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Can You Grow Sunflower in Minnesota?

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

Grows well here

Sunflowers grow brilliantly here — they love the warm season and produce quickly.

Plant zones

2a–11b

Minnesota last frost

late April

Minnesota first frost

early October

Days to harvest

60–80 days

When to plant Sunflowers in Minnesota

Direct sow

Apr 25

Harvest

Jun 24 – Jul 14

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

About Sunflower

Sunflowers are fast-growing cheerful and attract pollinators — some varieties produce edible seeds.

Direct sow after last frost in the sunniest spot available. No transplanting needed. Giant varieties need staking. Harvest seed heads when the back turns brown and seeds are firm.

Full sunflower 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.