Minnesota Planting Guide & Growing Season
Minnesota is in USDA hardiness zone 3a-4b with a growing season of 150 days. The average last spring frost is May 5 and the average first fall frost is Sep 30.
Growing Conditions in Minnesota
How Minnesota Compares
Compare Minnesota's growing conditions with states that have similar climates.
| State | USDA Zone | Last Frost | First Frost | Season (days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota (MN) | 3a-4b | May 5 | Sep 30 | 150 |
| Alabama (AL) | 7a-8b | Mar 15 | Nov 5 | 235 |
| Alaska (AK) | 1a-7b | May 30 | Sep 5 | 100 |
| Arizona (AZ) | 4b-10b | Mar 1 | Nov 15 | 260 |
| Arkansas (AR) | 6b-8a | Apr 1 | Oct 25 | 210 |
| California (CA) | 4b-11a | Feb 15 | Nov 30 | 290 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Gardening in Minnesota
When should I start seeds indoors in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, the average last frost date is May 5. Start most seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before this date. The USDA hardiness zone for Minnesota is 3a-4b, with a growing season of approximately 150 days.
What USDA hardiness zone is Minnesota?
Minnesota falls in USDA hardiness zones 3a-4b. This affects which perennial plants will survive winter and influences optimal planting times.
When is the first frost in Minnesota?
The average first frost date in Minnesota is Sep 30. Plan to harvest cold-sensitive crops before this date or protect them with row covers.
How long is the growing season in Minnesota?
Minnesota has an average growing season of 150 days, from the last frost (May 5) to first frost (Sep 30). This shorter season requires starting many crops indoors and choosing quick-maturing varieties.
Plan Your Garden
Use our seed starting calculator to get personalized planting dates, or browse all states.