The first day of March 2026 is marked by questions about the availability of retail outlets and intensive preparations for the growing season. Although March 1st is subject to statutory trade restrictions, the public debate on liberalizing regulations is resurfacing. Simultaneously, experts and gardening enthusiasts point to key maintenance treatments that should be performed after winter frosts subside to ensure the regeneration of lawns and ornamental plants.
Sunday, March 1st without trade
Most shops remain closed. Only establishments exempt from the ban are available, such as gas stations or smaller neighborhood stores.
Gardening season in full swing
March is the time for liming lawns, sowing the first vegetables, and spraying against box tree moth and aphids.
Proposal for a free Good Friday
The Sejm is considering a proposal to make Good Friday a public holiday in 2026, which depends on the decision of parliament and the president.
The beginning of March 2026 brings a convergence of topics related to the organization of daily life and the upcoming change of season. The main point of interest for consumers has become the trading status of Sunday, March 1st. According to the current schedule, the trade restriction law provides for the closure of most establishments on this day, except for gas stations, pharmacies, and shops where the owner stands behind the counter. However, the media highlight the phenomenon of large facilities increasingly opening under various legal pretexts, which intensifies the debate over the future of the ban. On the horizon, legislative proposals are emerging that assume the introduction of at least two trading Sundays per month, which would be a significant shift in the current economic policy. In the area of household economy and agriculture, March is described as a pivotal moment for crop structure and garden aesthetics. A key treatment indicated by numerous sources is liming lawns, aimed at deacidifying the soil and eliminating moss after winter. Experts warn against mowing too early for the first time, suggesting instead focusing on thinning cuts and propagating hydrangeas from hardwood cuttings. Particular attention is paid to protecting boxwoods from pests such as the box tree moth, for which timely spraying is recommended. In recent years, combating invasive pest species has become a systemic challenge in Poland, requiring gardeners to precisely plan chemical and biological treatments already in early spring. An additional thread engaging public opinion is calendar issues and potential changes to public holidays. Discussions are ongoing about establishing Good Friday as a statutory day off, which would require the consent of the Sejm and the signature of the President of Poland. On an international scale, the topic of daylight saving time is returning. Although the schedule for 2026 is already set, foreign media speculate whether this might be one of the last clock adjustments in Europe. The overall picture is complemented by health advice on post-winter body regeneration and proposals for local recreation, promoting walks in regions such as Lower Silesia. „Zacznij już teraz, a wiosną będziesz mieć spokój. Szkodniki nie wracają, a bukszpan zielenieje w oczach.” (Start now, and you'll have peace in spring. Pests don't return, and boxwood greens before your eyes.) — Gardening expert
Perspektywy mediów: Liberal media emphasize the economic losses resulting from the trade ban and promote shopping freedom on Sundays. Conservative media highlight the importance of free time for families and the traditional role of Sunday as a day of rest.