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Can You Grow Kale in Minnesota?

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

Grows well here

Kale grows exceptionally well here — it is one of the most cold-tolerant vegetables available.

Plant zones

2a–9b

Minnesota last frost

late April

Minnesota first frost

early October

Days to harvest

55–75 days

When to plant Kales in Minnesota

Start indoors

Mar 28

Transplant

Apr 25

Harvest

Jun 19 – Jul 9

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

About Kale

Kale is one of the hardiest vegetables available — it survives hard frosts and tastes sweeter after a freeze.

Sow indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost or direct sow in late summer for fall harvest. Harvest outer leaves to keep the plant producing. Cold-hardy varieties survive winter in Zone 7+.

Full kale 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.

See what grows well in Minnesota →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Kale in Minnesota?

Kale grows exceptionally well here — it is one of the most cold-tolerant vegetables available.

What zone is Minnesota?

Minnesota spans USDA Zone 4a (2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b).

When do you plant Kales in Minnesota?

Plant Kales around late April (start indoors Mar 28), harvest Jun 19 – Jul 9.