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March marks the period when plants begin displaying greater vitality, yet it can also leave gardeners feeling swamped, given the sheer volume of tasks requiring attention outdoors.

Whilst spring officially arrives on March 20, even as the mercury climbs, Monty Don has noted that this is when British weather becomes particularly unpredictable.

Writing on his website, Monty observed: "March changes from day to day, even hour to hour. We often have snow, frost, wind, rain and warm sunshine and always have daffodils, blossom, fritillaries, the hedges breaking into leaf and the grass growing. "

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Gardeners can find it genuinely challenging to venture outside and accomplish anything, but Monty has revealed several straightforward jobs that will make spring preparation considerably easier if tackled promptly.

Monty Don's gardening jobs for March Continue feeding the birds

With birds now starting to lay eggs and rear their young, it's crucial for compassionate gardeners to keep topping up birdfeeders, giving fledglings the best possible chance of survival.

Monty explained: "This [is] a time that puts great demands on their energy when there is not much natural food around, so keep feeding the birds all month, concentrating on high-energy items such as fat, peanuts and sunflower seeds."

Fatty foods are ideal for giving birds the energy boost they need, but if you're watching your spending, you can offer them leftovers such as potatoes, rice or even eggshells.

If you've got a bird bath, ensure it remains in working order, or put out water for birds, as many of their usual water sources will still be partly frozen.

Start planting vegetables

March is when the soil begins warming up, meaning gardeners can commence preparations for planting robust vegetables that cope well with damp and blustery conditions, reports the Express.

That said, caution is essential: the soil must be fully thawed, and if it remains frozen or waterlogged, you're better off sowing seeds indoors in containers initially.

You'll also require some form of protection, such as horticultural fleece for crops presently, to shield them from the elements, which will additionally accelerate their development, enabling you to start enjoying fresh vegetables straight from your garden.

Monty advised: "Sow seeds under cover such as cabbage, lettuce, celery, beetroot and tomatoes. Do not sow any seeds outside if the ground feels cold to the touch.If warm and dry enough, sow broad beans, beetroot, rocket, spinach, mizuna, parsnips, radish and winter lettuce."

Be mindful when tidying up your garden

March often leaves gardens in a bit of a state, so it's the perfect time to start tidying up, making way for new growth come spring.

It's important to rake up any fallen leaves to prevent the spread of fungal diseases, collect any dropped branches and replace old mulch from flower beds if it appears compacted.

Now is also an ideal time to give your lawn a once-over, removing any moss or dead foliage that might be stifling the grass, ensuring optimal conditions for regrowth.

However, do remember to check your garden before embarking on a clear-up, as hedgehogs may be emerging from hibernation, birds could be beginning to nest, and butterflies might be seeking sheltered spots to form their cocoons.

Monty cautioned: "Try not to disturb natural hibernation spots, especially if you are vigorously tidying up after a long winter. These creatures all make a slow start and will be lethargic and weak - be mindful of them."