Planting calendar
March Planting Guide for Charlotte, NC: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground Gardens
March in Charlotte is a great time to start planting cool-season crops directly in raised beds, containers, or in-ground gardens. You can also begin indoor seed starting for warm-season vegetables to transplant later. Focus on hardy greens, root vegetables, and early herbs now to get a head start on the growing season.
Plant now (quick list)
lettuce, spinach, kale, radishes, carrots, peas, onions (sets or transplants), potatoes
Plant now
- lettuce
- spinach
- kale
- radishes
- carrots
- peas
- onions (sets or transplants)
- potatoes
- Swiss chard
Start indoors
- tomatoes
- peppers
- eggplants
- basil
- marigolds
- cucumbers
- melons
- zucchini
Avoid
- beans (wait until soil warms)
- corn (too early)
- sweet potatoes
- cucumbers (direct sowing now risks frost)
- pumpkins
Next 2 weeks
- harden off indoor seedlings before transplanting
- prepare soil with compost and mulch
- monitor for late frost and protect young plants
- thin early-sown crops for better growth
- start trellises for peas and vining plants
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in March in Charlotte?
No, tomatoes are frost-sensitive. Start seeds indoors in March and transplant outdoors after the last frost, typically in late April.
How do I protect early seedlings from late frosts?
Use row covers, cloches, or lightweight fabric to shield plants during cold nights.
Is it better to plant peas in containers or in-ground?
Peas do well in both, but ensure containers have good drainage and support for climbing varieties.
When should I transplant seedlings started indoors?
Transplant after the last expected frost date, when soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F.
What soil preparation is recommended in March?
Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and soil structure before planting.
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