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When to Plant Ground Cherry in Minnesota

Ground cherries produce small, sweet, tropical-tasting berries enclosed in papery husks. They are related to tomatillos and cape gooseberries and self-sow readily.

Minnesota spans USDA hardiness zones 4a, 4b (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

Find Your County

Click your county for exact Ground Cherry planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Ground Cherry Planting Calendar for Minnesota

Zone 4a ~145 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: May 6 · First frost: September 28 · 145 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors June 3 Jun 3 – Jun 17
Harvest August 12 Aug 12 – Oct 7
Zone 4b ~155 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: May 1 · First frost: October 3 · 155 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors May 29 May 29 – Jun 12
Harvest August 7 Aug 7 – Oct 2

Growing Tips for Minnesota

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Let fruits fall to the ground naturally when ripe inside their husks. The husk turns brown and papery when the fruit is ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Ground Cherry in Minnesota?

Planting dates for Ground Cherry in Minnesota depend on your USDA zone. Minnesota spans zones 4a, 4b. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Minnesota for planting?

Minnesota contains USDA hardiness zones 4a, 4b. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: April 2026.