Gardening Ideas in the Minneapolis Area

Use gardening ideas to create a beautiful outdoor space in Minneapolis.Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images

Minnesota, known for its twin cities and many lakes, is on the northern border of the United States. The entire state is inside USDA hardiness zones 3 and 4, which means all garden plants must survive in temperatures from -40 to -20 degrees F. Many gardeners may think this is limiting, but there are lots of gardening ideas that can be used in the Minneapolis area to create a one-of-a-kind outdoor space.

Wormwood

Wormwood is best planted in partial shade in dry, well-draining soil. Wormwood is one of the few plants that will grow in sandy soil types, which makes it a good choice for Minneapolis gardens with a high content of sand. Wormwood is a perennial that will re-emerge in the garden again and again. Shrublike wormwood grows up to 3 feet high with silver-green foliage. The leaves reach 3 inches in length. Small flowers, greenish or yellow in color, bloom on the stems from July to October. Wormwood may be grown in USDA hardiness zone 3.

Flowers in the aster family grow well in USDA hardiness zone 4. Aster grows wild in Minneapolis and other parts of Minnesota. The plant grows between 3 and 4 feet in height; often, staking is required to keep it upright. The daisylike flowers of the aster bloom in clusters of white, red, purple and pink. Plant asters in well-drained soil where they will receive full sunlight to light shade. To enjoy summer flowers, plant immediately after the last frost date. Asters may be grown as annuals or perennials.

Woodland phlox grows well in USDA hardiness zone 3, reaching 12 to 18 inches in height and 3 feet in spread. Grow woodland phlox in partial shade. Lavender or white flowers will appear on the plant in spring. Plant phlox in rich, well-draining soil in early spring to enjoy a thick, colorful ground cover that may be grown under flowers and shrubs in the garden.