Minnesota’s short summers and cold winters make perennial herbs like chives and sage a smart choice for reliable harvests. If you are looking for the best herbs to grow in minnesota, you need plants that can handle frost, heavy snow, and a tight growing window. This guide covers herbs that thrive in Zones 3 through 5, with tips for soil prep, planting times, and overwintering.
Herbs are forgiving plants. Even if you are new to gardening, you can grow a decent patch of parsley or mint with little fuss. The key is picking varieties that match your local climate. Below, you will find a detailed outline followed by practical advice for each herb.
Best Herbs To Grow In Minnesota
This section lists the top herbs for Minnesota gardens. Each entry includes why it works, how to plant it, and how to keep it alive through winter.
Chives
Chives are one of the easiest perennials for cold climates. They come back every year from the same root system. Plant them in full sun or partial shade. They tolerate clay soil well, which is common in many parts of Minnesota.
- Plant in spring after the last frost.
- Space plants 6 inches apart.
- Cut leaves regularly to encourage new growth.
- Divide clumps every 3 years to keep them productive.
Chives die back in winter but reappear in early April. They are one of the first herbs to green up in spring.
Sage
Sage is a woody perennial that survives Minnesota winters with some protection. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Avoid heavy clay that stays wet, as sage roots can rot.
- Choose a raised bed or sandy loam if possible.
- Plant sage in late May when soil warms.
- Mulch around the base after the ground freezes in November.
- Prune back dead stems in early spring.
Sage leaves have a strong flavor that works well in soups and roasts. It is a low-maintenance herb once established.
Thyme
Thyme is another perennial that handles cold well. It grows as a low mat, making it a good ground cover. Thyme needs full sun and sharp drainage. In heavy soil, it may struggle.
- Plant in spring or early fall.
- Water only during dry spells.
- Harvest by snipping stems just above the woody base.
- Protect with evergreen boughs in winter for extra insurance.
Thyme stays green under snow and bounces back quickly. It is one of the most reliable herbs for Minnesota gardens.
Mint
Mint is aggressive but very cold-hardy. It spreads by runners and can take over a bed if not contained. Grow it in a pot or a sunken container to control it.
- Plant mint in part shade to full sun.
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Harvest leaves frequently to prevent flowering.
- Cut plants to the ground after first frost.
Mint comes back reliably every year. It is great for teas and cocktails.
Oregano
Oregano is a perennial that thrives in poor soil. It does not need much fertilizer. Full sun and good air circulation help prevent powdery mildew.
- Plant oregano in spring after danger of frost.
- Space plants 12 inches apart.
- Water sparingly once established.
- Divide plants every 2 to 3 years.
Oregano leaves taste best just before flowers open. Dry them for winter use.
Parsley
Parsley is a biennial, meaning it grows leaves the first year and goes to seed the second. In Minnesota, it is often treated as an annual because winters kill it. However, if you mulch heavily, it may survive.
- Sow seeds directly in the garden in late April.
- Soak seeds overnight before planting to speed germination.
- Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart.
- Harvest outer leaves first.
Parsley needs consistent moisture. It is a good companion for tomatoes and roses.
Dill
Dill is an annual that self-seeds readily. Once you plant it, you may see volunteers for years. It grows quickly and prefers cool weather.
- Plant dill in early spring as soon as soil is workable.
- Do not transplant; direct sow only.
- Allow some plants to flower and drop seeds.
- Harvest leaves before flowers open for best flavor.
Dill attracts swallowtail caterpillars. Plant extra if you want to share with butterflies.
Cilantro
Cilantro bolts quickly in heat. In Minnesota, plant it in early spring or late summer for a fall crop. It is an annual that does not survive winter.
- Sow seeds every 2 weeks for a continuous harvest.
- Plant in partial shade to slow bolting.
- Harvest leaves when plants are 4 to 6 inches tall.
- Let some plants go to seed for coriander.
Cilantro is short-lived but easy to grow from seed.
Tarragon
French tarragon is a perennial that does well in Minnesota. It needs well-drained soil and full sun. Avoid overwatering, as roots are prone to rot.
- Plant tarragon from cuttings or divisions, not seed.
- Space plants 18 inches apart.
- Mulch in winter after ground freezes.
- Divide every 3 to 4 years to maintain vigor.
Tarragon has a mild licorice flavor. It is a staple in French cooking.
Lavender
Lavender is tricky in Minnesota because it needs dry winters. English lavender varieties like ‘Munstead’ and ‘Hidcote’ are the most cold-tolerant. Plant in raised beds with gravel mulch.
- Choose a south-facing spot with maximum sun.
- Amend soil with sand or grit for drainage.
- Water deeply but infrequently.
- Cover with row cover or straw in winter.
Lavender may not survive every winter, but it is worth trying for the fragrance.
Planting Schedule For Minnesota Herbs
Timing is everything in a short growing season. Use this schedule to plan your planting.
Early Spring (April To Mid-May)
- Direct sow dill, cilantro, and parsley.
