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Can You Grow Parsnip in Minnesota?

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

Grows well here

Parsnips are a great match for your zone — they love a long cool season and frost sweetening.

Plant zones

2a–9b

Minnesota last frost

late April

Minnesota first frost

early October

Days to harvest

100–130 days

When to plant Parsnips in Minnesota

Direct sow

Apr 25

Harvest

Aug 3 – Sep 2

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

About Parsnip

Parsnips are an underrated root vegetable — sweet and nutty after frost exposure. They need deep, loose soil and a long season but reward patience with exceptional flavor.

Direct sow only — parsnips do not transplant well. Sow fresh seed (old seed has poor germination) 3-4 weeks before last frost. Thin to 6 inches. Leave in ground after frost — cold converts starch to sugar.

Full parsnip 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.