ELKHORN — One of the best ways to give your garden a head start is to transplant garden plants started from seed in local greenhouses.

Choosing locally produced plants from small scale farms can give you more choices for your garden, plants that are stronger and healthier, and usually time tested to be a good fit for your region, says April Yuds of LotFotL Community Farm.

Plus, a friendly conversation with the farmer can answer many of your garden questions and set you up for success. Our area has a number of established growers that can help you fill your garden with locally grown thriving veggies and flowers.

LotFotL Community Farm: Serving the community since 2007, you are sure to love their vibrant certified organic plants. Pre-order from their website to secure the varieties that you love, or shop in person right at the farm at their annual plant sale on May 14^th and 15^th from 10 am to 3 pm. While you are there, you can purchase other farm items, or even sign up for a painting workshop, so you can make a day of it. www.lotfotl.com

Turtle Creek Gardens: Located just north of Delavan, their certified organic plants have been pleasing customers for years. Pick up plants from them at their farm plant sale on May 27^th, 28^th, and 29^th from 9am to 3pm. https://www.turtlecreekgardenscsa.com/

Maggie’s Herbs and Heirlooms: Maggie chooses heirloom varieties that have been around a long time and/or are open-pollinated, and that have proven themselves to thrive in the southern Wisconsin climate. You can find her plants sold at Frank’s Piggly Wiggly (Elkhorn and East Troy) and Gooseberries Market (Burlington) among other places. https://maggiesherbsandheirlooms.com/

Peach Tree Organic Gardens: These folks sell plants grown using traditional compost, seeds, soil, water and sun. They specialize in open-pollinated, heirloom lettuces, mustards, garlic and tomatoes, but grow much more. Find their plants at local farmers markets and at their farm on the roadside stand. peachtreeorganics@gmail.com

April Yuds of LotFotL Community Farm says, “Choosing to go local with your garden plants will help you grow a better garden and help grow a stronger community.”

.