Plant Like a Pro: What Actually Grows in North Dakota?

Boy, what a great weekend! The sun was out, the birds were chirping, and our local greenhouses were buzzing—and not just with bees. Gardeners from all corners of town were out with wagons full of green hopes and colorful dreams. I found myself in line, clutching a few plants like a proud new parent, and couldn’t help but overhear (and join!) a lively discussion about what didn’t make it through our North Dakota winter. Spoiler alert: more than a few houseplants went to the great compost pile in the sky.

You Have To Be Hardy To Make It Up Here

If you’ve ever tried to grow something green in Williston, you probably know how tricky it can be. That’s because we live in USDA hardiness zone 4A. Translation? Winter temps here can dip to a frosty -30°F to -25°F. That’s enough to make even the hardiest plant shiver in its roots.

Read More: Planting a Garden In North Dakota? Don’t Let Your Veggies Start a Fight!

So, what can we actually plant up here? Thankfully, NDSU has put together a handy list of flowers that can thrive here, so your gardening dreams don’t have to freeze over.

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Looking For Something Low And Pretty

Try pansies, dwarf snapdragons, or moss roses. Want something mid-height and eye-catching? Salvia (a personal favorite), zinnias, and geraniums are great choices. If you’re going tall and dramatic, reach for cosmos, cannas, or the always-bold American marigold.

Need An Idea For A Shady Spot

Impatiens, coleus, and even the cheerful forget-me-not are ready to shine without full sun. On the flip side, if your flower beds bake in the sun all day, consider dusty miller, lantana, or the ever-reliable rudbeckia.

How About An Idea To Create Some Buzz

And for those who want to give the bees and butterflies a reason to visit—go for verbena, sunflowers, and alyssum. It’s like setting out an all-you-can-eat buffet for pollinators!

So whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just planting your first pot of pansies, happy digging! Let’s make this a blooming great summer in North Dakota.

What's your favorite flower to grow in our chilly zone?