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When to Plant Rue in Minnesota

Rue is a bitter, aromatic perennial herb with bluish-green foliage used historically in medicine and as a pest deterrent. Handle with care as its sap can cause skin irritation.

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 Rue planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Rue 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 May 13 May 13 – May 27
Harvest July 22 Jul 22 – Sep 23
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 8 May 8 – May 22
Harvest July 17 Jul 17 – Sep 18

Growing Tips for Minnesota

Start seeds indoors or direct sow. Plant in well-drained soil. Wear gloves when handling as sap can cause phytophotodermatitis. Prune in early spring.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Rue in Minnesota?

Planting dates for Rue 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.