March · Early spring
What to sow in March in Chicago
40 crops are in their window this month in Chicago — timed to your local frost dates.
Last frost≈ 17 Apr
First frost≈ 30 Oct
Frost-free daysFrom 17 Apr
March averages33°–46°F
Vegetables
30 in season
Arugula
Direct sow · sow every 2-3 weeks for a steady peppery harvest
Broad Beans
Direct sow · pinch growing tips once pods set to deter aphids
Broccoli
Transplant seedlings · keep soil evenly moist for tight, tender heads
Carrots
Direct sow · thin seedlings early so roots have room to grow
Choy Sum
Direct sow · cut flowering stems young for the most tender bite
Herbs
9 in season
Basil
Start indoors · loves heat, don't rush it outside before frost
Chervil
Direct sow · prefers cool shade, bolts quickly once hot
Chives
Start indoors · perennial clumps, snip leaves for repeat harvests
Cilantro
Direct sow · bolts fast in heat, sow small batches often
Oregano
Start indoors · slow from seed, keep soil warm to germinate
Fruit
1 in season
Strawberries
Plant runners · pinch off first-year flowers for stronger plants