicer than hearing birdsong in your garden as spring really gets underway.

March is a month of movement, growth and anticipation. With a few simple jobs now, you’ll be set for a colourful and bountiful gardening season ahead.