What to Plant, When: A Seasonal Guide for Minnesota Gardeners
Gardening in Minnesota can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires careful planning to ensure your plants thrive in our unique climate. From the first signs of spring to the crisp days of fall, knowing what to plant and when can make all the difference in your garden’s success. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide will help you make the most of Minnesota’s growing seasons.
Spring: The Season of Renewal
Spring in Minnesota is the perfect time to start planting cool season crops and hardy perennials. As the ground begins to thaw and temperatures slowly rise, you can start working in your garden. Here’s what to plant in early to mid spring:
Cool Season Vegetables: Start with hardy vegetables like peas, spinach, lettuce, and radishes. These crops can tolerate the cooler temperatures of early spring and will be ready for harvest before the summer heat kicks in.
Perennials and Shrubs: Spring is also a great time to plant perennials like daylilies, hostas, and peonies. These plants establish strong roots in the cooler weather and will reward you with beautiful blooms year after year. If you’re looking to add structure to your garden, consider planting shrubs like lilacs and hydrangeas.
Herbs: Cold tolerant herbs such as parsley, chives, and mint can be planted in early spring. They’ll add flavor to your kitchen and texture to your garden beds.
Summer: The Peak Growing Season
As the weather warms up, it’s time to plant heat loving vegetables and colorful annuals that will brighten your garden through the summer months. Here’s what to plant in late spring to early summer:
Warm Season Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and beans are all great choices for summer planting. These crops thrive in the warm weather and long days, providing bountiful harvests throughout the season.
Annual Flowers: Add vibrant color to your garden with annuals like marigolds, zinnias, petunias, and impatiens. These flowers bloom all summer long and are perfect for garden beds, borders, and containers.
Herbs: Basil, cilantro, and dill are summer favorites that grow quickly in the heat. Plant them in a sunny spot and enjoy fresh herbs for your summer recipes.
Fall: Preparing for the Future
As summer fades into fall, Minnesota gardeners can focus on cool season crops and preparing the garden for winter. Fall is also a great time to plant bulbs and some late season vegetables. Here’s what to consider planting:
Cool Season Vegetables: Planting a second round of cool season vegetables like kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts in late summer will give you a fresh harvest well into the fall.
Bulbs: Fall is the ideal time to plant spring blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. Planting these bulbs before the ground freezes ensures a burst of color when spring returns.
Trees and Shrubs: Early fall is perfect for planting trees and shrubs. The cooler temperatures and increased rainfall help these plants establish strong roots before winter.
Winter: Planning and Preparation
Winter in Minnesota is more about planning than planting, but there are still important tasks to keep your garden healthy:
Mulching: Protect your perennials, shrubs, and young trees from harsh winter conditions by applying a layer of mulch. This helps insulate the soil and prevents frost heaving.
Planning: Use the winter months to plan your garden for the next year. Consider what worked well, what didn’t, and what new plants you might want to try. This is also a great time to order seeds and supplies so you’re ready to go when spring arrives.