The Island Gardener for March 2026

||| FROM ORCAS ISLAND GARDEN CLUB |||

March in the garden is always a bit of a tug-of-war between patience and pure excitement. Even after all these years, I still find myself getting swept up in the “spring fever” that hits right after a trip to the NW Flower and Garden Show. It’s so easy to let a few sunny days lull you into planting early, only to have a sudden chilly night remind you Mother Nature’s in charge! But even the mistakes we make as gardeners usually turn into a good story eventually.

If you look closely, though, the real signs of spring are already here. I’ve been watching the bumblebees—so silly and clumsy—foraging in the bright blue muscari. My flowering currants are in full bloom, and the fritillaria are just about to pop. These steady, predictable moments are such a lovely reminder that the season is finally turning.

Spring always feels like a chance to start a fresh chapter. Whether you’re moving a plant to a sunnier spot, rotating your veggies, or adding more native plants to help our pollinators, it’s the perfect time to put everything we’ve learned into practice.

We’re bringing that same spirit of “new beginnings” to the club too. We’ve got some fun new things happening, like our walking group, the “tater project,” and “Coffee with the Presidents.” Be sure to check the club calendar for where Robin and I will be meeting on the first and last Mondays of the month—we’d love to see you there!

I recently came across that famous Mary Oliver quote: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” It really got me thinking… what do you plan to do with your wild and precious garden? March is a little uncertain and a little exciting all at once. As we keep a close eye on the thermometer each day, let’s try to enjoy the lesson in flexibility and calmness this month brings.