Lake Charles, LA Planting Calendar (What to Plant by Month)

Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Lake charles, LA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 9a.

Lake charles, LA Frost Dates & Growing Season

Last Spring Frost Date for Lake charles, LA

The average last frost date in spring for Lake charles is February 18th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until March 4th before moving plants outdoors. Waiting these extra few weeks significantly reduces the risk of a late freeze damaging young transplants.

First Fall Frost Date for Lake charles, LA

The average first frost date in fall for Lake charles is November 25th. This date marks the approximate end of the growing season for tender plants. Gardeners should plan to harvest frost-sensitive vegetables or provide heavy protection (such as row covers) before this date to avoid crop loss.

Growing Season Length in Lake charles, LA

Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Lake charles is approximately 280 days. This duration determines which vegetable varieties have enough time to reach maturity before the winter cold sets in. Short-season varieties are recommended for crops that require a longer warm period.

Please note: These dates are climatological averages. Actual weather conditions vary by year. Always check the local 10-day forecast before planting.

Lake charles, LA Planting Calendar

This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.

Legend: I = Start seed indoors S = Direct sow T = Transplant H = Harvest
Generating calendar...

Lake charles, LA Monthly Planting Recommendations

January

In January, recommended activities include direct sowing Spinach (from January 7th to January 21st), starting Marigold seeds indoors (from January 7th to January 21st), and direct sowing Watercress (from January 21st to February 4th).

February

In February, recommended activities include direct sowing Gladiolus (from February 18th to March 4th), direct sowing Pumpkin (from February 25th to March 11th), and direct sowing Sunflower (from February 25th to March 11th).

March

In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Corn (from March 4th to March 11th), direct sowing Lima Bean (from March 4th to March 18th), and direct sowing Melon (from March 4th to March 18th).

December

In December, recommended activities include starting Coneflower seeds indoors (from December 24th to January 7th), starting Oregano seeds indoors (from December 24th to January 7th), and starting Black Eyed Susan seeds indoors (from December 24th to January 7th).