March is an exciting time for gardeners in Scotland. With spring on the horizon, the garden is about to come alive once again. If you're looking for inspiration for your own patch of green, here are some great ideas for what to plant and do in your garden this month.
To start, let's talk about plants. One of the most popular choices for early spring in Scotland is daffodils. They're a hardy little flower that can handle a bit of a nip in the air and they'll provide a pop of yellow that's sure to brighten up any garden. Another great option is tulips, which come in a variety of colours and will bring a touch of sophistication to your garden beds.
If you're looking for something a bit more low maintenance, you might consider planting some evergreens. Scots Pine and Junipers are both native to Scotland and are tough as old boots, so they'll be able to withstand Scotland's often harsh weather conditions. Plus, they'll provide a bit of year-round greenery, which is always a welcome addition.
When it comes to doing things in your garden in March, there are a few important tasks to attend to. First and foremost, it's time to tidy up from winter. That means pruning any dead or damaged branches, raking up any leaves, and getting rid of any other debris that's accumulated over the winter months. This will not only help keep your garden looking neat and tidy, but it will also make it easier for new growth to emerge.
Another important task is to prepare your soil for planting. This means digging in some compost or organic matter to help improve the structure of the soil and make it more fertile. This will help ensure that your plants have the best start possible.
Now that your garden is in tip-top shape, it's time to get planting! Whether you're planting seeds or seedlings, be sure to choose a spot that will get plenty of sunlight and has good drainage. If you're not sure where to start, you might consider visiting your local garden centre for some expert advice.
Finally, let's not forget about the wildlife in your garden. As the weather starts to warm up, you'll start to see all sorts of creatures coming out of hiding. By planting a variety of different flowers, shrubs, and trees, you can provide a habitat that will support a diverse range of wildlife. For example, you could plant some bluebells and primroses, which are popular with bees, or you could hang a bird feeder to help out our feathered friends. This year we spotted all kind of warm blooded creatures with fur and feathers:
A herron
Many Squirrels (grey)
Woodpecker
Foxes
Carrion crows
Sparrow Hawks
Pipistrel bats
Swallows
Field Voles
Bullfinches
Robins
Magpies
Wood pigeons
Jackdaws
Seagulls
Blackbirds
Thrushes
Finches
Blue Tits
Cats...not of the wild variety
So, there you have it, a few ideas for what to plant and do in your garden in Scotland in March. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a newcomer to the world of horticulture, there's something for everyone. As the great William Shakespeare once wrote, "And this our life, exempt from public haunt, finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks, sermons in stones, and good in everything." So, get out there and enjoy your garden!
Sources:
Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/
BBC Gardeners' World, https://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening
The Gardeners' Chronicle, https://www.gardenerschronicle.co.uk/
Scottish Natural Heritage, https://www.nature.scot/
Forestry and Land Scotland, https://forestryandland.gov.scot/
National Trust for Scotland, https://www.nts.org.uk/
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