Beauregard Parish, LA — Planting Guide
May in the garden — Beauregard Parish, Louisiana
A quick May briefing for Beauregard Parish, Louisiana gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Coming up in June — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Beauregard Parish is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 7 and the first fall frost is November 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 254 days.
At an elevation of 206 ft, Beauregard Parish receives approximately 49.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 91°F with winter lows around 40°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 56 days year to year — ranging from February 9 in warm years to April 6 in cold years. Beauregard Parish scores 63/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 7
🍂 First Frost
November 16
📅 Growing Season
254 days
⛰️ Elevation
206 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
49.3 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 | 3.8 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.5 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 4.2 in | 10 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.2 in | 9 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jun | 4 in | 9 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Jul | 5.4 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.8 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.4 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 7 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.9 in | 7 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Dec | 3.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 49.4 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.
Beauregard Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
4.8-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 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) | Apr 6 | Dec 11 | 249 days |
| Cautious | Mar 19 | Nov 25 | 251 days |
| Average year | Mar 7 | Nov 16 | 254 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 27 | Nov 9 | 255 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 9 | Oct 27 | 260 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±56 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 shorter (0.5 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Beauregard Parish offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Beauregard 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 Beauregard Parish's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Beauregard 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 Beauregard Parish
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Beauregard Parish
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Beauregard 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 Beauregard Parish LA" or "garden center Beauregard 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 Beauregard Parish LA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Beauregard 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
8.4 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 | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 hr | 4.6 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
9 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 48°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 52°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 74°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 81°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 91°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 88°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 75°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 62°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 49°F | 59°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Beauregard 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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Whiteflies | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | 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 Beauregard 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 13 | Sep 7 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 8 | Sep 7 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 16 | Sep 21 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 8 | Sep 21 | ✓ 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 | Apr 2 | Nov 2 | — | 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 8 | Feb 14 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 4 | Feb 21 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 6 | Feb 14 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 24 | Feb 21 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 18 | Feb 21 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 25 | Feb 21 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 14 | Feb 21 | — | 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: 8 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Low wind — no windbreak needed for most crops.
Windbreak Benefit
2.5/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (507 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
24,620 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 500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Feb, Jul, Aug, Sep
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Oct, 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 49.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 24,620 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Apr, Oct, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Beauregard Parish
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 4.8–6.2 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
254-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.
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Beauregard Parish
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Beauregard Parish.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 21 | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 14 | — | Apr 11 – May 9 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 21 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 14 | — | Apr 18 – May 23 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 20 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 30 – Jul 11 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 2 – May 30 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jul 11 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 21 – Apr 11 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 2 – May 30 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 14 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 14 | — | Apr 11 – May 9 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 14 | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 2 – May 30 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Nov 14 – Jan 9 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 21 | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Aug 29 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 14 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 30 – Jul 11 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 20 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jun 6 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 11 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 – Apr 11 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 11 – May 9 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jun 6 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 18 – May 16 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 14 | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 2 – May 30 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Aug 1 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 14 | — | Mar 14 – Apr 4 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 14 | — | May 9 – Jun 13 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 14 | — | May 30 – Jul 11 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 11 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 2 – May 30 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jun 20 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 14 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Aug 1 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 21 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 11 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 14 | — | May 16 – Jun 27 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Nov 14 – Jan 9 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 14 | — | Mar 28 – May 2 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Mar 7 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 11 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 14 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 1 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | Sep 12 – Jan 9 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 24 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Mar 14 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Beauregard Parish
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Beauregard Parish.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 21 | Jun 20 – Oct 3 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 21 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 21 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 21 | Jun 13 – Jul 25 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 21 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 21 | Jun 20 – Jan 16 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Beauregard Parish
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Beauregard Parish.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 30 – Aug 15 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 13 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jul 11 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 14 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Nov 14 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 4 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | May 30 – Aug 29 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Oct 24 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 14 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 7 | Feb 14 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – Jun 13 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 14 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 24 | Mar 14 | Mar 14 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 25 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Aug 29 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Beauregard Parish
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Beauregard Parish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Beauregard Parish, LA?
Beauregard 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 Beauregard Parish, LA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Beauregard Parish falls around March 7. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 9 and April 6 — a 56-day window of variability. Use April 6 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Beauregard Parish, LA?
The median first fall frost in Beauregard Parish arrives around November 16. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 27; in mild years as late as December 11. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Beauregard Parish?
Beauregard Parish has a frost-free growing season of approximately 254 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons.
What is the soil like in Beauregard Parish for gardening?
Beauregard Parish has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 4.8–6.2 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Beauregard Parish?
Beauregard Parish has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Sugarcane, Rice. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Beauregard Parish a good location for home gardening?
Beauregard Parish scores 63/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Beauregard Parish Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Beauregard 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