February marks the transition from the dormant winter period to the early spring planting season for Louisiana gardeners. This month is important for initiating crops that require a long growing period before the summer heat arrives. Early planting determines the success of both the cool-season harvest and the eventual warm-season yields. Gardeners use this window to prepare the soil and start seeds indoors, setting the groundwork for robust production.
Understanding Louisiana’s February Climate Zones
Louisiana’s geography creates distinct climate zones that influence February planting decisions. The northern part of the state (zones 8a and 8b) experiences cooler winters and a later last frost date. Gardeners in this region typically see their last spring frost in early to mid-March.
Conversely, the central and southern areas (zones 9a and 9b) maintain a milder, subtropical climate. The last frost date often occurs in late February or early March, with immediate coastal areas sometimes being frost-free by the end of January. Warmer zones have an extended planting window and can move hardy crops outdoors earlier. This geographic difference is important for managing the risk of a sudden cold snap, which can damage tender new plantings statewide.
Cool-Season Crops for Direct Outdoor Sowing
February is the optimal time to sow seeds of hardy cool-season vegetables directly into the garden soil. Root vegetables like carrots, beets, and radishes perform best when direct-seeded, as they do not tolerate root disturbance. Radish matures quickly, and carrots benefit from loose, well-drained, sandy soil for proper root development.
Hardy leafy greens thrive in the mild temperatures of late winter and early spring. Gardeners can directly sow seeds for:
- Collard greens
- Spinach
- Kale
- Mustard greens
These greens flourish in fertile, compost-rich soil and prefer consistent moisture to prevent bolting once temperatures begin to rise. Planting now ensures a harvest before the intense summer heat causes the plants to become bitter.
While many crops are direct-seeded, brassicas such as cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower are often planted as small transplants in February for earlier head formation. Preparing the soil with compost is beneficial for these heavy feeders. Even in the warmer southern zones, gardeners should keep row covers or frost cloth nearby to protect young plants during unexpected temperature drops below freezing. Irish potatoes, planted from seed pieces, can also be set out this month across most of the state.
Getting a Head Start: Seeds to Start Indoors
The long growing season in Louisiana necessitates starting warm-weather staples indoors during February to ensure a timely harvest. Heat-loving crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant require an early start because they need time to develop before transplanting. This indoor period provides a head start, protecting tender seedlings from the unpredictable cold of late winter.
Eggplant and pepper seeds are slow to germinate and grow, requiring a start eight to ten weeks before the expected outdoor planting date. Tomato seeds can be started slightly later, typically six to eight weeks before they are set into the garden. The goal is to grow sturdy, compact seedlings ready to transplant after the last frost has reliably passed and the soil has warmed.
Indoor starting requires environmental controls to mimic spring conditions. Seeds should be planted in a sterile, soilless mix and placed on a heat mat to maintain a soil temperature between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination. Once seedlings emerge, they must be placed immediately under grow lights to prevent them from becoming leggy and weak. Consistent light and warmth are necessary to build the strong root systems required for a productive summer.
Adding Color: Ornamental Plants and Herbs
February is not solely dedicated to edible crops; it provides an opportunity to add cool-season color and establish perennial herbs. Cool-season annual flowers like petunias and snapdragons can be planted as transplants now to provide color that lasts well into the spring. These blooms will thrive in the mild temperatures and can withstand light frosts, though they will fade once the intense summer heat arrives.
Gardeners can plant summer-flowering bulbs like gladiolus corms directly into the ground once the soil is workable and has reached about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Canna lily rhizomes and caladium tubers are available for purchase this month and can be started indoors for transplanting later. These bulbs will emerge in spring and provide dramatic height and foliage through the summer.
Perennial herbs are excellent additions in February, allowing them to establish a strong root system before the heat sets in. Hardy varieties such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano can be planted from transplants. Rosemary requires well-draining soil and can benefit from a mix of sand to ensure it does not succumb to the humidity and moisture of the Louisiana climate.