Soil Temperature in Minnesota
The current average 2-inch soil temperature across Minnesota is 47°F, based on 4 USDA and NOAA monitoring stations. Readings range from 40°F to 52°F. Last updated May 18, 2026.
Current Planting Conditions
Cool-season root growth is beginning across Minnesota as soil averages 47°F at 2 inches. Pre-emergent herbicide applications should be planned soon. The window opens when soil holds above 50°F for several consecutive days.
Monitoring Stations in Minnesota (4)
| Station | 2" Temp | Last Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Crescent Lake #1 (Sherburne) | 52°F | 2026-05-18 |
| Glacial Ridge (Polk) | 47°F | 2026-05-18 |
| Goodridge 12 NNW | 40°F | 2026-05-18 |
| Sandstone 6 W | 49°F | 2026-05-18 |
Cities in Minnesota (29)
| City | ZIP | Current Temp | Distance from state center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bemidji | 56601 | — | 92 mi |
| Burnsville | 55306 | — | 118 mi |
| Detroit Lakes | 56501 | — | 82 mi |
| Duluth | 55801 | — | 110 mi |
| Eden Prairie | 55344 | — | 107 mi |
| Elko New Market | 55020 | — | 128 mi |
| Fergus Falls | 56537 | — | 85 mi |
| Grand Rapids | 55730 | — | 76 mi |
| Hibbing | 55746 | — | 102 mi |
| Hopkins | 55305 | — | 101 mi |
| Howard Lake | 55349 | — | 85 mi |
| Inver Grove Heights | 55076 | — | 118 mi |
| Loretto | 55357 | — | 87 mi |
| Mankato | 56001 | — | 148 mi |
| Maple Plain | 55348 | — | 93 mi |
| Minneapolis | 55401 | — | 103 mi |
| Monticello | 55362 | — | 72 mi |
| Moorhead | 56560 | — | 123 mi |
| Norwood | 55383 | — | 106 mi |
| Osseo | 55311 | — | 93 mi |
| Rochester | 55901 | — | 178 mi |
| Rockford | 55373 | — | 87 mi |
| Saint Cloud | 56301 | — | 51 mi |
| Saint Paul | 55101 | — | 109 mi |
| Stacy | 55078 | — | 88 mi |
| Stillwater | 55082 | — | 110 mi |
| Virginia | 55777 | — | 120 mi |
| Waite Park | 56387 | — | 51 mi |
| Young America | 55394 | — | 105 mi |
Soil Temperature FAQ for Minnesota
What is the current soil temperature in Minnesota?
The current average 2-inch soil temperature across Minnesota is 47°F, based on 4 USDA and NOAA monitoring stations. Readings range from 40°F to 52°F depending on location and elevation.
When should I apply pre-emergent in Minnesota?
Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil at 2 inches reaches 55°F for several consecutive days. Timing varies across Minnesota, so check your city's page for station-specific readings and the pre-emergent timing recommendation.
When can I plant grass seed in Minnesota?
Cool-season grasses (fescue, bluegrass) can be seeded when soil holds between 50 and 65°F. Warm-season grasses (bermuda, zoysia) need soil above 65°F. Timing varies by location, so check your city's planting window for the dates specific to your area.