Planting Dates for Louisiana
Louisiana's hot, humid climate provides one of the longest growing seasons in the country. The rich alluvial soils of the Mississippi Delta are among the most fertile in North America.
USDA Zones 8a-9b • 240-310 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Louisiana
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Louisiana cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Orleans | Feb 15 | Dec 2 | 290 | 9b |
| Baton Rouge | Feb 26 | Nov 22 | 269 | 9a |
| Shreveport | Mar 12 | Nov 12 | 245 | 8a |
Gardening Tips for Louisiana
- ✓Plant spring gardens in February — warm crops can go out by mid-March.
- ✓Summer heat above 95°F stalls many crops — plan for a mid-summer break.
- ✓Fall gardens are often more productive than spring in Louisiana.
- ✓Raised beds help manage the heavy clay soils common in many areas.
What to Plant in Louisiana
Cold-Hardy Crops (plant early)
These crops tolerate frost and can be planted 2-6 weeks before your last frost date.
30-60 days from sowing
55-70 days from sowing
60-80 days from sowing
50-70 days from sowing
55-80 days from transplant
35-50 days from sowing
20-35 days from sowing
July-August the following year
90-120 days from transplant
70-120 days from planting
50-70 days from sowing
50-60 days from sowing
Warm-Season Crops (plant after last frost)
Start these indoors and transplant after all frost danger has passed.
60-85 days from transplant
60-90 days from transplant
50-65 days from sowing
50-65 days from sowing
45-60 days from sowing
60-100 days from sowing
30-60 days from sowing
Get Exact Planting Dates for Louisiana
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in Louisiana?
Last frost dates in Louisiana vary by city: New Orleans (Feb 15), Baton Rouge (Feb 26), Shreveport (Mar 12).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Louisiana?
Louisiana spans USDA hardiness zones 8a-9b. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Louisiana?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Louisiana. In warmer zones, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers do well with proper timing. Use our free calculator for exact planting dates.
How long is the growing season in Louisiana?
240-310 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
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Calculate exact planting dates based on your location and frost dates.