Flowers Grown in Minnesota
- Petunias are just one type of flower that grows in Minnesota.Arthur Tilley/Creatas/Getty Images
With its harsh winters, you may not think of Minnesota as a good place to grow flowers, but there are dozens of flowers you can grow in the state. You can choose from both annuals and perennials. Flowers that are annuals develop from a seed or cutting into a plant, set seed and die in one season. Perennial flowers live for two or more years. Choose from the many flowers that grow well in Minnesota. - Fibrous begonias tender annuals, which need a long growing season, according to the University of Minnesota. Because of this, begin planting fibrous begonias for Minnesota inside well ahead of the last frost, and then transplant them outside after frost danger is past.
- Impatiens are another tender annual grown in Minnesota. Unlike fibrous begonias, though, they will not benefit from an early start inside. According to the University of Minnesota, wait until the end of May to plant them outside.
- A bright annual you can plant in Minnesota is a petunia. By beginning your petunias indoors, you can choose from more varieties. It will generally take 10 to 12 weeks of indoor growing in Minnesota before you can transplant your petunias outside according to the University of Minnesota. After the last frost, make sure the soil is at least 60 degrees and before transplanting.
- Peonies are perennials that flower in mid to late May, according to the University of Minnesota. Plant peonies in the fall and mulch them the first season after the ground has frozen, recommends Hidden Springs Flower Farm. Also, make sure you water the area through the fall and winter if there is no rain. Remove the mulch on April 1, or when snow has melted, because the peonies will soon begin growing.
- Daylilies are tough garden perennials that survive Minnesota winters with little to no damage. Plant daylilies outside any time of the year as long as you can work with the soil. If you are transplanting daylilies from inside, move them outside in early spring, or right after flowering according to the University of Minnesota. Use some form of winter mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, to protect the plants.
- Chrysanthemums are a perennial that come in many sizes and colors. Florist mums from supermarkets and greenhouses may not survive a Minnesota winter. The University of Minnesota has a list of more than 30 types they recommend for the state. Plant mums in the spring after the last frost. You can plant large container plants from garden centers in spring, summer or early fall. Water mums regularly in the summer if there is not much rain. Use a 4 to 6 inch layer of mulch in the winter to protect the plant.