St. Charles Parish, LA — Planting Guide
Top priorities for St. Charles Parish, Louisiana gardeners in May
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this May, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Basket week: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Before June arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
St. Charles Parish is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 20 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 285 days.
At an elevation of 154 ft, St. Charles Parish receives approximately 54.3 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 103°F with winter lows around 51°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 62 days year to year — ranging from January 19 in warm years to March 22 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.78 days per decade. St. Charles Parish scores 53/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 20
🍂 First Frost
December 1
📅 Growing Season
285 days
⛰️ Elevation
154 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
54.3 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 | 4.3 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 4.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.2 in | 7 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| May | 4.8 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.9 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.5 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3 in | 7 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Dec | 4 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 54.3 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.
St. Charles Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
4.9-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Mar 22 | Dec 18 | 271 days |
| Cautious | Mar 9 | Dec 9 | 275 days |
| Average year | Feb 20 | Dec 1 | 284 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 6 | Nov 21 | 288 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 19 | Nov 12 | 297 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±62 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 longer here (about 1.8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
St. Charles Parish presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in St. Charles 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 St. Charles Parish's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
St. Charles 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 St. Charles Parish
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in St. Charles Parish
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to St. Charles 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 St. Charles Parish LA" or "garden center St. Charles 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 St. Charles Parish LA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "St. Charles 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
13.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
10.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
8.2 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: Your shorter days favor short-day onion varieties like Vidalia, Texas 1015, and Red Creole. Plant in fall for best results.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10.3 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.7 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 hr | 4.8 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
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
12 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 51°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 55°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 59°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 68°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 78°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 86°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 95°F | 91°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 95°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 91°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 78°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 69°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 56°F | 64°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 St. Charles 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 | Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Whiteflies | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Spider mites | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Fire ants | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Leaf miners | Low | Mar, Apr, May, Jun |
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 St. Charles 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 | Feb 28 | Sep 22 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 1 | Oct 6 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 1 | Sep 22 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 24 | Sep 22 | ✓ 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 16 | Nov 17 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (4 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Oct 7 | Feb 6 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 21 | Jan 30 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 7 | Jan 30 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 11 | Jan 30 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
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: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
2.8/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (172 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
27,063 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
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 54.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,063 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 St. Charles Parish
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 4.9–6.3 · Somewhat Poorly Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (54.3 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
285-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 St. Charles Parish
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for St. Charles Parish.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 6 | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 27 – May 29 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 30 | — | Mar 27 – Apr 24 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Jun 12 – Aug 7 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 6 | Jul 10 – Aug 21 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 30 | — | Apr 3 – May 8 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 5 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 27 | — | May 1 – Jun 26 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 27 | — | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 6 – Mar 27 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 30 | — | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 30 | — | Mar 27 – Apr 24 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 27 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Oct 30 – Dec 25 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 27 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 6 | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 8 – Aug 14 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 27 | — | May 29 – Jul 3 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Aug 7 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | May 15 – Jun 26 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 27 – Jun 5 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 27 | — | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Jun 12 – Aug 14 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Aug 14 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jun 26 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 – Mar 27 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 27 – Apr 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 27 – May 29 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – May 22 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 3 – May 1 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 30 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jul 17 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 30 | — | Feb 27 – Mar 20 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 30 | — | Apr 24 – May 29 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 30 | — | May 15 – Jun 26 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | May 1 – Jun 26 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jun 5 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 9 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 27 | — | May 22 – Jul 17 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 27 – May 29 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 22 – Jul 17 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 6 | Jun 26 – Aug 21 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jun 26 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 27 | — | May 1 – Jun 12 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Oct 30 – Dec 25 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 30 | — | Mar 13 – Apr 17 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 20 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jun 26 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 27 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | May 29 – Jul 17 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Aug 28 – Dec 25 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 9 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 23 | Feb 20 | Feb 27 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in St. Charles Parish
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for St. Charles Parish.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Sep 18 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 6 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 6 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 6 | May 29 – Jul 10 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 6 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 6 | Jun 5 – Jan 1 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in St. Charles Parish
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for St. Charles Parish.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | May 15 – Jul 31 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 9 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 27 | May 29 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – May 29 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Apr 17 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Mar 27 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Mar 27 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | May 29 – Jul 31 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Mar 27 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Feb 27 | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 9 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Apr 17 – Jun 26 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 27 | May 29 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 27 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Feb 27 | May 29 – Oct 30 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jun 19 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 9 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 9 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | May 15 – Aug 14 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 27 | May 22 – Oct 9 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 27 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 23 | Jan 30 | Feb 13 | Mar 27 – May 29 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 9 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 27 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 9 | Feb 27 | Feb 27 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jul 10 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 27 | Jul 3 – Oct 9 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Feb 27 | May 29 – Aug 14 | 90–120 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in St. Charles Parish
1 flowers that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for St. Charles Parish.
Show all 1 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marigolds | Mar 27 | Jan 30 | Jan 30 | Mar 27 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for St. Charles Parish
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in St. Charles Parish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is St. Charles Parish, LA?
St. Charles Parish is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. 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 St. Charles Parish, LA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in St. Charles Parish falls around February 20. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 19 and March 22 — a 62-day window of variability. Use March 22 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in St. Charles Parish, LA?
The median first fall frost in St. Charles Parish arrives around December 1. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 12; in mild years as late as December 18. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in St. Charles Parish?
St. Charles Parish has a frost-free growing season of approximately 285 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 1.78 days per decade.
What is the soil like in St. Charles Parish for gardening?
St. Charles Parish has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 4.9–6.3 and Somewhat Poorly 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 St. Charles Parish?
St. Charles Parish has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Rice, Sugarcane, Cotton, Corn. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is St. Charles Parish a good location for home gardening?
St. Charles Parish scores 53/100 (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 St. Charles Parish Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for St. Charles Parish (Zone 9b). 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