When Do the Flowers Bloom? What to Expect at a You-Pick Flower Farm in Minnesota
If you’ve ever driven by a flower farm in early June and wondered, Where are all the flowers? — you’re not alone! In Minnesota’s Zone 4B, our growing season starts late, and most of the colorful blooms you’re excited to cut don’t show up until late June into July.
You Pick Flower Cup from The Romestead Flower Farm
Here at The Romestead Flower Farm in Cambridge, our fields follow the same natural rhythm as all northern farms. Let’s walk through the timeline so you know exactly what to expect—and when—to plan your visit for the best bouquet possible!
Spring: Just Getting Started (May–Early June)
By the time the weather finally warms up in May, our field is full of green growth—but not many flowers yet. While the plants are growing fast behind the scenes, they still need a few more weeks of sunshine before they burst into bloom.
Why no flowers yet?
Most of the cut flowers we grow—like zinnias, sunflowers, dahlias, and cosmos—are warm-weather lovers. They don’t even go into the ground until the frost is gone, usually mid to late May. Once planted, they need anywhere from 50 to 90 days to mature and start blooming.
So if you’re visiting in early June, expect to see lush green plants, buds forming, and a few early bloomers—but know that the real flower magic is still on the way!
Late June to July: The Blooming Begins
This is when the flower field starts to come alive! Early varieties like snapdragons, bachelor’s buttons, and some sunflowers begin to bloom first. Zinnias and cosmos follow close behind. By the first or second week of July, our fields are filling up with color, texture, and variety—and that’s when our you-pick season begins.
If you’re planning your first visit, mid to late July is a perfect time to experience the joy of strolling through rows of vibrant blooms with a bucket in hand.
August to September: Peak Flower Picking
This is the sweet spot of the season. Nearly everything is in bloom—including our show-stopping dahlias, dozens of varieties of zinnias, sunflowers in all shapes and sizes, celosia, amaranth, cosmos, marigolds, and so much more.
The fields are overflowing, and you can build your dream bouquet with color, height, fragrance, and texture. These months are also perfect for photos, picnics, and family outings, especially with the warm golden light of late summer evenings.
If you want to see the flower farm at its most abundant—August is the time to come!
Late September to October: Last Blooms Before Frost
In Minnesota, the first frost can arrive any time from late September to mid-October. Until then, we’re still blooming strong—especially the dahlias, which absolutely thrive in cool nights and crisp mornings. We keep our roadside stand stocked and our you-pick field open for as long as Mother Nature allows.
Some flowers, like zinnias and cosmos, will bloom right up to the night of the first hard frost. It’s always bittersweet, but it makes those last bouquets feel extra special.
A Few Tips for Planning Your Visit:
Don’t expect flowers in May or early June—our farm opens for picking when the blooms are ready, usually mid-July through early fall.
Bring a clean bucket for your flowers and water to keep them fresh on the way home.
Dress for the field—sun hats, comfy shoes, and sunscreen go a long way.
Follow us on social media for bloom updates, weather closures, and special events!
Come Bloom With Us
We love sharing our field with you—whether you’re cutting a birthday bouquet, bringing home your weekly flower fix, or just soaking in the colors. Our self-serve farm is built on trust, community, and the simple joy of fresh-picked flowers.
Come visit us at The Romestead Flower Farm, and experience the bloom season the way nature intended—slow, beautiful, and absolutely worth the wait.
32685 Palm St NW, Cambridge, MN
Open Saturdays & Sundays | 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Weekday roadside stand available (self-serve)
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for bloom updates!
