Louisiana Planting Guide & Growing Season
Louisiana is in USDA hardiness zone 8a-9b with a growing season of 260 days. The average last spring frost is Mar 1 and the average first fall frost is Nov 15. Climate data based on Baton Rouge.
Growing Conditions in Louisiana
How Louisiana Compares
Compare Louisiana's growing conditions with states that have similar climates.
| State | USDA Zone | Last Frost | First Frost | Season (days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana (LA) | 8a-9b | Mar 1 | Nov 15 | 260 |
| Alabama (AL) | 7a-8b | Mar 15 | Nov 5 | 235 |
| Alaska (AK) | 1a-7b | May 30 | Sep 5 | 100 |
| Arizona (AZ) | 4b-10b | Mar 1 | Nov 15 | 260 |
| Arkansas (AR) | 6b-8a | Apr 1 | Oct 25 | 210 |
| California (CA) | 4b-11a | Feb 15 | Nov 30 | 290 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Gardening in Louisiana
When should I start seeds indoors in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the average last frost date is Mar 1. Start most seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before this date. The USDA hardiness zone for Louisiana is 8a-9b, with a growing season of approximately 260 days.
What USDA hardiness zone is Louisiana?
Louisiana falls in USDA hardiness zones 8a-9b. This affects which perennial plants will survive winter and influences optimal planting times.
When is the first frost in Louisiana?
The average first frost date in Louisiana is Nov 15. Plan to harvest cold-sensitive crops before this date or protect them with row covers.
How long is the growing season in Louisiana?
Louisiana has an average growing season of 260 days, from the last frost (Mar 1) to first frost (Nov 15). This long season supports warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and melons.
Plan Your Garden
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