Planting calendar
March Planting Guide for Jacksonville, FL: Raised Beds, Containers & In-Ground
March is an ideal month in Jacksonville, FL to plant warm-season vegetables and herbs in raised beds, containers, and in-ground gardens. Focus on heat-tolerant crops and start some seeds indoors for summer harvests. This guide helps you optimize your garden for the subtropical climate.
Plant now (quick list)
Tomatoes, Peppers, Eggplants, Okra, Sweet potatoes, Basil, Cucumbers, Beans
Plant now
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplants
- Okra
- Sweet potatoes
- Basil
- Cucumbers
- Beans
- Squash
- Melons
Start indoors
- Corn
- Watermelon
- Pumpkins
- Zucchini
- Herbs like cilantro and parsley
- Sweet corn
- Sunflowers
- Eggplant (if not already planted)
- Peppers (if not already planted)
- Tomatoes (for later transplant)
Avoid
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
- Spinach
- Lettuce (due to warming soil)
- Peas
- Carrots (late plantings)
- Potatoes
Next 2 weeks
- Harden off indoor seedlings before transplanting
- Monitor soil moisture and water early mornings
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize warm-season crops with balanced fertilizer
- Watch for early pests like aphids and caterpillars
- Thin seedlings to proper spacing
- Stake or cage tomato and pepper plants
- Plant successive bean crops for continuous harvest
- Check container drainage regularly
- Plan for summer heat protection if needed
FAQs
Can I plant tomatoes directly in the ground in March?
Yes, March is a good time to transplant tomato seedlings into the ground in Jacksonville as the risk of frost is minimal and soil temperatures are warming.
Should I start seeds indoors or sow directly in March?
Warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers can be started indoors early in March, but many heat-loving vegetables like beans and squash can be sown directly outdoors.
How often should I water raised beds and containers in March?
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 2-3 days, but adjust based on weather and container size to avoid over or under watering.
Are there any vegetables I should avoid planting in March in Jacksonville?
Cool-season crops like broccoli and lettuce should be avoided as they may bolt or perform poorly in the warming temperatures.
What pests should I watch for during March planting?
Early pests include aphids, caterpillars, and whiteflies; regular monitoring and organic controls help keep damage minimal.
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