(KPEL News) - I remember as I was growing up in South Louisiana, my parents, grandparents, even my great-grandparents had a vegetable garden. Every spring and summer we would feast on fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, banana peppers, okra and more. Somehow, their produce always seemed bigger and tastier than the store-bought stuff.

Folks here always share what they can’t eat. In the spring, I can always expect my dad to show up on Saturday mornings with a grocery bag full of two-foot-long cucumbers or more tomatoes and peppers than I can eat!


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All of this got me thinking, why don’t I plant my own garden, and how do I do it? We have a long growing season and knowing when to start planting is critical if you want to have a successful harvest. We’ve consulted the LSU AgCenter’s Louisiana Vegetable Planting Guide to find the best planting times, crop recommendations, and tips for a thriving spring garden.

According to the guide, “Generally, with spring vegetables, the first planting should be made after the danger of frost is over (March 15 for south Louisiana/April 1 for central/north Louisiana).”

Understanding the Growing Season in Southwest Louisiana

Jamie Angelle
Jamie Angelle
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  • USDA Hardiness Zone:
    • Southwest Louisiana falls within Zone 9a, meaning mild winters and hot, humid summers.
  • Last Frost Date:
    • Typically around late January to early February, though occasional cold snaps can extend into mid-February.
  • Soil Preparation Timeline:
    • Best to start prepping soil in late winter (January–February) by adding compost and organic matter.

Best Vegetables to Plant in Louisiana and When

Early Spring (Late January – February)

  • Cool-season crops that can tolerate light frost:
    • Leafy greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, Swiss chard
    • Root vegetables: Carrots, beets, radishes, turnips
    • Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage
    • Legumes: Peas

Mid-Spring (March – Early April)

  • Warm-season crops that prefer mild temperatures:
    • Tomatoes & Peppers: Start indoors in February and transplant in March.
    • Herbs: Basil, cilantro, parsley, dill
    • Beans: Snap beans, bush beans

Late Spring (Mid-April – May)

  • Heat-tolerant summer crops:
    • Squash & Zucchini
    • Cucumbers
    • Okra
    • Watermelon & Cantaloupe
    • Sweet Potatoes (slips should be planted by mid-May)

Additional Gardening Tips for Louisiana

  • Managing Heat & Humidity
    • Mulch to retain moisture and control weeds.
    • Water deeply in the early morning to prevent fungal issues.
  • Soil Preparation & Enrichment
    • Conduct a soil test (available through LSU AgCenter).
    • Add organic matter like compost or manure to enhance drainage and fertility.
  • Pest & Disease Management
    • Common pests: Aphids, caterpillars, stink bugs. Use organic solutions like neem oil or insecticidal soap.
    • Rotate crops each season to minimize soil-borne diseases.

Just remember, leafy greens, root veggies, and things like peas can tolerate light frost so plant those early. Tomatoes, herbs, beans, and peppers should be planted in March or April. Plant the cucumbers, okra, squash, and watermelons towards late spring in mid-April.

Though you may not be able to plant some things now, you can still prepare. Get the ground ready, get the bedding materials you need, and make sure that you are successful this planting season!

For more information on planting and other home and garden activities, visit the LSU AgCenter at www.lsuagcenter.com.

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Gallery Credit: Joe Cunningham

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