When to Plant in Metairie, LA

Metairie, Louisiana, experiences its last spring frost on February 12 and the first fall frost on December 9, offering an impressive 302 frost-free days each year. This extended growing season is ideal for gardeners looking to cultivate a variety of plants, from vibrant flowers to a lush vegetable garden that flourishes with the warm, humid conditions characteristic of this area.

The humid subtropical climate, featuring long, humid summers, creates a fertile environment for certain crops. Vegetables such as tomatoes, okra, and peppers thrive in this climate, producing rich yields. However, crops like broccoli and carrots can struggle as they prefer cooler temperatures and may not perform well during hot, humid summers.

What to plant now in Metairie

Spring: Now is the perfect time to plant heat-loving crops like tomatoes and peppers. Start seeds indoors in late March and transplant them outside after the last frost date, February 12, for a bountiful harvest later in the season.
Summer: As the heat intensifies, consider planting warm-season vegetables such as beans and cucumbers. In June, direct sow these seeds to take advantage of the consistent warmth and ensure a healthy crop through the season.
Fall: This is an ideal time to plant cool-season crops like spinach and kale. Aim to sow seeds in early September, allowing them enough time to mature before the first frost sets in on December 9.
Winter: Although winter is here, it's time to prepare for spring planting. During this period, you can plan your garden layout and start seedlings indoors, especially for crops like tomatoes, which need to be ready for transplanting after the last frost on February 12.

In Metairie (300 frost-free days, a very long season), 30 of 56 planner crops fit outright, 25 get two plantings, 1 crop is perennial.

Month by month in Metairie

Month	What to do
January	In January, gardening slows down, but it's a good time to plan your spring garden. Gather seeds and supplies, and consider starting early seedlings indoors for plants like tomatoes and peppers to get a head start.
February	As February approaches, prepare for the last frost by assessing your garden beds. By February 12, the danger of frost will typically have passed, making it an ideal time to start planting cool-weather crops.
March	March is the beginning of the growing season. It's time to plant warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers indoors. Transplant these seedlings outdoors after the last frost date on February 12 for best results.
April	In April, the weather warms consistently. Direct-sow beans and squash outside this month. Ensure your soil is well-prepared and consider mulching to retain moisture as summer approaches.
May	May is the peak of planting season. Finish your warm-weather crop planting by mid-month, including cucumbers and corn. Regular watering will be essential as temperatures begin to rise.
June	June brings the heat, making it essential to maintain soil moisture. This is a good time to plant heat-loving crops like okra. Pay attention to your watering schedule as plants become established.
July	In July, continue to monitor your crops for pests and disease. It's also time to harvest early varieties of vegetables, ensuring your garden remains productive during the peak summer heat.
August	August is hot and humid, but there’s still time to sow fall crops like turnips and beets in late August. These crops perform well in the cooler fall months ahead.
September	As September arrives, the chance of fall planting should be seized. Begin planting cool-season vegetables like spinach and lettuce, giving them plenty of time to mature before the first frost on December 9.
October	In October, continue to tend to your fall crops. This month is crucial for harvesting remaining summer produce and preparing your garden for the winter months ahead.
November	November signals a transition in your garden as the fall crops mature. Prepare your garden for the winter by planting cover crops that can enrich the soil during the colder months.
December	December can be quieter in the garden. Post the first frost on December 9, focus on winter maintenance tasks like mulching to protect perennials and organizing your tools for spring.

Frost dates for Metairie ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
70003	February 12	December 9	9b

FAQ

When is the last frost in Metairie?

The last frost in Metairie typically occurs on February 12, providing a clear timeline for when to start your spring gardening activities.

What vegetables grow best in Metairie?

Tomatoes, peppers, and okra thrive in Metairie's humid subtropical climate, while broccoli and carrots tend to struggle due to the heat.

When should I plant tomatoes in Metairie?

Start your tomato seeds indoors in late March and transplant them outside after the last frost on February 12 for the best harvest.

Can I garden year-round in Metairie?

Yes, the long frost-free season allows for year-round gardening, with careful planning for the heat of summer and the cooler fall months.

How does Plan My Garden help Metairie gardeners?

Plan My Garden provides tailored planting calendars, expert advice, and resourceful tips to help gardeners maximize their space and growing potential in Metairie.