New Jersey’s coastal climate in March offers a narrow window for planting cold-tolerant vegetables before the soil warms. Knowing the Best Vegetables To Plant In March In New Jersey helps you maximize your early spring harvest despite unpredictable frosts.
March in the Garden State means fluctuating temperatures and occasional snow. But with careful planning, you can get a head start on your vegetable garden. This guide covers the most reliable crops for early planting, along with tips for success.
Best Vegetables To Plant In March In New Jersey
These vegetables thrive in cool soil and can handle light frosts. They are your best bet for a productive March garden.
Leafy Greens For Early Harvest
Leafy greens are the champions of early spring planting. They germinate in cool soil and grow quickly.
- Spinach: Plant seeds directly in the ground as soon as it’s workable. Spinach tolerates frost well and tastes sweeter after a chill.
- Lettuce: Choose loose-leaf or romaine varieties for faster growth. Head lettuce takes longer and may bolt in warmer weather.
- Kale: This hardy green survives temperatures down to 20°F. Plant it in March for tender leaves by April.
- Swiss Chard: Colorful and productive, chard handles cool soil and light freezes. It also resists bolting better than spinach.
Root Vegetables For Steady Growth
Root crops develop slowly in cold soil but reward you with sweet, crisp produce.
- Radishes: These are the fastest vegetables from seed to harvest, often ready in 25 days. Plant them every two weeks for a continuous supply.
- Carrots: Sow seeds directly in loose, stone-free soil. They germinate slowly in March but catch up as temperatures rise.
- Beets: Both roots and greens are edible. Beets tolerate light frost and grow well in New Jersey’s spring.
- Turnips: Quick-growing and cold-hardy, turnips are ideal for March planting. Harvest them small for tender flavor.
- Onions: Plant onion sets or transplants in March. They need cool weather to develop strong roots before summer heat.
Peas And Legumes For Vertical Growth
Peas love cool weather and stop producing once temperatures exceed 75°F. March is the perfect time to plant them.
- Snow Peas: Eat the whole pod. They grow fast and tolerate light frosts.
- Shelling Peas: These need a bit more space but produce sweet peas for shelling.
- Snap Peas: A cross between snow and shelling peas, they are crunchy and sweet.
- Fava Beans: Also called broad beans, they handle cold better than other beans. Plant them in early March.
Brassicas For Long Season Harvest
These crops take longer to mature but are very cold-tolerant. Start them in March for summer harvest.
- Broccoli: Set out transplants in late March. They need cool weather for head formation.
- Cabbage: Both green and red varieties grow well. Plant seedlings after the last hard frost.
- Cauliflower: More sensitive than broccoli, but early varieties can go in March with protection.
- Brussels Sprouts: Start seeds indoors or buy transplants. They need a long growing season.
- Kohlrabi: Fast-growing and unusual, kohlrabi is ready in 50 days. Plant it in March.
How To Prepare Your Garden For March Planting
Before you plant, prepare your soil and beds properly. New Jersey’s soil can be heavy clay or sandy, depending on your area.
Test And Amend Soil
Take a soil sample and test pH. Most vegetables prefer a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Add lime if your soil is too acidic.
- Remove weeds and debris from beds.
- Work in 2-3 inches of compost or aged manure.
- If soil is too wet, wait until it crumbles in your hand before digging.
Use Season Extenders
March weather in New Jersey is unpredictable. Protect your plants with simple tools.
- Row covers: Floating fabric that traps heat and blocks frost.
- Cold frames: Mini greenhouses that warm soil and air.
- Cloches: Individual covers for tender seedlings.
- Mulch: A layer of straw or leaves insulates soil and prevents heaving.
Start Seeds Indoors
Some vegetables need a head start indoors before transplanting in March or April.
- Fill seed trays with sterile seed-starting mix.
- Plant seeds at the depth listed on the packet.
- Keep soil moist and warm (65-75°F).
