Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Elk river, MN, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 4a.
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Elk river, MN Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Elk river, MN
The average last frost date in spring for Elk river is May 10th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 24th 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 Elk river, MN
The average first frost date in fall for Elk river is October 5th. 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 Elk river, MN
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Elk river is approximately 148 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.
Elk river, MN Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Elk river, MN Monthly Planting Recommendations
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Pansy seeds indoors (from March 1st to March 15th), starting Celery seeds indoors (from March 1st to March 15th), and starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from March 15th to March 29th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Flax (from April 12th to April 26th), direct sowing Arugula (from April 12th to April 26th), and direct sowing Calendula (from April 26th to May 10th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Runner Bean (from May 17th to May 31st), direct sowing Lima Bean (from May 24th to June 7th), and direct sowing Mung Bean (from May 24th to June 7th).