Transitional Temperatures
Weather in March is so unpredictable, especially here in Lane County, Oregon. It may say Spring on the calendar, but the weather rarely cooperates completely. In Zones 8 and higher, including Lane County, the average dates of the last killing frost occur throughout March. Therefore April is a great month to start planting!
Repairs
Make the repairs to fences and arbors now so they will be ready when the weather settles down. Clean out bird houses, feeders and potted planters, if you dare. Watch out for wintering mice as well as those birds that sought refuge in your decking or attice during the winter months.
Seedlings
April is the perfect time for starting summer blooming seedlings indoors and some outdoor. By now, seed packets are available everywhere. It usually takes about four to six weeks for seeds to become strong enough to be planted in planters or garden beds.
Vegetables
Some vegetables can be planted right now in Zones 8. Vegetable seeds may be started in prepared starter pots made of compressed peat and filled with a proper soil mixture. It's a good time to test the pH of your garden soil. You can add whatever you need as soon as the soil is dry; not wet and clumpy.
Pruning and Fertilizer
Roses, in particular, can be pruned and fed this month. Cut roses back sharply for more compact bushes and long, slender stems. Cut honeysuckle vines back to three feet. Prune the fruit trees before the buds appear.
Trees and shrubs can still fertilize and some pruned. Acidic fertilization is needed for azaleas, rhododendrons, evergreens, and conifers.