MN

Minnesota Growing Guide

Capital: Saint PaulMidwest Region

Complete growing guide for Minnesota gardeners. Learn what to plant, when to plant, and how to succeed with humid continental (cold) climate conditions across zones 3, 4, 5.

3, 4, 5

USDA Zones

100-160

Days Season

May 1

Last Frost (Early)

September 15

First Frost (Early)

Climate & Growing Conditions

Climate Type

Humid Continental (Cold)

Growing season of 100 to 160 days

Frost Dates

Last Spring Frost: May 1May 30

First Fall Frost: September 15October 10

Common Soil Types

Glacial tillRed clay (north)Prairie loamPeat bogs

⚠️ Growing Challenges

  • Very cold winters
  • Short season
  • Late spring
  • Heavy snow

Growing Advantages

  • Cold-hardy variety breeding
  • Clean water
  • Low disease pressure

Minnesota's Famous Crops

Wild rice
Sweet corn
Potatoes
Sugar beets
Turkeys

📅 Minnesota Monthly Planting Calendar

See what to plant each month in Minnesota based on your local frost dates

View Monthly Calendar →

Resources

Minnesota Cooperative Extension

Get expert local advice from your state's agricultural extension service

Visit Minnesota Extension →

Weekly Growing Tips

Get seasonal planting reminders, crop rotation tips, and farm planning strategies delivered weekly.