March Blooms in Abbey Blooms: A Guide to Spring's Arrival a few words from Debbie our Horticultrist

Spring arrives quietly in Abbey Blooms, but March brings a noticeable shift in the landscape. The cold grip of winter loosens, and the first signs of life begin to emerge. This month marks the start of a vibrant transformation as flowers bloom, trees bud, and the air fills with fresh scents. For nature lovers and gardeners alike, March in Abbey Blooms offers a unique opportunity to witness the early stages of spring’s awakening.

Early Signs of Spring in Abbey Blooms

March is a month of transition. The days grow longer, and temperatures rise just enough to encourage plants to stir from their winter rest. In Abbey Blooms, this change is visible in the delicate flowers that push through the soil and the buds that swell on trees.

Some of the earliest blooms include:

• Snowdrops: These small, white flowers often appear while snow still lingers. They are a clear signal that spring is near.

• Crocuses: Bright purple, yellow, and white crocuses add splashes of color to gardens and parks.

• Daffodils: Known for their cheerful yellow heads, daffodils start to bloom in late March, heralding warmer days ahead.

  
  

These flowers not only brighten the landscape but also provide early nectar for bees and other pollinators, helping to kickstart the ecosystem’s renewal.

March is a busy and exciting month in the gardens in Abbey Blooms, because everything is waking up after winter. All our Perennials begin to push up new shoots, bulbs like daffodils, crocus, hyacinths, and early tulips are in bloom or just about to bloom. 

Our lawn has started to green up as soil temperatures rise. We will be uncovering our tree ferns as soon as there is no late frost.  

We are planting in the polytunnel for use in the cafe, onion sets, shallots, and tomatoes. We have just finished pruning roses early this month. We cut back dead growth from our perennials and ornamental grasses. We will be dividing any clumps of snowdrops so as to allow them to spread more.  

Daffodils blooming in Abbey Park Gardens, early spring flowers in a public garden

Gardening Tips for March Blooms

If you want to bring the spirit of March blooms into your garden, here are some practical tips:

• Plant bulbs in autumn: For flowers like daffodils and crocuses to bloom in March, plant their bulbs in the fall. This gives them time to establish roots before winter.

• Prepare soil early: As soon as the ground thaws, loosen the soil and add compost to provide nutrients for early bloomers.

• Choose native species: Native plants are better adapted to Abbey’s Blooms climate and soil, making them easier to grow and more beneficial for local wildlife.

• Protect young shoots: Late frosts can damage tender shoots. Use cloches or fleece covers to shield plants during cold snaps.

• Encourage pollinators: Plant a variety of flowers that bloom at different times to support

bees and butterflies throughout the season.

Tips for your garden for the month of March

First light lawn cut of the year, high setting to avoid stressing the grass.

Scarify the lawn if the weather allows, and soil isn’t waterlogged.

Apply lawn feed and moss control.

Control early weeds before they take off.

Mulching of all the beds to conserve moisture and suppress weed, we do this each second year.

Check tree straps and any shrubs that may need support

As the Birds are beginning to nest, we avoid heavy hedge trimming from now on.

Put out feeders to attract small birds to the gardens.

Inspect irrigation systems, hoses, and outdoor taps.

Check tree supports, stakes, and ties.

Repair garden structures: fences, trellises, raised beds.

Power wash paths, patios, and outdoor areas.

Prepare compost bays for the growing season.

Feed roses and or add manure around them but not directly in contact with the stems.

The Role of March Blooms in Abbey’s Blooms Ecosystem

March flowers play a crucial role beyond their beauty. They support early pollinators, which are essential for the health of the local environment. Bees, butterflies, and other insects rely on these early blooms for food after winter scarcity.

Additionally, these plants help stabilize soil and prevent erosion as the ground begins to warm and thaw. Their roots hold the soil in place, reducing runoff and supporting the growth of other plants later in the season.

Community Events Celebrating March Blooms

In Abbey Blooms, the arrival of spring is often celebrated with community events that highlight the beauty of March blooms. These include:

• Mother's day afternoon tea in the garden with the option to take part in a wreath making workshop

• Saint Patricks day celebration were we join together with the community with song dance from local musicans and Irish dancers

  
  

Participating in these events can deepen your appreciation for Abbey’s Blooms natural environment and connect you with others who share your interest in gardening and nature and community spirit.

Planning a Visit to Abbey Blooms in March

If you plan to visit Abbey to enjoy the March blooms, consider these tips:

• Dress for variable weather: March weather can be unpredictable. Layered clothing and waterproof shoes will keep you comfortable.

• Bring a camera or sketchbook: Early spring flowers offer great opportunities for photography and drawing. Dont forget to tag us! #abbeyblooms

• Check local event calendars: Align your visit with community events to enhance your experience.

• Respect nature: Stay on paths, avoid picking flowers, and leave no trace to preserve the beauty for others.

We look forward to meeting you !