St. Landry Parish, LA — Planting Guide
May in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana — your action list
May rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana.
-
Pick basil, carrots, and cucumber
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
June prep starts now
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
St. Landry Parish is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 19 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 286 days.
At an elevation of 370 ft, St. Landry Parish receives approximately 59.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 97°F with winter lows around 38°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 47 days year to year — ranging from January 24 in warm years to March 11 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 1.22 days per decade. St. Landry Parish scores 58/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 19
🍂 First Frost
December 1
📅 Growing Season
286 days
⛰️ Elevation
370 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
59.8 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 | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.7 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.1 in | 7 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| May | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 7 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 6.4 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.1 in | 7 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Oct | 4.3 in | 6 days | — | Low |
| Nov | 4 in | 7 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Dec | 5.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 59.9 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. Landry Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
4.8-6
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 11 | Dec 15 | 279 days |
| Cautious | Mar 4 | Dec 6 | 277 days |
| Average year | Feb 19 | Dec 1 | 285 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 7 | Nov 20 | 286 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 24 | Nov 11 | 291 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±47 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 1.2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
St. Landry Parish presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in St. Landry 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. Landry Parish's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
St. Landry 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. Landry Parish
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in St. Landry Parish
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to St. Landry 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. Landry Parish LA" or "garden center St. Landry 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. Landry Parish LA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "St. Landry 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 | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.5 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 10 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 Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
10 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 44°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 46°F | 53°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 62°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 72°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 81°F | 77°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 92°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 93°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 85°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 76°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 60°F | 66°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 53°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in St. Landry 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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Fire ants | Low | 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 St. Landry 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 26 | Sep 29 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Feb 25 | Sep 29 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Feb 25 | Oct 6 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 25 | Oct 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 9 | Nov 10 | — | 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 | Oct 5 | Feb 5 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 26 | Feb 5 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 10 | Jan 29 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 11 | Jan 29 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 23 | Feb 5 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Sep 3 | Jan 29 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Sep 6 | Feb 5 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 8 mph Summer: 6 mph
Fall: 8 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Low wind — no windbreak needed for most crops.
Windbreak Benefit
3.1/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (286 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
29,854 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Mar, Jul, Aug, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Apr, Sep, 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 59.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 29,854 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. Landry Parish
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 4.8–6 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (59.8 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
286-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. Landry Parish
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for St. Landry Parish.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Feb 26 | — | May 28 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Jan 29 | — | Apr 2 – May 7 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Jun 4 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 5 – Mar 26 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Jan 29 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jan 29 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Feb 26 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Oct 29 – Dec 24 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 5 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 7 – Aug 13 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Feb 26 | — | May 28 – Jul 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 26 – Apr 30 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | May 21 – Aug 6 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 26 – Jun 4 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Aug 13 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 – Mar 26 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Apr 9 – Jun 4 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 26 – Apr 23 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – Apr 30 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jan 29 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jul 16 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Jan 29 | — | Feb 26 – Mar 19 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jan 29 | — | Apr 23 – May 28 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jan 29 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 8 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Feb 26 | — | May 21 – Jul 16 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 21 – Jul 16 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 – Jun 11 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Mar 26 – Apr 30 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Oct 29 – Dec 24 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Jan 29 | — | Mar 12 – Apr 16 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 19 | Apr 2 – May 7 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jun 25 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Feb 26 | — | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Jul 16 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Aug 27 – Dec 24 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 8 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 4 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 22 | Feb 19 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in St. Landry Parish
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for St. Landry Parish.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Sep 17 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Dec 31 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in St. Landry Parish
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for St. Landry Parish.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | May 14 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 8 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Feb 26 | May 28 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Apr 9 – May 28 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Feb 26 | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 8 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | Apr 16 – Jun 11 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Feb 26 | May 28 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Feb 26 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Feb 26 | May 28 – Oct 29 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 8 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 8 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | May 14 – Aug 13 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Apr 16 – Jun 18 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Feb 26 | May 21 – Oct 8 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Feb 26 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 22 | Jan 29 | Feb 12 | Mar 26 – May 28 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 8 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 8 | Feb 26 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 25 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Feb 26 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Feb 26 | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Feb 26 | May 28 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in St. Landry Parish
1 flowers that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for St. Landry Parish.
Show all 1 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marigolds | Mar 26 | Feb 5 | Feb 5 | Apr 2 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for St. Landry Parish
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in St. Landry Parish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is St. Landry Parish, LA?
St. Landry 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. Landry Parish, LA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in St. Landry Parish falls around February 19. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 24 and March 11 — a 47-day window of variability. Use March 11 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in St. Landry Parish, LA?
The median first fall frost in St. Landry Parish arrives around December 1. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 11; in mild years as late as December 15. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in St. Landry Parish?
St. Landry Parish has a frost-free growing season of approximately 286 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 1.22 days per decade.
What is the soil like in St. Landry Parish for gardening?
St. Landry Parish has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 4.8–6 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in St. Landry Parish?
St. Landry Parish has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Sugarcane, Rice. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is St. Landry Parish a good location for home gardening?
St. Landry Parish scores 58/100 (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. Landry Parish Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for St. Landry 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