As the warmth of summer fades and the cool embrace of autumn begins, March is an ideal time to refresh your garden with cool-season vegetables and herbs. Whether you’re growing in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, or Dunedin, there are plenty of plants suited to each region’s climate. Read on for a complete guide to what you should be planting this month and how to ensure a thriving garden.
March Planting Zones and Climate Adjustments
March signals the transition from summer to autumn, requiring gardeners across New Zealand to adjust their planting strategies accordingly. Cooler regions like the South Island will start experiencing lower temperatures, while northern areas like Auckland and Northland may still enjoy warmth and humidity. Understanding your climate is key to ensuring successful crops.
Recommended Vegetables and Herbs by Region
Auckland / Northland / Bay of Plenty
- Coriander – Thrives in cooler weather and adds fresh flavour to dishes. Growth tip: sow seeds in well-drained soil and partial shade. Keep soil moist but avoid overwatering to prevent bolting.
- Dill – Great for seafood and pickling cucumbers. Growth tip: sow seeds directly in garden beds, spacing them 20cm apart. Prefers full sun and occasional feeding.
- Spring Onion – A kitchen staple that grows quickly and adds a mild onion flavour to meals. Growth tip: plant in rows with 2-3cm spacing, ensuring soil remains moist.
Wellington / Taranaki / Hawke’s Bay
- Cabbage – A hardy vegetable perfect for autumn planting. Growth tip: requires deep, fertile soil. Protect from pests using row covers or natural deterrents like neem oil.
- Broccoli – A nutrient-rich vegetable that thrives in cooler temperatures. Growth tip: space plants 40cm apart and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Silverbeet – A highly resilient leafy green that provides a steady harvest throughout autumn. Growth tip: water regularly and trim outer leaves to encourage continuous growth.
Christchurch / Dunedin / South Island
- Onion – Easy to grow and store, onions thrive in well-draining soil. Growth tip: ensure loose, sandy soil for proper bulb development. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
- Garlic – A slow-growing crop that benefits from autumn planting. Growth tip: plant individual cloves with pointed ends up, spacing them 15cm apart. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Parsley – A versatile herb that enhances many dishes. Growth tip: start from seeds or seedlings in a sunny spot with moist, well-drained soil.
Tips for Maintaining Plant Health in Changing Seasons
- Mulch garden beds to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Water early in the morning to ensure plants receive adequate hydration before the afternoon heat.
- Feed plants with organic compost or slow-release fertiliser to encourage strong growth.
- Protect young plants from temperature drops with row covers or cloches in cooler regions.
- Watch for pests such as caterpillars and aphids, which may become more active as temperatures cool.
Harvest Timelines and Expected Yields
- Fast growers (4-6 weeks): Coriander, dill, spring onions, parsley.
- Medium growers (8-12 weeks): Cucumber, silverbeet, cabbage.
- Long growers (3-6 months): Broccoli, eggplant, onion, garlic.
Recipe Ideas for March Vegetables and Herbs
- Auckland / Northland: Coriander and dill rice salad – a fresh side dish with fluffy rice, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Wellington / Taranaki: Broccoli and cabbage stir-fry – a nutritious dish with garlic and soy sauce, served over rice.
- Christchurch / Dunedin: Roasted garlic and onion soup – a warming autumn soup with vegetable broth.
Ready to start planting?
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, our Vegepod offers a simple way to cultivate fresh produce right at home. Get started today and transform your gardening experience today.