March Gardening Checklist for Northern California: Planting, Maintenance & Events

Planting

Groundcovers

Sunset climate zones 7-9, 14-17: To reduce lawn maintenance, consider replacing part of your turf with drought-tolerant groundcovers. Excellent choices for Northern California include juniper (Juniperus communis 'Mondap', J. conferta 'Blue Pacific', J. c. 'Emerald Sea', J. horizontalis 'Monber', J. h. 'Prince of Wales'), kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Wood's Compact'), Myoporum parvifolium, rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis 'Huntington Carpet'), and Rubus pentalobus 'Emerald Carpet'. Verify that your selection suits your specific microclimate before purchasing.

Lilies

Zones 7-9, 14-17: For fragrance and drama, lilies are unbeatable. Classic favorites include 'Casablanca' and 'Stargazer'. For something different, try orange tiger lilies. If unavailable locally, order from Dutch Gardens (www.dutchgardens.com or 800/944-2250).

Lime

Zones 7-9, 14-17: If you enjoy Thai cooking, plant a 'Kieffer' lime tree now. Its segmented leaves flavor Thai green curries, while the peel of its bumpy green fruit enhances stews and fish cakes (juice is rarely used). Hardy to about 32°F. In borderline areas, protect with frost blankets or move potted plants under an overhang; in cold climates, bring indoors. Available from Four Winds Growers (www.fourwindsgrowers.com).

Potatoes

Zones 7-9, 14-17: New 2005 varieties offer diverse colors and flavors: 'All Blue', 'Purple Peruvian', red 'Sangre', and 'Yellow Finn'. Order these or any of 40 disease-free varieties from Irish Eyes-Garden City Seeds (www.irish-eyes.com or 877/733-3001).

Tuberous Begonias

Zones 7-9, 14-17: Start tubers now. Fill a container with potting mix, set tuber just below soil surface, and soak thoroughly. Place in filtered shade. Water again only when soil surface feels dry. Sprouts appear in a few weeks. Zones 1-2: Start in a greenhouse or cool, dry indoor spot. When leaves emerge, provide bright indirect light at 65-70°F. Move outdoors after frost danger passes.

Maintenance

Check Drip Systems

Zones 7-9, 14-17: Flush sediment from filters and clean algae from screens with a small brush. Turn on water to check for leaks; repair as needed. Ensure all emitters are dripping. Replace clogged emitters (if unremovable, install a new one adjacent). Add emitters if plants have grown significantly since installation. Supplies at local home centers, irrigation stores, or Urban Farmer Store (www.urbanfarmerstore.com or 415/661-2204).

Events

LIVERMORE, MAR 12-13 & MAR 19-20

The Golden Celebration sponsored by the Northern California Daffodil Society and Alden Lane Nursery. View hundreds of daffodils, buy blooms, attend a planting class. Mar 12-13: 1-5 Sat, 9-4 Sun; free.

Annual Citrus Tasting. Sample dozens of uncommon citrus varieties and purchase plants. Mar 19-20, 11-2; free. Alden Lane Nursery, 981 Alden Lane; www.aldenlane.com or 925/447-0280.

MONTEREY, MAR 19

49th Annual Monterey Cutting Day. Exchange cuttings, plants, bulbs, and seeds. Sponsored by Monterey Parks Division, which also gives away tree seedlings. 9-12; free. Colton Hall/Friendly Plaza at Jefferson and Pacific Streets; www.monterey.org or 831/646-3860.

SAN FRANCISCO, MAR 16-20

20th Annual San Francisco Flower & Garden Show. Features 23 display gardens by noted designers, free seminars, expert workshops, and a garden marketplace. 9-8 Wed-Sat, 9-6:30 Sun; $20 ($17 if purchased by Mar 8), $7 ages 4-11. Cow Palace, Geneva Ave. and Santos St.