Planting Dates for Minnesota
Minnesota's cold winters and warm summers create distinct growing conditions. The Twin Cities area and southern Minnesota offer the best growing seasons, while the northern regions require cold-hardy varieties.
USDA Zones 3a-5a • 100-160 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Minnesota
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Minnesota cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis | Apr 30 | Oct 7 | 160 | 4b |
| Duluth | May 18 | Sep 26 | 131 | 4a |
| Rochester | May 3 | Oct 3 | 153 | 4b |
Gardening Tips for Minnesota
- ✓Twin Cities gardeners typically plant after the May 10 last frost date.
- ✓Northern Minnesota has very short seasons — choose 55-65 day varieties.
- ✓Long summer days (16+ hours) compensate for the shorter season.
- ✓Mulch perennial gardens heavily before winter for cold protection.
What to Plant in Minnesota
Cold-Hardy Crops (plant early)
These crops tolerate frost and can be planted 2-6 weeks before your last frost date.
30-60 days from sowing
55-70 days from sowing
60-80 days from sowing
50-70 days from sowing
55-80 days from transplant
35-50 days from sowing
20-35 days from sowing
July-August the following year
90-120 days from transplant
70-120 days from planting
50-70 days from sowing
50-60 days from sowing
Warm-Season Crops (plant after last frost)
Start these indoors and transplant after all frost danger has passed.
60-85 days from transplant
60-90 days from transplant
50-65 days from sowing
50-65 days from sowing
45-60 days from sowing
60-100 days from sowing
30-60 days from sowing
Get Exact Planting Dates for Minnesota
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in Minnesota?
Last frost dates in Minnesota vary by city: Minneapolis (Apr 30), Duluth (May 18), Rochester (May 3).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Minnesota?
Minnesota spans USDA hardiness zones 3a-5a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Minnesota?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Minnesota. In warmer zones, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers do well with proper timing. Use our free calculator for exact planting dates.
How long is the growing season in Minnesota?
100-160 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
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Calculate exact planting dates based on your location and frost dates.