Blooming Into Spring: The Best Flowers to Plant in March in the Northeast (Perennials & Annuals)

After months of snow and chilly winds, March in the Northeastern United States feels like a breath of fresh air. As the days grow longer and the soil begins to thaw, gardeners everywhere are itching to get their hands in the dirt and welcome the first signs of spring. But what should you plant to ensure a garden that bursts with color and life all season long?

Before we dig in, let’s quickly break down the difference: Perennials are the reliable friends that return year after year, while annuals shine brightly for a single season before bowing out. Mixing both gives you a garden that’s vibrant now and for years to come!

Perennials to Plant in March

• Pansies: These cheerful blooms are among the hardiest, able to withstand a late frost and add instant color to beds and containers.
• Daylilies: Plant bare roots early, and you’ll be rewarded with lush, trumpet-shaped flowers come summer.
• Peonies: Though they take a little time to establish, peonies planted in early spring will grace your garden with fragrant, show-stopping blooms for decades.
• Iris: These elegant flowers do well when planted as soon as the ground is workable, promising striking blues, purples, and yellows later in the season.

Annuals to Start in March

• Snapdragons: Start seeds indoors or plant hardy varieties outside for playful spikes of color that last into early summer.
• Sweet Alyssum: Known for its honey-scented, delicate flowers, this annual can handle cool temperatures and makes a lovely border or groundcover.
• Calendula: Sometimes called "pot marigold," calendula thrives in the chilly spring air and brings cheerful yellows and oranges to your garden beds.
• Poppies: Sow poppy seeds directly in the garden while the soil is still cool. Their whimsical blooms are a sure sign that spring has arrived!

Tips for Early Spring Planting

• Check your soil—if it crumbles in your hand, you’re ready to plant!
• Start seeds indoors for annuals that need a head start, and protect young plants with row covers if a cold snap is in the forecast.
• Mix perennials and annuals for a garden that offers both immediate color and lasting beauty.

March is all about anticipation and hope. With the right mix of hardy perennials and cool-loving annuals, your Northeast garden will be bursting with life before you know it. Happy planting! 🌸