Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Washington, LA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 9a.
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Washington, LA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Washington, LA
The average last frost date in spring for Washington is March 1st. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until March 15th 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 Washington, LA
The average first frost date in fall for Washington is November 15th. 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 Washington, LA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Washington is approximately 259 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.
Washington, LA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Washington, LA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Kale seeds indoors (from January 18th to February 1st), starting Black Eyed Susan seeds indoors (from January 4th to January 18th), and starting Thyme seeds indoors (from January 4th to January 18th).
February
In February, recommended activities include direct sowing Lettuce (from February 1st to February 15th), direct sowing Quinoa (from February 15th to March 1st), and starting Pumpkin seeds indoors (from February 8th to February 15th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Runner Bean (from March 8th to March 22nd), direct sowing Zinnia (from March 8th to March 22nd), and direct sowing Melon (from March 15th to March 29th).
December
In December, recommended activities include starting Rosemary seeds indoors (from December 21st to January 4th), starting Celery seeds indoors (from December 21st to January 4th), and starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from December 21st to January 4th).