- 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 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.
Wormwood
Aster
Woodland Phlox
SHARE