From February Into March: The Quiet Start of the Growing Season

February 26, 2026

There’s a noticeable shift that happens in the garden as February gives way to March.

It’s subtle at first. The light lingers a little longer in the afternoon. The birds sound busier. Seed packets start appearing on kitchen tables. Even if the ground is still wet and heavy from weeks of rain, something has changed.

For many UK gardeners, this is the true beginning of the growing season.

Working With the Weather

Late winter often tests patience. Beds may still be waterlogged, and it’s rarely wise to work soil that’s too wet. But that doesn’t mean nothing can be done.

This transition period is about preparation rather than urgency.

• Clearing and organising growing spaces
• Cleaning greenhouses or cold frames
• Checking seed stocks
• Preparing compost
• Planning sowing schedules

Small jobs now make the busier weeks ahead feel calmer.

What to Sow as March Approaches

As light levels improve, more seeds become viable indoors or under cover:

• Tomatoes
• Chillies and peppers
• Early brassicas
• Lettuce and salad leaves
• Spinach
• Broad beans (in milder areas)

The key isn’t to rush — it’s to sow steadily.

A few strong, healthy seedlings started at the right time often outperform trays that were begun too early in poor light.

Starting Well Matters

The earliest stages of growth shape the whole season. Good light, consistent moisture, and room for roots to develop properly make a noticeable difference later on.

Many gardeners find it helpful to keep their seed starting setup simple and contained — especially at this time of year when space indoors is often limited. Soil blocking is one approach that allows you to raise multiple seedlings together in a single tray, without dozens of small pots gradually taking over every bright surface.

Each seedling grows in its own block, close but not crowded, making the whole process feel organised rather than chaotic.

It’s not about adding complexity. It’s about creating a steady, manageable start to the season.

If you’re preparing to sow over the coming weeks, you can explore our soil blockers and growing tools here.

Here’s to the gentle start of another growing year.

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