What to Plant in Louisiana by Month
Louisiana’s warm climate and long growing season provide ample opportunities for gardeners to cultivate a wide variety of plants. With its rich soil and abundant rainfall, the state offers an ideal environment for both ornamental and edible plants. To make the most of your garden year-round, here’s a guide on what to plant in Louisiana by month.
January
While January is typically a slower month for gardening in Louisiana, there are still a few plants you can get started with. Plant cool-season vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, carrots, and lettuce. It’s also a good time to plant fruit trees such as apples, peaches, and pears.
February
As the weather starts to warm up, February is a great time to plant early spring vegetables like radishes, spinach, and Swiss chard. You can also start sowing seeds for warm-season flowers such as marigolds and zinnias.
March
March is an exciting month for Louisiana gardeners, as it marks the beginning of the busy planting season. You can start planting warm-season vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. It’s also a good time to plant herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano. Don’t forget to sow seeds for sunflowers and cosmos to add some color to your garden.
April
April is a prime planting month in Louisiana. You can continue planting warm-season vegetables such as okra, cucumbers, and squash. It’s also a good time to plant flowering plants like petunias, impatiens, and begonias. Consider adding some herbs like thyme and rosemary to your garden as well.
May
In May, the temperatures start to rise, so it’s important to choose heat-tolerant plants. Plant heat-loving vegetables like sweet potatoes, beans, and melons. You can also add some tropical flowering plants like hibiscus and canna lilies to your garden for a vibrant touch.
June
June is the time to focus on maintaining your garden and ensuring proper watering and fertilization. However, you can still plant heat-tolerant vegetables like okra and Southern peas. Take advantage of the warm weather by planting heat-loving flowers such as sunflowers and morning glories.
July
July is the hottest month in Louisiana, so it’s crucial to provide your plants with enough water and shade. While it’s not the best time for planting, you can still sow seeds for fall crops like beans, beets, and carrots. Consider adding some heat-tolerant flowers like marigolds and vinca to your garden.
August
August is a transitional month in Louisiana, as you can start planning for your fall garden. Sow seeds for cool-season vegetables like broccoli, kale, and lettuce. It’s also a good time to plant fall-blooming flowers such as asters and mums.
September
September is an excellent month for gardening in Louisiana, as the weather starts to cool down. Plant cool-season vegetables like cauliflower, collard greens, and radishes. You can also start planting cool-season flowers like pansies and snapdragons.
October
October is an ideal month for planting trees and shrubs in Louisiana. Consider adding native trees like bald cypress and Southern magnolia to your landscape. It’s also a good time to sow seeds for cool-season herbs like cilantro and dill.
November
In November, focus on preparing your garden for winter. Clear out any remaining plants and add compost to the soil. You can also plant cool-season vegetables like onions, garlic, and turnips. Don’t forget to plant some cool-season flowers like violas and ornamental kale to keep your garden colorful during the winter months.
December
December is a quieter month for gardening in Louisiana. However, you can still plant cool-season vegetables like Brussels sprouts and Swiss chard. It’s also an excellent time to focus on garden maintenance tasks like pruning and mulching.
FAQs about Gardening in Louisiana
Q: What are the best plants for Louisiana’s hot and humid climate?
A: Some of the best plants for Louisiana’s climate include okra, Southern peas, sweet potatoes, and heat-tolerant flowers like marigolds and vinca.
Q: How often should I water my plants in Louisiana?
A: It depends on various factors such as the type of plant, weather conditions, and soil moisture. Generally, most plants in Louisiana benefit from deep watering once or twice a week.
Q: How can I protect my plants from Louisiana’s intense summer heat?
A: To protect your plants from the summer heat, provide them with shade using shade cloth or by planting them near taller plants or structures. Mulching around the base of the plants can also help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Q: Are there any plants that I should avoid planting in Louisiana?
A: Some plants that may not thrive in Louisiana’s climate include plants that prefer a cooler climate or have a long growing season, such as certain varieties of apples and cherries.
Q: Is it possible to have a year-round garden in Louisiana?
A: Yes, Louisiana’s long growing season allows for a year-round garden. By planting a variety of cool-season and warm-season vegetables, along with appropriate flowers and herbs, you can enjoy fresh produce and a colorful garden throughout the year.
In conclusion, Louisiana’s warm and humid climate provides an ideal environment for a diverse range of plants. By following this guide on what to plant in Louisiana by month, you can make the most of your garden and enjoy a year-round burst of colors and flavors. Happy gardening!