Question 1

When should I plant tomatoes in ZIP 55401?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 55401, the main tomatoes target is around May 17, based on the representative Minneapolis frost station and USDA zone 5a.

Question 2

When should I start tomatoes seeds indoors in 55401?

Accepted Answer

Start tomatoes seeds indoors in ZIP 55401 around Mar 29, about 42 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	March 29, 2026	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	May 17, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.

When to plant tomatoes in zone 5a

Tomatoes dates for Minneapolis, MN