Louisiana has a humid subtropical climate, with long, hot, humid summers and short, mild winters, ranging from USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 8a through 10a.Louisiana’s climate varies widely per different areas of the state so get to know which zone your city is located in so that you can address and avoid potential issues before they become problematic.
The USDA zones map is a useful system for determining what plants will survive and grow in certain areas ofLouisiana.
Understanding how these hardiness zones work means you can choose the right planting time, and optimize growing for your climate.
The subtropical characteristics of the state are due to its low latitude, low lying topography, and the influence of the Gulf of Mexico.
Rain is frequent throughout the year, although from April to September is slightly wetter than the rest of the year, which is the state’s wet season. There is a dip in precipitation in October.
In summer, thunderstorms build during the heat of the day and bring intense but brief, tropical downpours.
In winter, rainfall is more frontal and less intense.
On occasion, cold fronts from low-pressure centers to the north, reach Louisiana in winter.