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Can You Grow Ginger in Minnesota?

US · USDA Zone 4a · zones 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b

Won't grow here

Ginger is tropical but grows beautifully as a container plant indoors with moderate light and warmth.

Plant zones

8a–12b

Minnesota last frost

late April

Minnesota first frost

early October

Days to harvest

240–300 days

When to plant Gingers in Minnesota

Start indoors

Feb 27

Transplant

Apr 25

Harvest

Dec 20 – Feb 18

Dates are approximate, based on Minnesota's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Ginger

Ginger is one of the most rewarding container crops — plant a grocery store rhizome in a pot and harvest fresh ginger in 8-10 months. Essential in Indian, Asian, and Caribbean cooking, and far more aromatic than the dried powder.

Start indoors 8 weeks before last frost. Soak a fresh ginger rhizome overnight, then plant 2-4 inches deep in rich potting mix. Prefers partial shade (unlike most edibles). Water consistently but do not waterlog. Harvest when foliage dies back in fall.

Full ginger growing guide →

Gardening in Minnesota

Minnesota has a cold humid continental climate. The Twin Cities are Zone 4b-5a; northern Minnesota reaches Zone 2b-3a. Cold winters but warm productive summers.