Question 1

When should I plant basil in ZIP 55401?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 55401, the main basil target is around May 20, based on the representative Minneapolis frost station and USDA zone 5a.

Question 2

When should I start basil seeds indoors in 55401?

Accepted Answer

Start basil seeds indoors in ZIP 55401 around Apr 5, about 35 days before the May 10 last-frost estimate.

Question 3

When is the last frost in Minneapolis?

Accepted Answer

Minneapolis (ZIP 55401) has an average last spring frost around May 10, based on the representative Minneapolis frost station.

Question 4

When is the first frost in Minneapolis?

Accepted Answer

Minneapolis (ZIP 55401) has an average first fall frost around Oct 1, leaving about 144 frost-free days.

Question 5

Is this a guaranteed planting date?

Accepted Answer

No. GrowZone uses frost-date estimates, hardiness zones, and crop timing rules for planning. Local microclimates and current weather can shift the right date.

Step	Date	How to use it
Start Indoors	April 5, 2026	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	May 20, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.
Direct Sow	May 20, 2026	Sow seed outside when the crop and soil can handle the window.

When to plant basil in zone 5a

Basil dates for Minneapolis, MN