- Plant chives, sage, and thyme from transplants.
- Prepare beds by adding compost.
Late Spring (Mid-May To June)
- Set out oregano, tarragon, and lavender transplants.
- Plant mint in containers.
- Start basil indoors for transplanting after frost.
Summer (July To August)
- Harvest regularly to encourage growth.
- Divide chives and oregano if needed.
- Sow fall cilantro in late July.
Fall (September To October)
- Cut back perennials after frost.
- Mulch sage, tarragon, and lavender.
- Collect seeds from dill and cilantro.
Soil Preparation And Site Selection
Most herbs prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Minnesota soil is often clay-heavy or acidic. Test your soil before planting.
- Add organic matter like compost to improve drainage.
- Raised beds warm faster in spring.
- Full sun is ideal, but some herbs tolerate part shade.
If you have heavy clay, grow herbs in containers or raised beds. This gives you more control over soil conditions.
Overwintering Herbs In Minnesota
Winter can kill herbs that are not properly protected. Follow these steps to help perennials survive.
- Stop fertilizing by mid-August to slow growth.
- Water deeply before the ground freezes.
- Apply a 4-inch layer of straw or leaves after the first hard freeze.
- Remove mulch in early spring when soil thaws.
Some herbs like lavender may need extra cover like a cold frame. Others like chives need no protection at all.
Common Problems And Solutions
Poor Drainage
Clay soil holds water and causes root rot. Add sand or grow in raised beds. Mint and chives tolerate wetter soil better than sage or lavender.
Frost Damage
Late spring frosts can kill tender herbs. Cover plants with row cover or cloth if frost is predicted. Remove covers in the morning.
Pests
Aphids and spider mites sometimes attack herbs. Spray with water or insecticidal soap. Avoid chemical pesticides that harm pollinators.
Bolting
Heat causes cilantro and dill to flower early. Plant in part shade and keep soil moist. Succession planting ensures a steady supply.
Harvesting And Storing Herbs
Harvest in the morning after dew dries. This is when oils are most concentrated. Use clean scissors or pruners.
- Cut no more than one-third of the plant at a time.
- Dry herbs by hanging bundles in a dark, airy space.
- Freeze herbs like chives and parsley in ice cube trays with water.
- Store dried herbs in airtight jars away from light.
Proper storage keeps herbs flavorful for months. Label jars with the herb name and date.
Container Gardening For Herbs
If you lack garden space, containers work well. Use pots at least 8 inches deep with drainage holes.
- Fill with potting mix, not garden soil.
- Place containers where they get 6 hours of sun.
- Water more often than in-ground plants.
- Bring tender herbs like basil indoors before frost.
Containers let you control soil and move plants to shelter in winter. Mint is especially well-suited to pots.
Companion Planting With Herbs
Herbs can benefit vegetables and flowers. Plant them near crops they protect.
- Chives near carrots to repel aphids.
- Dill near cabbage to attract beneficial wasps.
- Mint near brassicas to deter flea beetles.
- Thyme near roses to prevent black spot.
Companion planting reduces the need for pesticides. It also adds biodiversity to your garden.
Seed Starting Indoors
Some herbs need a head start indoors. Start seeds 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date, which is around May 10 in southern Minnesota.
- Use seed-starting mix in clean trays.
- Sow seeds at the depth listed on the packet.
- Keep soil moist and warm (65-70°F).
- Provide bright light from a grow lamp or sunny window.
- Harden off seedlings by exposing them to outdoor conditions gradually.
Basil, parsley, and lavender benefit from indoor starts. Dill and cilantro do not transplant well and should be direct sown.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Best Perennial Herbs For Minnesota?
Chives, sage, thyme, mint, oregano, and tarragon are top choices. They survive winter with minimal care.
Can I Grow Basil In Minnesota?
Yes, but basil is an annual that needs warm soil. Plant it after all frost danger has passed, usually late May or early June.
How Do I Protect Herbs From Minnesota Winter?
Mulch with straw or leaves after the ground freezes. Use row cover for less hardy plants like lavender. Bring containers indoors if possible.
What Herbs Grow Well In Shade In Minnesota?
Mint, chives, and parsley tolerate partial shade. Most other herbs need at least 6 hours of sun.
When Should I Plant Herbs In Minnesota?
Plant perennials in spring after the last frost. Direct sow annuals like dill and cilantro in early April. Start tender herbs indoors in March.
Final Tips For Success
Start small. Pick three or four herbs that you use often. Chives, thyme, and parsley are good choices for beginners. Expand your garden as you gain experience.
Water wisely. Most herbs prefer dry conditions over wet. Overwatering is a common mistake. Let the soil dry between waterings.
Observe your garden. Note which herbs thrive and which struggle. Adjust your choices next year based on what works.
Share with neighbors. Many herbs spread or produce more than one household needs. Trading herbs builds community and reduces waste.
Enjoy the process. Herbs are forgiving and rewarding. Even a small patch can provide fresh flavors all summer.