Best Nurseries in Minneapolis: Top Plant Shops & Twin Cities Garden Centers
Minneapolis-St. Paul's plant scene proves that passionate gardeners thrive even in challenging climates. The Twin Cities endure some of the coldest winters of any major US metro, yet the region has a vibrant gardening culture and impressive nurseries that specialize in cold-hardy plants.
The metro area offers excellent options, from beloved institutions like Bachman's and Tonkadale to a growing wave of trendy plant boutiques in neighborhoods like Northeast Minneapolis and St. Paul's Summit-University. Minnesota gardeners make the most of summer's long daylight hours.
What makes Minneapolis special is the determination. When you can grow beautiful gardens in Zone 4-5, you're part of a dedicated community—and Twin Cities nurseries support that passion with expertise and quality plants.
Top Nurseries in Minneapolis
We're still building our directory for Minneapolis. Check back soon or browse all nurseries.
Growing in Continental Climate
Continental climates feature hot summers and cold winters, with dramatic seasonal changes. This means most houseplants must stay indoors at least half the year. The good news: homes here are often well-insulated, and winter heating creates consistent indoor temperatures. Watch humidity levels when heating is running.
Best Plants for Minneapolis
- Classic houseplants (Pothos, Philodendron, Snake Plant)
- Low-light tolerant plants for darker winters
- Hardy tropicals that tolerate temperature fluctuation
- Spider plants and tradescantias
- Chinese evergreens and dracaenas
More Challenging Plants
- Tropical plants in drafty areas
- Plants near heating vents
- Humidity-lovers without a humidifier in winter
Seasonal Tips for Minneapolis
Spring is the best time to buy plants—they'll have the whole growing season to establish. Summer allows outdoor time for many houseplants. Fall means preparing for the transition indoors. Winter requires extra attention to humidity and avoiding cold drafts.
Plant Shopping in Minneapolis: Local Insights
- Bachman's has been a Twin Cities institution since 1885
- Northeast Minneapolis and Summit-University have the Twin Cities' trendiest plant boutiques
- The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum provides excellent local gardening resources
- Minneapolis-St. Paul's extreme winters require very cold-hardy plants (Zone 4-5)
- The long summer days allow rapid plant growth despite the short season
Tips for Buying Plants in Minneapolis
Finding the right nursery can make all the difference in your plant journey. Here's what to look for when shopping in Minneapolis.
Check Plant Health Before Buying
Inspect leaves for yellowing, spots, or pest damage. Healthy plants have firm stems and vibrant foliage. Don't be afraid to gently tip the pot and check root health—white roots are good, brown or mushy roots signal problems.
Ask About Local Growing Conditions
Local nurseries understand your area's unique climate challenges. They can recommend varieties that thrive here and help you avoid plants that struggle in local conditions. This expertise is worth more than any online guide.
Consider the Journey Home
Weather can stress plants during transport. In summer, never leave plants in a hot car. In winter, wrap them for the trip. Many nurseries offer protective wrapping or delivery for sensitive plants.
Look for Locally Grown Stock
Plants grown locally are already acclimated to your area's conditions. They'll transition to your home more easily than plants shipped from different climates.
Build a Relationship
The best nurseries become long-term resources. Staff can track what you've bought, remember your successes and challenges, and provide ongoing support as your collection grows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and shopping at nurseries in Minneapolis.
Top Twin Cities nurseries include Bachman's, Tonkadale Greenhouse, and Mother Earth Gardens. For houseplants, visit Plant Goals MN or Northeast Minneapolis boutiques.
Zone 4-5 hardy plants thrive: hostas, daylilies, coneflowers, and Karl Foerster grass. Native Minnesota plants handle the extreme cold. Choose varieties rated for -30°F.
Plant Goals MN, local Northeast boutiques, and Bachman's have excellent houseplant selections. Mother Earth Gardens in South Minneapolis also specializes in houseplants.
Wait until after Memorial Day (late May) for tender plants—Minneapolis frost dates are notoriously late. Fall planting (September) is excellent for hardy species.
Prairie Moon Nursery, Out Back Nursery, and Minnesota Native Landscapes specialize in hardy natives. Minnesota Landscape Arboretum sales feature proven local species.
Start seeds indoors (March-April), use cold frames, and maximize summer's long daylight. Local nurseries stock quick-maturing varieties suited to short seasons.