Sabine Parish, LA — Planting Guide
What to do in April
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this April, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Set out alpine strawberries, aronia, and blackberries seedlings
Your last frost (March 12) has passed. These warm-season crops can handle outdoor soil now.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, cucumber, and kale
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
Start harvesting carrots, lettuce, and radish
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Looking ahead to May
- Starting indoors: peppers, eggplant, and hot peppers
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Sabine Parish is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and the first fall frost is November 15, giving you a growing season of approximately 248 days.
At an elevation of 456 ft, Sabine Parish receives approximately 51.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 95°F with winter lows around 38°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 55 days year to year — ranging from February 12 in warm years to April 7 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 0.7 days per decade. Sabine Parish scores 70/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
8b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 12
🍂 First Frost
November 15
📅 Growing Season
248 days
⛰️ Elevation
456 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
51.8 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 | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| May | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.1 in | 12 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jul | 5.5 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Dec | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 51.8 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.
Sabine Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.2
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 7 | Dec 1 | 238 days |
| Cautious | Mar 22 | Nov 22 | 245 days |
| Average year | Mar 12 | Nov 15 | 248 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 4 | Nov 7 | 248 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 12 | Oct 26 | 256 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±55 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 (0.7 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Sabine Parish offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Sabine 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 Sabine Parish's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Sabine 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 Sabine Parish
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Sabine Parish
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Sabine 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 Sabine Parish LA" or "garden center Sabine 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 Sabine Parish LA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Sabine 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 | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.2 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 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 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 | 47°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 48°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 53°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 63°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 74°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 81°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 91°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 90°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 84°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 74°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 60°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 53°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 Sabine 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 Sabine 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 20 | Sep 20 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 21 | Sep 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 17 | Sep 13 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 10 | Sep 6 | ✓ 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 28 | Oct 25 | — | 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 5 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 16 | Feb 26 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 1 | Feb 19 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 24 | Feb 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 1 | Feb 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 9 | Feb 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 25 | Feb 26 | — | 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: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (455 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
25,817 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
Jan, Mar, Jul, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Sep, 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 51.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,817 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 Sabine Parish
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.3–7.2 · Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 1.5/10
Sabine Parish has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
248-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 Sabine Parish
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Sabine Parish.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 26 | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 26 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 26 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 16 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Mar 26 – Apr 16 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 26 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 23 – May 21 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 8 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Nov 26 – Dec 10 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 26 | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 8 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Sep 10 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 25 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Mar 19 – Apr 16 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 26 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jun 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 8 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 26 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 16 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 26 | — | May 21 – Jun 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 26 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 19 | — | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 26 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 19 | — | May 21 – Jul 2 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Nov 26 – Dec 10 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 9 – May 14 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 12 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 19 | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 12 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Sabine Parish
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Sabine Parish.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Oct 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 2 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 2 | Jul 2 – Dec 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Sabine Parish
42 herbs that grow well in Zone 8b with planting dates for Sabine Parish.
Show all 42 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Nov 19 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Jun 11 – Sep 10 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 11 – Oct 29 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 19 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 5 | Feb 26 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 19 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Sabine Parish
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Sabine Parish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Sabine Parish, LA?
Sabine 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 Sabine Parish, LA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Sabine Parish falls around March 12. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 12 and April 7 — a 55-day window of variability. Use April 7 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Sabine Parish, LA?
The median first fall frost in Sabine Parish arrives around November 15. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 26; in mild years as late as December 1. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Sabine Parish?
Sabine Parish has a frost-free growing season of approximately 248 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 0.7 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Sabine Parish for gardening?
Sabine Parish has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.3–7.2 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Sabine Parish?
Sabine Parish has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Sugarcane, Corn, Rice, Cotton. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Sabine Parish a good location for home gardening?
Sabine 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 Sabine Parish Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Sabine 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