Gardeners’ World presenter Monty Don has penned a number of top tips for the month of March – including a very important warning for any gardeners preparing to sow seeds
George Allen Content editor and Matt Davies
07:09, 14 Feb 2025Updated 09:17, 14 Feb 2025
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Monty Don has issued a crucial warning to those preparing to plant seeds as the UK slowly transitions from winter to spring. March is set to be a busy month for gardeners across the country, and Monty is no exception, with filming for BBC Gardeners’ World due to resume.
In a recent article for BBC Gardeners’ World magazine, Monty shared some essential advice for March sowing. He explained: “When sowing outdoors, check the soil temperature first to make sure it’s warm enough to sow – it should feel warm on the back of your hand.”
He added: “It needs to be at least 7°C. Look for weed seedlings growing – this is a good sign that the soil is warm enough.”
Monty also provided guidance on where to sow different plants, suggesting legumes, roots, salads, brassicas, leaf crops, and alliums should be sown outdoors.
However, he advised that tender veg, roots and stems, cucurbits, pods and cobs should be grown indoors with heat and protection, reports the Express.
Gardeners are being reminded by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) that March isn’t just for sowing seeds; there are other crucial tasks to attend to, such as pruning newly planted fruit trees and blueberries when conditions are dry. The RHS also recommends releasing blackberry canes and hybrid berries from their bundles to train them into arches, but cautions against pruning grape vines after late winter.
Additionally, it’s a time to guard seeds against slugs and protect brassicas from pigeons. Vigilance for grey mould and brassica downy mildew is advised, along with addressing any weeds that may affect seedlings.
In a previous blog post, gardening expert Monty Don urged caution regarding bulb care in March: “Do not cut back, tie or tidy the leaves of any bulbs but let them die back naturally as next year’s flower is being created by the photosynthesis of the foliage.”
He further advised: “Leave them until the last trace of green has gone – which will be at least June – and then tidy them or cut back.”
For more information on March gardening jobs, visit the RHS website.
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