Bienville Parish, LA — Planting Guide
Your May game plan for Bienville Parish, Louisiana
May is a pivotal month for Bienville Parish, Louisiana gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, peppers, and pole beans
Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.
-
Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
Before June arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Bienville Parish is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 16 and the first fall frost is November 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 241 days.
At an elevation of 438 ft, Bienville Parish receives approximately 56 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 94°F with winter lows around 38°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 39 days year to year — ranging from March 3 in warm years to April 11 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 2.01 days per decade. Bienville Parish scores 55/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 16
🍂 First Frost
November 12
📅 Growing Season
241 days
⛰️ Elevation
438 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
56 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 | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.2 in | 10 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Mar | 5.3 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.8 in | 9 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| May | 4.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.8 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 6.5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.8 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 4.1 in | 6 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Nov | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Dec | 5 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 56 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.
Bienville Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
5.9-6.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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) | Apr 11 | Nov 29 | 232 days |
| Cautious | Mar 25 | Nov 16 | 236 days |
| Average year | Mar 16 | Nov 12 | 241 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 10 | Nov 2 | 237 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 3 | Oct 20 | 231 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±39 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bienville Parish presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Bienville 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 Bienville Parish's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bienville 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 Bienville Parish
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bienville Parish
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bienville 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 Bienville Parish LA" or "garden center Bienville 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 Bienville Parish LA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bienville 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
14.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.5 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 | 10.1 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.2 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 hr | 5 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 Oct.
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 | 45°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 45°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 82°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 91°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 90°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 86°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 60°F | 68°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 Bienville 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 | 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 Bienville 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 23 | Sep 3 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 23 | Sep 3 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 26 | Sep 17 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 17 | 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 29 | Oct 15 | — | 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 9 | Feb 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 16 | Feb 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 20 | Feb 23 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 27 | Mar 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 17 | Mar 2 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 22 | Mar 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 17 | Feb 23 | — | 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: 7 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
2.9/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (546 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
27,910 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 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, May, Jul, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Oct, Nov
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 56.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,910 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
Soil & Growing Conditions in Bienville Parish
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 5.9–6.9 · Excessively 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. (56 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
241-day frost-free season
Plenty of time for warm-season crops. Start heat-lovers indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost to maximise your harvest window.
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
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Bienville Parish
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bienville Parish.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 30 | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 30 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 30 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 2 | — | May 4 – Jun 8 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jun 29 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jun 29 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Jul 20 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Mar 30 – Apr 20 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 2 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 27 – May 25 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 12 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Nov 30 – Dec 14 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 30 | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 12 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 29 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Mar 23 – Apr 20 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 20 – May 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 27 – May 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 2 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 12 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 2 | — | Mar 30 – Apr 20 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 1 – Jul 13 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 2 | — | May 25 – Jun 29 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 2 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | May 11 – Jul 6 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 23 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 30 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 23 | — | May 25 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 20 – May 25 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Nov 30 – Dec 14 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 2 | — | Apr 13 – May 18 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 16 | Apr 27 – Jun 1 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 27 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 23 | — | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 6 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 16 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Bienville Parish
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bienville Parish.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 6 | Jul 6 – Oct 19 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 6 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 6 | Jul 6 – Dec 21 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Bienville Parish
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bienville Parish.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Jun 8 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | May 4 – Jun 22 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 23 | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Nov 23 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 23 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 15 – Sep 14 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 23 | May 18 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | Apr 20 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 23 | May 25 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 26 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | May 25 – Jul 27 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 23 | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 23 | Jun 22 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Bienville Parish
1 flowers that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bienville Parish.
Show all 1 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marigolds | Apr 20 | Mar 2 | Mar 2 | Apr 27 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Bienville Parish
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Bienville Parish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Bienville Parish, LA?
Bienville Parish is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. 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 Bienville Parish, LA?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Bienville Parish falls around March 16. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between March 3 and April 11 — a 39-day window of variability. Use April 11 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Bienville Parish, LA?
The median first fall frost in Bienville Parish arrives around November 12. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 20; in mild years as late as November 29. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Bienville Parish?
Bienville Parish has a frost-free growing season of approximately 241 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 shorter by about 2.01 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Bienville Parish for gardening?
Bienville Parish has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 5.9–6.9 and Excessively Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Bienville Parish?
Bienville Parish has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Sugarcane, Rice, Cattle, Corn. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Bienville Parish a good location for home gardening?
Bienville Parish scores 55/100 (Moderate) 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 Bienville Parish Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Bienville Parish (Zone 8b). 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