- Provide 14-16 hours of light daily.
- Harden off seedlings before moving them outside.
Step-By-Step Guide To Planting In March
Follow these steps for a successful March vegetable garden in New Jersey.
Week 1: Prepare And Plant Hardy Crops
As soon as the soil is workable, start planting.
- Clear beds and add compost.
- Sow peas, spinach, and radishes directly.
- Set out onion sets and garlic cloves.
- Plant kale and Swiss chard seeds.
Week 2: Add More Greens And Roots
Continue planting as weather allows.
- Plant lettuce, carrots, and beets.
- Start broccoli and cabbage seeds indoors.
- Cover beds with row covers if frost is forecast.
Week 3: Transplant And Protect
If you started seeds indoors, now is the time to move them.
- Harden off seedlings over 4-5 days.
- Transplant broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower.
- Plant more peas and radishes for succession.
Week 4: Monitor And Maintain
Check your garden regularly for pests and weather changes.
- Thin seedlings to proper spacing.
- Water deeply once a week if rain is scarce.
- Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- Watch for cutworms and slugs.
Common Mistakes When Planting In March
Avoid these errors to keep your garden on track.
- Planting too early: Wait until soil is dry enough to work. Wet soil compacts and rots seeds.
- Ignoring frost dates: New Jersey’s last frost varies from late March in the south to mid-April in the north. Check your zone.
- Overwatering: Cool soil holds moisture longer. Water only when the top inch is dry.
- Not hardening off: Indoor-grown seedlings need gradual exposure to outdoor conditions.
- Planting warm-season crops: Tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers cannot go in until May.
Best Practices For New Jersey Gardeners
Tailor your approach to your specific location in the state.
Northern New Jersey (Zones 6A-6b)
Expect colder soil and later frosts. Use raised beds for better drainage and warmth.
- Plant peas and spinach in mid-March.
- Use cold frames for tender greens.
- Delay transplanting until late March or early April.
Central New Jersey (Zone 7A)
Moderate climate allows earlier planting. Soil warms faster than in the north.
- Start carrots and beets in early March.
- Set out broccoli transplants by mid-March.
- Plant lettuce and kale directly.
Southern New Jersey (Zone 7B)
Mildest part of the state. You can plant a wider variety earlier.
- Sow peas and radishes in early March.
- Plant onions and shallots.
- Transplant cabbage and cauliflower by mid-March.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Vegetables Can I Plant In March In New Jersey?
You can plant peas, spinach, lettuce, kale, radishes, carrots, beets, onions, and broccoli. These are the best vegetables to plant in march in new jersey because they tolerate cold soil and light frosts.
When Is The Last Frost In New Jersey?
Last frost dates vary: late March in southern NJ, early April in central areas, and mid-April in northern regions. Always check your local forecast before planting tender crops.
Can I Plant Tomatoes In March In New Jersey?
No. Tomatoes are warm-season plants and cannot survive frost. Start seeds indoors in March for transplanting in May after soil warms to 60°F.
Should I Use Row Covers For March Planting?
Yes. Row covers protect seedlings from frost, wind, and pests. They also warm the soil by a few degrees, speeding up germination.
How Do I Prepare Soil For March Planting?
Remove weeds, test pH, and add compost. Avoid working wet soil. If it sticks to your shovel, wait a few days. Raised beds drain faster and warm up sooner.
Final Tips For A Successful March Garden
Start small if you are new to spring gardening. Focus on a few reliable crops like peas and spinach. Use season extenders to protect your investment. Keep a garden journal to track what works best in your microclimate.
Remember that March planting in New Jersey requires patience. Some weeks will be warm, others cold. But the effort pays off with fresh vegetables weeks before your neighbors harvest theirs.
Stick to the list of cold-tolerant vegetables, prepare your soil well, and use protection when needed. Your March garden will thrive and provide early spring meals straight from the ground.