Saskatchewan Seed to Starting in March (Zone 3B)

As winter slowly loosens its grip on Saskatchewan, March is the perfect time to start planning and planting seeds indoors for the upcoming growing season. If you live where we do in Zone 3B, where the last frost date typically falls around June 1, getting a head start with indoor seedlings can mean an earlier and more productive harvest - especially with our 90 day growing season!

Here’s a guide to what seeds you should start in March for your Zone 3B garden.

Why Start Seeds Indoors?

Many plants need a longer growing season than our short Saskatchewan summers allow. By starting seeds indoors, you give these plants a crucial head start, ensuring they reach maturity before the first fall frost. Indoor seed starting also allows for stronger, more resilient plants ready for transplanting when the weather is warm enough.

Vegetables:

1. Tomatoes – Most tomato varieties need 6-8 weeks indoors before transplanting. Choose cold-tolerant types like ‘Subarctic Plenty’ or ‘Prairie Pride’ for better success in Zone 3B.

2. Peppers – Bell, hot, and specialty peppers need a long growing season. Start them 8-10 weeks before the last frost date.

3. Onions – Bulbing onions require an early start for a successful harvest. Start seeds indoors in early March for transplanting in late May.

4. Brassicas (Cabbage, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts) – These hardy crops can be started in March and transplanted outdoors in late April or early May.

5. Celery – With its long growing season, celery needs at least 10 weeks indoors before moving to the garden.

6. Leeks – Like onions, leeks benefit from an early start to maximize their growing time

Herbs:

1. Basil – While basil prefers warmth, starting it indoors allows for earlier harvesting once temperatures rise. Be sure to clip these down once their first set of true leaves form to encourage growth!

2. Parsley – Slow to germinate, parsley should be started early for better establishment.

3. Thyme, Oregano, and Sage – These perennial herbs benefit from early starts and can be transplanted when the soil is warm enough.

   
   
   

   

   
   
   

   Tips for Successful Indoor Seed Starting

   • Use Quality Seed-Starting Mix: Avoid heavy garden soil, which can compact and hinder germination. Try to find mixes with the simplest ingredients.

   • Provide Plenty of Light: Seedlings need at least 12-16 hours of light daily. Use grow lights if natural light is insufficient.

   • Keep Soil Moist but Not Soggy: Use a spray bottle or gentle watering to prevent overwatering.

   • Maintain Consistent Temperatures: Most seeds germinate best at 18-24°C. A heat mat can help with warmth-loving plants like peppers and tomatoes.

   • Harden Off Before Transplanting: Before moving plants outdoors, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions over a week to prevent transplant shock. I like to have a fan on my seedlings once they are up, this also helps to reduce mildew/algae on the surface of the soil as well.

   • Keep it Simple: There are so many great tools for starting seeds, but you don't need to invest a lot into getting your own garden going! Solo cups with holes in the bottom and a plate are a great inexpensive way to get seedlings going. One piece I have found to be so handy is trays for seed trays to sit on that are flat. I buy mine from Wholesale club but you can find them HERE.

   
   

4. By starting seeds indoors in March, you’ll be well on your way to a thriving garden when Saskatchewan’s growing season arrives. Happy planting!