Vernon Parish, LA — Planting Guide
Your May game plan for Vernon Parish, Louisiana
Your garden in Vernon Parish, Louisiana is working on a schedule, even when you're not. Here's where you should be this May.
-
Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
This is the payoff month. Bring a basket, bring a friend, and get into the beds.
A few tasks this May that'll pay off in June
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Vernon Parish is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 5 and the first fall frost is November 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 256 days.
At an elevation of 481 ft, Vernon Parish receives approximately 54.2 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 97°F with winter lows around 39°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 57 days year to year — ranging from February 8 in warm years to April 6 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 2 days per decade. Vernon Parish scores 60/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
March 5
🍂 First Frost
November 16
📅 Growing Season
256 days
⛰️ Elevation
481 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
54.2 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 5.4 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 3.4 in | 7 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.7 in | 10 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.8 in | 12 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 5.1 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 4.1 in | 8 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Nov | 4.3 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Dec | 4.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 54.2 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.
Vernon Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.2
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 6 | Dec 14 | 252 days |
| Cautious | Mar 14 | Nov 28 | 259 days |
| Average year | Mar 5 | Nov 16 | 256 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 22 | Nov 11 | 262 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Feb 8 | Oct 28 | 262 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±57 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 2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Vernon Parish offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Vernon 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 Vernon Parish's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Vernon 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 Vernon Parish
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Vernon Parish
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Vernon 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 Vernon Parish LA" or "garden center Vernon 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 Vernon Parish LA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Vernon 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
8.7 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 | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.9 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 7.7 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.6 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.8 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.4 hr | 5.7 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 | 54°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Feb | 49°F | 52°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 54°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 61°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 72°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 83°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 92°F | 86°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 92°F | 87°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 87°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 78°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 63°F | 67°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 52°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 Vernon 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 | 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 Vernon 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 11 | Sep 7 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 10 | Sep 7 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 11 | Sep 14 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 6 | Sep 7 | ✓ 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 26 | Oct 19 | — | 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 12 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Sep 16 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 24 | Feb 12 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 9 | Feb 19 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Oct 6 | Feb 19 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 11 | Feb 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 21 | Feb 12 | — | 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: 9 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
3.3/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (487 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
27,013 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, May, Oct
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 54.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 27,013 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 Vernon Parish
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.1–7.2 · Excessively Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 1.5/10
Vernon Parish has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
256-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.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Vernon Parish
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Vernon Parish.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 – May 7 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 16 – May 21 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 18 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jul 9 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Mar 19 – Apr 9 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 12 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 12 | — | Apr 9 – May 7 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 12 | — | May 28 – Jul 9 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Nov 12 – Jan 7 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Aug 27 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 21 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 23 – May 28 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Aug 20 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 28 – Jul 9 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 18 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 – Apr 9 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 18 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – May 7 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 4 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 14 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 12 | — | May 28 – Jul 9 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 30 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 7 – Jun 11 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 12 | — | Mar 12 – Apr 2 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 21 – Jul 2 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 12 | — | May 7 – Jun 11 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 12 | — | May 28 – Jul 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | May 14 – Jul 9 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jun 18 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Jun 4 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 12 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 19 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 12 | — | May 14 – Jun 25 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 9 – May 14 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Nov 12 – Jan 7 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 12 | — | Mar 26 – Apr 30 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Mar 5 | Apr 16 – May 21 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 9 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 12 | — | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Sep 10 – Jan 7 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 22 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jun 18 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Feb 5 | Mar 5 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Vernon Parish
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Vernon Parish.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Oct 1 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 19 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 19 | Jun 18 – Jan 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Vernon Parish
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9a with planting dates for Vernon Parish.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | May 28 – Aug 13 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 23 – Jun 11 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Jun 11 – Aug 13 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | Apr 30 – Jun 25 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 9 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 12 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Nov 12 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 2 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 28 – Aug 27 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 30 – Jul 2 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 4 – Oct 22 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 12 | May 28 – Jul 23 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Feb 5 | Feb 12 | Feb 26 | Apr 9 – Jun 11 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 12 | May 14 – Jul 23 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 22 | Mar 12 | Mar 12 | May 7 – Jul 9 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 12 | May 21 – Jul 23 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 12 | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 12 | Jun 11 – Aug 27 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Vernon Parish
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Vernon Parish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Vernon Parish, LA?
Vernon 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 Vernon Parish, LA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Vernon Parish falls around March 5. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between February 8 and April 6 — a 57-day window of variability. Use April 6 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Vernon Parish, LA?
The median first fall frost in Vernon Parish arrives around November 16. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 28; in mild years as late as December 14. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Vernon Parish?
Vernon Parish has a frost-free growing season of approximately 256 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 2 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Vernon Parish for gardening?
Vernon Parish has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.1–7.2 and Excessively Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Vernon Parish?
Vernon Parish has commercial agriculture that includes Soybeans, Rice, Sugarcane, Corn, Cattle. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Vernon Parish a good location for home gardening?
Vernon Parish scores 60/100 (Good) 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 Vernon Parish Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Vernon 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