Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Brainerd, MN, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 4a.
On this page:
Brainerd, MN Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Brainerd, MN
The average last frost date in spring for Brainerd is May 25th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until June 8th before moving plants outdoors. Waiting these extra few weeks significantly reduces the risk of a late freeze damaging young transplants.
First Fall Frost Date for Brainerd, MN
The average first frost date in fall for Brainerd is September 25th. This date marks the approximate end of the growing season for tender plants. Gardeners should plan to harvest frost-sensitive vegetables or provide heavy protection (such as row covers) before this date to avoid crop loss.
Growing Season Length in Brainerd, MN
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Brainerd is approximately 123 days. This duration determines which vegetable varieties have enough time to reach maturity before the winter cold sets in. Short-season varieties are recommended for crops that require a longer warm period.
Please note: These dates are climatological averages. Actual weather conditions vary by year. Always check the local 10-day forecast before planting.
Brainerd, MN Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Brainerd, MN Monthly Planting Recommendations
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Aubergine seeds indoors (from March 30th to April 13th), starting Petunia seeds indoors (from March 16th to March 30th), and starting Geranium seeds indoors (from March 16th to March 30th).
April
In April, recommended activities include starting Sage seeds indoors (from April 13th to April 27th), direct sowing California Poppy (from April 27th to May 11th), and starting Basil seeds indoors (from April 13th to April 27th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Babys Breath (from May 25th to June 8th), direct sowing Beet (from May 11th to May 25th), and direct sowing Cilantro (from May 11th to June 8th).
June
In June, recommended activities include direct sowing Mung Bean (from June 8th to June 22nd), direct sowing Cosmos (from June 1st to June 8th), and direct sowing Butternut Squash (from June 1st to June 15th).