Avoyelles Parish, LA — Planting Guide
What to do in May
May rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana.
-
Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Before June arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Avoyelles Parish is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 25 and the first fall frost is November 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 275 days.
At an elevation of 231 ft, Avoyelles Parish receives approximately 48.2 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 93°F with winter lows around 36°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 41 days year to year — ranging from January 31 in warm years to March 12 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 0.5 days per decade. Avoyelles Parish scores 70/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 25
🍂 First Frost
November 26
📅 Growing Season
275 days
⛰️ Elevation
231 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
48.2 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4 in | 10 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Mar | 4.7 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.8 in | 8 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| May | 4 in | 8 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.2 in | 11 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Aug | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Oct | 2.9 in | 6 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.2 in | 6 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 48.2 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Avoyelles Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Mar 12 | Dec 15 | 278 days |
| Cautious | Mar 4 | Dec 4 | 275 days |
| Average year | Feb 25 | Nov 26 | 274 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 14 | Nov 17 | 276 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 31 | Nov 12 | 285 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±41 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.5 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Avoyelles Parish offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Avoyelles Parish
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Avoyelles Parish's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Avoyelles Parish LSU AgCenter Extension Extension Office
Phone: 225-578-4161
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Avoyelles Parish
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Avoyelles Parish
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Avoyelles Parish's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Avoyelles Parish LA" or "garden center Avoyelles Parish" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Avoyelles Parish LA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Avoyelles Parish Gardeners" or "Louisiana Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.7 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.2 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 48°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 48°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 55°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 64°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 74°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 84°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 94°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 88°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 61°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 52°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Avoyelles Parish
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | High | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
Organic pest management tips
- Install physical barriers: floating row covers, copper tape for slugs, mesh netting
- Apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for caterpillar control — safe for beneficial insects
- Use kaolin clay spray to deter a wide range of insects on fruiting crops
- Release beneficial insects: ladybugs for aphids, parasitic wasps for caterpillars
- Apply neem oil weekly during high-pressure months
- Mulch heavily (3-4 inches) to reduce soil-borne disease splash
Cover Crops for Avoyelles Parish
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 3 | Sep 24 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 7 | Sep 17 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 8 | Sep 24 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 25 | Sep 17 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Mar 9 | Nov 12 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 22 | Feb 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 1 | Feb 11 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 7 | Feb 11 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 2 | Feb 4 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 23 | Feb 4 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Sep 3 | Feb 4 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Sep 5 | Feb 11 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.3/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (392 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
24,022 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Mar, Jun, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Oct, Nov, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 48.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,022 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Oct, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Avoyelles Parish
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.3–6.7 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (48.2 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
275-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Avoyelles Parish
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Avoyelles Parish.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 11 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 4 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 11 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 8 – May 13 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 10 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | May 20 – Jul 1 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 4 | — | May 6 – Jul 1 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 11 – Apr 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 4 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 1 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 4 | — | May 20 – Jul 1 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | May 13 – Jun 24 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Nov 4 – Dec 30 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 4 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 11 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Aug 19 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 15 – May 13 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 4 | — | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 15 – May 20 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Aug 12 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | May 20 – Jul 1 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 1 – Jun 10 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 17 – Aug 19 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Aug 19 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 1 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 – Apr 1 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 10 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 1 – Apr 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – May 27 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – May 27 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 8 – May 6 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 4 | — | May 20 – Jul 1 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 22 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 4 | — | Mar 4 – Mar 25 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | May 13 – Jun 24 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 4 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 3 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 4 | — | May 20 – Jul 1 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | May 6 – Jul 1 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – May 20 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 10 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | May 27 – Jul 15 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 14 | Mar 4 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 4 | — | May 27 – Jul 22 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 27 – Jul 22 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 11 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 1 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 4 | — | May 6 – Jun 17 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 1 – May 6 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Nov 4 – Dec 30 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 4 | — | Mar 18 – Apr 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 25 | Apr 8 – May 13 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 1 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 4 | — | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Jul 22 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Sep 2 – Dec 30 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 14 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 10 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 28 | Feb 25 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Avoyelles Parish
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Avoyelles Parish.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Sep 23 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 11 | May 20 – Jun 24 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 11 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 3 – Jul 15 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 11 | Jun 10 – Jan 6 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Avoyelles Parish
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Avoyelles Parish.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | May 20 – Aug 5 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 14 | Mar 4 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Aug 19 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 15 – Jun 3 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 8 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jul 1 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Oct 14 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 14 | Mar 4 | Mar 4 | Apr 22 – Jun 17 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jul 1 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Aug 19 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 4 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Nov 4 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jun 24 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 14 | Mar 4 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 14 | Mar 4 | Mar 4 | May 20 – Aug 19 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 22 – Jun 24 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 4 | May 27 – Oct 14 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 4 | May 20 – Jul 15 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jun 24 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 28 | Feb 4 | Feb 18 | Apr 1 – Jun 3 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 14 | Mar 4 | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 4 | May 6 – Jul 15 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 14 | Mar 4 | Mar 4 | Apr 29 – Jul 1 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 4 | May 13 – Jul 15 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 4 | Jul 8 – Oct 14 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 4 | Jun 3 – Aug 19 | 90–120 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Avoyelles Parish
1 flowers that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Avoyelles Parish.
Show all 1 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marigolds | Apr 1 | Feb 11 | Feb 11 | Apr 8 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Avoyelles Parish
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Avoyelles Parish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Avoyelles Parish, LA?
Avoyelles Parish is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Avoyelles Parish, LA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Avoyelles Parish falls around February 25. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 31 and March 12 — a 41-day window of variability. Use March 12 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Avoyelles Parish, LA?
The median first fall frost in Avoyelles Parish arrives around November 26. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 12; in mild years as late as December 15. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Avoyelles Parish?
Avoyelles Parish has a frost-free growing season of approximately 275 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 0.5 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Avoyelles Parish for gardening?
Avoyelles Parish has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.3–6.7 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Avoyelles Parish?
Avoyelles Parish has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Sugarcane, Rice, Cotton, Corn. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Avoyelles Parish a good location for home gardening?
Avoyelles Parish scores 70/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. This is an above-average location for home gardening with relatively predictable growing conditions.
Your Avoyelles Parish Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Avoyelles Parish (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log