Vegetable Garden & Herb Plants
Serving Mukwonago, Waukesha, and East Troy
Shop vegetable starts and herb plants at our garden center in Mukwonago, WI, and get straightforward guidance for containers, raised beds, and backyard gardens across southeast Wisconsin.
What You'll Find for Vegetable Gardens & Herbs
We carry a seasonal selection of vegetable and herb plants, along with the essentials that make gardening simpler and more successful.
Vegetable starts (seasonal availability)
Herb plants for containers and garden beds
Soil, compost, and garden amendments
Pots, planters, and raised-bed supplies
Fertilizers and plant supports (stakes, cages, trellises)
Start with the Basics: Sun, Soil, and Water
A few fundamentals make a big difference—especially in our climate.
Most vegetables (and many herbs) do best with 6–8+ hours of sun for strong growth and great harvests. Not sure what your space gets? Bring a few photos and we’ll help you choose plants that match your light
For soil, focus on one thing: healthy, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. A quality compost or garden mix often makes a bigger impact than any “secret” fertilizer.
Watering is all about consistency. Deep watering a few times per week (instead of a light sprinkle every day) helps roots grow stronger—especially during hot, windy stretches.
Go-To Vegetables for Great Harvests
Tomatoes (especially cherry types)
Peppers
Zucchini and summer squash
Cucumbers
Green beans
Lettuce and leafy greens
Short on space? We can point you toward varieties that do well in containers.
Go-To Herbs for Cooking & Gardening
These dependable herbs earn their space—great for weeknight cooking, summer grilling, and container growing near the kitchen.
Basil
Parsley
Cilantro
Chives
Mint (best in its own pot)
Rosemary and thyme (great for sunny containers)
If you cook often, tell us what you like to make—we’ll help you build a simple herb mix that fits your light and your routine.
How to Set Up Your Garden
Whether you’re planting in containers, raised beds, or in-ground gardens, we’ll help you choose the right setup for your space and skill level. Each approach has its own advantages—and we can help you figure out which works best for you.
Planting Timing in Southeast Wisconsin
Timing matters in our region. Some crops love cool weather, while others need warm nights.
Cool-season: lettuce, spinach, kale, peas (early spring and again in late summer)
Warm-season: tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash (after the risk of frost)
If you’re unsure what to plant right now, ask what’s ready and what’s better to wait on—we’ll steer you in the right direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vegetable and herb plants should I buy for a southeast Wisconsin garden?
Start with reliable performers: 2–3 tomato plants (cherry types handle our humidity), 2 peppers, 1 cucumber, and 3–4 herbs (basil, parsley, chives). This mix gives you a real harvest without overwhelming you. If you’re short on space, containers work great—ask us which varieties fit your sun and what size pot you’ll need.
When should I plant vegetable starts in Mukwonago, WI?
In southeast Wisconsin, plant cool-season crops first (lettuce, kale, peas), then wait to plant warm-season crops (tomatoes, peppers, basil) until frost risk has passed and nights are consistently mild. If you tell us what you’re planting and whether it’s containers or a bed, we’ll help you time it so plants don’t stall in cold soil.
Can I grow vegetables and herbs in containers?
Yes—containers work extremely well if you follow three rules: use a pot with drainage, choose a larger container than you think, and water deeply. Herbs are ideal for containers, and tomatoes and peppers do great with a sturdy cage or stake plus consistent watering.
Fresh Tastes from Your Garden Start Here
Visit Thomas Greenhouse & Gardens in Mukwonago, WI for vegetable starts, herb plants, and the soil and supplies that make homegrown flavor easier.