Bossier Parish, LA — Planting Guide
Your May game plan for Bossier Parish, Louisiana
Your garden in Bossier Parish, Louisiana is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this May.
-
Begin indoor sowing: basil, peppers, and pole beans
These need a head start before your last frost (March 15). Sow into cells now so you're ready to transplant in a few weeks.
-
Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
Before June arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Bossier Parish is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 15 and the first fall frost is November 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 244 days.
At an elevation of 469 ft, Bossier Parish receives approximately 59.2 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 94°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 40 days year to year — ranging from February 28 in warm years to April 8 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 4.02 days per decade. Bossier Parish scores 50/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 15
🍂 First Frost
November 14
📅 Growing Season
244 days
⛰️ Elevation
469 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
59.2 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 | 5 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 5.1 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 6.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.5 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Oct | 4.1 in | 6 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Nov | 5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Dec | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 59.3 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.
Bossier Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6-7.2
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) | Apr 8 | Nov 30 | 236 days |
| Cautious | Mar 24 | Nov 20 | 241 days |
| Average year | Mar 15 | Nov 14 | 244 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 9 | Nov 4 | 240 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 28 | Oct 27 | 241 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±40 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 4 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Bossier Parish presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Bossier 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 Bossier Parish's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Bossier 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 Bossier Parish
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Bossier Parish
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Bossier 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 Bossier Parish LA" or "garden center Bossier 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 Bossier Parish LA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Bossier 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
8.9 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 | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.2 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 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
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 46°F | 53°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 | 73°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 81°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 89°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 91°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 84°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 63°F | 68°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 51°F | 58°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 Bossier 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 Bossier 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 24 | Sep 5 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 19 | Sep 5 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 15 | Sep 5 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 17 | Sep 19 | ✓ 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 31 | Oct 17 | — | 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 10 | Mar 1 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 6 | Feb 22 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 5 | Feb 22 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 2 | Mar 1 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 3 | Feb 22 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 25 | Mar 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 24 | Feb 22 | — | 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: 9 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
3.4/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (376 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
29,555 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
Feb, Mar, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Sep, 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 59.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,555 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 Bossier Parish
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6–7.2 · 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. (59.2 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
244-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 Bossier Parish
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bossier Parish.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 29 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 1 | — | Apr 26 – May 24 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 9 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 29 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 1 | — | May 3 – Jun 7 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jun 28 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 17 – Jun 28 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Jul 19 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Mar 29 – Apr 19 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 1 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 1 | — | Apr 26 – May 24 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 22 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 11 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Aug 9 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Nov 29 – Dec 13 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 29 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 11 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Sep 13 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 3 – May 31 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 22 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 3 – Jun 7 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Jun 14 – Aug 30 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Jun 7 – Jul 19 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 19 – Jun 28 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Sep 13 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Mar 22 – Apr 19 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | May 3 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 19 – May 17 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jun 14 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 1 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 11 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Aug 16 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 1 | — | Mar 29 – Apr 19 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 31 – Jul 12 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 1 | — | May 24 – Jun 28 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 1 | — | Jun 14 – Jul 26 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jun 7 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 19 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | May 10 – Jul 5 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 22 | — | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 17 – Jul 19 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 29 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 22 | — | May 24 – Jul 5 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 19 – May 24 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Nov 29 – Dec 13 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 1 | — | Apr 12 – May 17 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 15 | Apr 26 – May 31 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 22 | — | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 5 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 15 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Bossier Parish
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bossier Parish.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Oct 18 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 5 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 5 | Jul 5 – Dec 20 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Bossier Parish
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Bossier Parish.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | Jun 7 – Aug 23 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 22 | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | May 3 – Jun 21 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | May 10 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 22 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 22 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 22 | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | May 10 – Jul 19 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 22 | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 22 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 22 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 22 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 22 | Jun 21 – Nov 22 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 22 | May 24 – Jul 12 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 22 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | Jun 14 – Sep 13 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 22 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 22 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 22 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 22 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | May 10 – Jul 12 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 22 | Jun 14 – Nov 1 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 22 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 22 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 22 | May 17 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 8 | Mar 1 | Mar 8 | Apr 19 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 31 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 22 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 25 | Mar 22 | Mar 29 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 22 | May 31 – Aug 2 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 22 | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 22 | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Bossier Parish
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Bossier Parish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Bossier Parish, LA?
Bossier 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 Bossier Parish, LA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Bossier Parish falls around March 15. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 28 and April 8 — a 40-day window of variability. Use April 8 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Bossier Parish, LA?
The median first fall frost in Bossier Parish arrives around November 14. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 27; in mild years as late as November 30. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Bossier Parish?
Bossier Parish has a frost-free growing season of approximately 244 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 4.02 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Bossier Parish for gardening?
Bossier Parish has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6–7.2 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Bossier Parish?
Bossier Parish has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Sugarcane, Rice, Cotton, Cattle. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Bossier Parish a good location for home gardening?
Bossier Parish scores 50/100 (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 Bossier Parish Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Bossier 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