St. James Parish, LA — Planting Guide
May in St. James Parish, Louisiana — your action list
Welcome to May in Zone 9a. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
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It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
June prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
St. James Parish is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 13 and the first fall frost is December 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 297 days.
At an elevation of 471 ft, St. James Parish receives approximately 52 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 97°F with winter lows around 45°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 50 days year to year — ranging from January 19 in warm years to March 9 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 4.9 days per decade. St. James Parish scores 51/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 13
🍂 First Frost
December 6
📅 Growing Season
297 days
⛰️ Elevation
471 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
52 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 | 4.2 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 4.9 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 7 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.4 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Oct | 2.9 in | 6 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.2 in | 7 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Dec | 3.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 52 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. James Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
5-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Mar 9 | Dec 20 | 286 days |
| Cautious | Mar 1 | Dec 11 | 285 days |
| Average year | Feb 13 | Dec 6 | 296 days |
| Optimistic | Jan 25 | Nov 27 | 306 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 19 | Nov 13 | 298 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±50 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 4.9 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
St. James Parish presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in St. James 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. James Parish's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
St. James 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. James Parish
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in St. James Parish
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to St. James 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. James Parish LA" or "garden center St. James 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. James Parish LA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "St. James 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
8.3 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 | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 11 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.7 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| June | 13.9 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| July | 13.8 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.5 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 10.1 hr | 4.7 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 | 52°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 54°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 60°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 66°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 78°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 88°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 95°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 97°F | 92°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 90°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 78°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 69°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 56°F | 63°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. James 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. James 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 16 | Oct 11 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 22 | Oct 4 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 20 | Oct 4 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 19 | Sep 27 | ✓ 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 9 | Nov 15 | — | 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 2 | Jan 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 27 | Jan 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 23 | Jan 30 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 10 | Jan 23 | ✓ 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: 9 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 9 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
Low
Relatively flat terrain (211 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
25,916 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
Mar, Jun, 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 52.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 25,916 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. James Parish
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 5–6.2 · Moderately Well 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. (52 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
297-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. James Parish
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for St. James Parish.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Feb 27 | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 23 | — | Mar 20 – Apr 17 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Jun 5 – Jul 31 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 20 | — | May 22 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 17 – May 29 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Jun 26 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Feb 27 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 23 | — | Mar 27 – May 1 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | May 29 – Jul 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 17 – May 29 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – May 29 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 17 – May 29 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 27 – Mar 20 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 23 | — | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 23 | — | Mar 20 – Apr 17 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 15 – Jun 19 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 20 | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Oct 23 – Dec 18 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Feb 27 | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 1 – Aug 7 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Jun 5 – Jul 10 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 3 – May 1 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 20 | — | May 22 – Jun 26 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 3 – May 8 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 20 – Apr 24 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | May 15 – Jul 31 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | May 8 – Jun 19 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 20 – May 29 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Jun 5 – Aug 7 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Aug 7 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 1 – Jun 19 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 – Mar 20 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Apr 3 – May 29 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 20 – Apr 17 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – May 15 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – May 15 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 27 – Apr 24 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 23 | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 1 – Jul 10 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 17 – May 22 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 23 | — | Feb 20 – Mar 13 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | May 1 – Jun 12 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 23 | — | Apr 17 – May 22 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 23 | — | May 8 – Jun 19 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 24 – Jun 19 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – May 8 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – May 29 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | May 15 – Jul 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 20 | — | May 15 – Jul 10 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 15 – Jul 10 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Feb 27 | Jun 19 – Aug 14 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 1 – Jun 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 24 – Jun 5 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 20 – Apr 24 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Oct 23 – Dec 18 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 23 | — | Mar 6 – Apr 10 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 13 | Mar 27 – May 1 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 1 – Jun 19 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 20 | — | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | May 22 – Jul 10 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Aug 21 – Dec 18 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 2 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – May 29 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 16 | Feb 13 | Feb 20 | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in St. James Parish
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for St. James Parish.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Feb 27 | May 29 – Sep 11 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jun 12 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Feb 27 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Feb 27 | May 22 – Jul 3 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Feb 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Feb 27 | May 29 – Dec 25 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in St. James Parish
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for St. James Parish.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | May 8 – Jul 24 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 20 | May 22 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Apr 3 – May 22 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 26 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | May 22 – Jul 24 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Feb 20 | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | Apr 10 – Jun 5 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 19 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 20 | May 22 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 20 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 20 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Feb 20 | May 22 – Oct 23 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jun 12 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 20 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | May 8 – Aug 7 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Apr 10 – Jun 12 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 20 | May 15 – Oct 2 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 20 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 20 | May 8 – Jul 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 12 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 16 | Jan 23 | Feb 6 | Mar 20 – May 22 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 20 | Apr 24 – Jul 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 2 | Feb 20 | Feb 20 | Apr 17 – Jun 19 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 20 | May 1 – Jul 3 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 20 | Jun 26 – Oct 2 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Feb 20 | May 22 – Aug 7 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for St. James Parish
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in St. James Parish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is St. James Parish, LA?
St. James Parish is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in St. James Parish, LA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in St. James Parish falls around February 13. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 19 and March 9 — a 50-day window of variability. Use March 9 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in St. James Parish, LA?
The median first fall frost in St. James Parish arrives around December 6. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 13; in mild years as late as December 20. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in St. James Parish?
St. James Parish has a frost-free growing season of approximately 297 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 4.9 days per decade.
What is the soil like in St. James Parish for gardening?
St. James Parish has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 5–6.2 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in St. James Parish?
St. James 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 St. James Parish a good location for home gardening?
St. James Parish scores 51/100 (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. James Parish Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for St. James Parish (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log