This Month in your Garden - March

“In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.”

Margaret Atwood


Spring officially starts on the first of March but then the daffodils, crocuses and primulas seem to
have been telling us that in the southern counties for the past couple of weeks. But what a mixed bag of weather we’ve had across the whole of the UK in the past few weeks. Now, hopefully we can look towards getting our hands dirty in the garden.

The Lawn Care Guide - March

One man (or woman) went to mow....

Depending on the soil temperature you will probably be mowing the lawn by now, starting as always at a high cut height to take off just the tip of the grass. You’ll gradually lower the cutting height of the mower or cutting deck on the garden tractor as the weather gets warmer and the grass is in full growth.

One thing that is noticeable after the winter months is how patchy the grass can look and this may be pointing to the need for ‘over-sowing’ or ‘over-seeding’. The problem with constant mowing is the grass doesn’t get the chance to seed itself naturally and periodically needs a helping hand with an application of seed to rejuvenate it.

Lawn Care: Questions and Answers

Q. When is the best time to seed the patches in my lawn left by the removal of moss. And also the best method?

Lawn Care: Questions and Answers

Q. I have identified Fusarium patch in my lawn even though I have regularly scarified, aerated and top dressed. What could be the cause?

The Vegetable Plot - March

Sow to your heart’s content

This month you can sow a dazzling variety of vegetables if you’re so inclined, and your plot is large enough and the weather fair; or simply be content with your favourite veg. Sow under cloches if the soil is sandy and you’re in a mild area.

Broad beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, lettuces and more in the list below will keep the vegetables on the table. If you have light soil you can plant out garlic and shallots – heavy soils need longer to warm up.

The Big Glut Recipe - March

Poached chicken with carrots, kale and mushrooms

A light and healthy bite from James Martin and Saturday Kitchen

Ingredients

For the chicken

• 1 whole chicken, legs and thighs removed (you can use them in another dish)
• 1 litre/1¾ pints chicken stock
• salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 25g/1oz butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil