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When to plant Medlar in McLeod County, MN

McLeod County sits in cold Zone 4b. Plant Medlar May 28–June 11 for the single annual harvest; the October 4 first frost closes the window.

When to Plant Medlar in McLeod County, MN

Medlar is a small ornamental tree producing unusual open-ended fruits that must be bletted (softened by frost) before eating. The flavor is complex, like spiced apple butter.

McLeod County, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 30 and the first fall frost is October 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 157 days.

At an elevation of 1,011 feet, McLeod County receives approximately 36.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Medlar to ensure they mature before fall.

McLeod County, MN (Zone 4b) Moderate season
157 days
Last Spring Frost April 30
157 growing days
First Fall Frost October 4

McLeod County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Drainage

Well Drained

Medlar Planting Timeline — McLeod County, MN

Medlar Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors May 28 May 28 – Jun 11

· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January
February
March
April
May Transplant Outdoors
June Transplant Outdoors
July
August
September
October
November
December

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Full Sun (6-8+ hours)

💧 Water

Moderate — regular watering

📅 Days to Maturity

1095–1825 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 4b

📆 Growing Season

157 days in McLeod County

Growing Tips for McLeod County

Plant in well-drained soil. Medlars are self-fertile and need minimal pruning. Harvest after the first frost and allow to soften (blet) indoors for 2-3 weeks before eating.

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Medlar in McLeod County, MN?

McLeod County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of April 30. Plan your Medlar planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.

What planting zone is McLeod County, MN?

McLeod County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 30 and first fall frost is October 4.

When should I plant Medlar in McLeod County, MN?

In McLeod County, MN, plant Medlar after the last frost (around April 30) and before the first frost (around October 4). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is McLeod County, MN for Medlar?

McLeod County sits in USDA Zone 4b. Medlar grows reliably in zones 4a through 8b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Medlar grow in McLeod County's climate?

Yes — Medlar grows well in McLeod County's temperate climate. McLeod County averages a 157-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 30 and first frost around October 4.

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Your McLeod County Garden Planner — Free

A 22-page printable planner built for McLeod County (Zone 4b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for McLeod County, MN. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: June 2026.

Sources & credits

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