May Gardening Tips for Southeast Wisconsin🌼

May Gardening Tips for Southeast Wisconsin🌼

Plant, Protect, and Prepare for a Successful Season

May is a pivotal month for gardeners in Southeast Wisconsin. With the soil warming and the last frost dates typically passing between May 10 and 20 ​, it’s the ideal time to dive into planting, maintenance, and preparation for a thriving summer garden. Here are five essential gardening tasks to focus on this month.

1. Plant Warm-Season Vegetables and Annuals

By mid-May, it’s generally safe to plant warm-season vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, squash, cucumbers, and beans. Soil temperatures should consistently reach at least 60°F for optimal growth. This is also the perfect time to add vibrant annuals such as marigolds, petunias, and zinnias to your garden beds and containers.​

Planting Tip: Before transplanting seedlings started indoors, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week. This process minimizes transplant shock and enhances their chances of thriving.​

2. Divide Overcrowded Perennials

Spring is an excellent time to divide perennials like hostas, daylilies, and ornamental grasses.

  • Encourages healthier, more vigorous plants
  • Helps control the size of mature clumps
  • Provides free plants to expand your garden or share with others​

After dividing, water thoroughly and mulch around the new plantings to conserve moisture and reduce stress.​

3. Feed Your Plants

The burst of spring growth can quickly deplete soil nutrients. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to nourish your garden beds, shrubs, and trees. Be sure to choose fertilizers appropriate for specific plant needs, such as acid-loving varieties like azaleas and rhododendrons.​

Fertilizer Tip: Applying fertilizer just before a rainstorm can help the nutrients seep into the soil more effectively.​

4. Prune Spring-Flowering Shrubs After Bloom

Shrubs that bloom in early spring, such as lilacs, forsythias, and viburnums, should be pruned soon after they finish flowering. Proper pruning encourages:​

  • Better shape and structure
  • More abundant blooms for next year
  • Removal of any dead or damaged wood​

Waiting too long to prune can reduce next year’s flowering.​

5. Prepare for Common Pests

As the weather warms, insect pests such as aphids, slugs, and beetles begin to appear. Early preventative measures are important to keep damage minimal without resorting to heavy chemical use.​

Pest Management Strategies:

  • Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and predatory wasps
  • Hand-pick larger pests whenever possible
  • Use row covers to protect young vegetable plants
  • Keep garden beds weed-free, as weeds can harbor pests​

May is the Month of Opportunity

The work you put into your garden now will pay off all season long. Whether you’re planting new flowers, setting out vegetable transplants, or installing a fountain to create a peaceful retreat, Heritage Hill Nursery is here to help. Stop by for expert advice, fresh plants, and the tools you need to make this your best gardening season yet.​

🌿 April Gardening Tips for Southeast Wisconsin

🌿 April Gardening Tips for Southeast Wisconsin

April marks the start of true gardening season here in Southeast Wisconsin. The snow is gone (we hope!), the soil is warming up, and garden centers are bustling with excitement. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting your hands dirty, this month offers the perfect opportunity to prep, plant, and plan for a thriving season ahead.

Here are five essential April gardening tips to help you start strong:


1. Clean Up Your Beds – But Be Gentle with Pollinators

It’s tempting to go full throttle with your spring cleanup, but take a closer look before clearing leaves and stems. Many beneficial insects — especially native bees, butterflies, and ladybugs — are still sheltering in last year’s plant debris.

🧤 Tip: Start cleaning up around emerging perennials, but leave some areas undisturbed until temperatures are consistently above 50°F. This gives pollinators time to safely wake up and move on.


2. Test and Prep Your Soil

Before diving into planting, give your soil some love. A simple soil test can help you understand your garden’s pH and nutrient levels — a crucial step in making sure your plants thrive.

🧪 You can get a test kit from your local extension office or garden center.
🌱 While you wait for results, work in compost or well-rotted manure to add organic matter and improve drainage.

And don’t forget, early spring is the best time to apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide, especially when adding soil amendments


3. Plant Cold-Hardy Vegetables & Annuals

Mid-to-late April is prime time for sowing cool-season crops like:

  • Lettuce
  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Peas
  • Radishes
  • Broccoli and cabbage transplants

You can also start setting out cold-hardy annuals like pansies, violas, and snapdragons, which tolerate chilly nights and brighten up early beds and containers.


4. Prune Shrubs the Right Way

April is a great time to prune certain shrubs — but timing is everything. Use this simple rule:

✂️ Prune summer and fall bloomers now (like spirea, hydrangea paniculata, and potentilla)
🌸 Wait to prune spring bloomers (like lilac, forsythia, and weigela) until after they flower, or you risk cutting off this year’s buds.

Bonus Tip: Don’t prune roses too early! Wait until you see new growth beginning.


5. Mulch Smartly to Suppress Weeds and Lock in Moisture

As the soil warms, adding a fresh layer of mulch can:

  • Suppress early weeds
  • Hold in moisture
  • Regulate soil temperature
  • Give your beds a clean, finished look

Use 2–3 inches of shredded bark, straw, or leaf mulch, but keep mulch away from the base of plants and tree trunks to prevent rot and pests.


🌼 April is a Month of Momentum

This is the time to get your hands in the soil, take stock of your garden’s layout, and make plans for new plantings. Whether you’re sowing seeds, preparing beds, or simply soaking up sunshine on a garden bench, know that each small step you take now sets the stage for a thriving, beautiful season ahead.

Keep an eye on the forecast, listen to your garden, and don’t hesitate to visit us for expert advice and plant recommendations tailored to our region.

Celebrate Spring with Sweet Scents and Blooming Savings – April Specials at Heritage Hill Nursery!

Celebrate Spring with Sweet Scents and Blooming Savings – April Specials at Heritage Hill Nursery!

Spring is finally making its grand entrance here in Southeast Wisconsin — and at Heritage Hill Nursery, we’re embracing the season with beautiful blooms, cozy aromas, and can’t-miss April specials that will brighten both your garden and your home.

This month, we’re excited to offer exclusive discounts on two of our customer favorites:

  • 45% Off all Candle Warmers, Melts & Candles
  • 25% Off our incredibly fragrant Scentara Lilac shrubs

Let’s take a closer look at these limited-time offers and why you’ll want to make Heritage Hill Nursery part of your April plans.


🕯️ Cozy Up with 45% Off Candles, Melts & Warmers

After a long Wisconsin winter, there’s nothing better than coming home to the soft glow and welcoming fragrance of a fresh candle. Whether you’re celebrating the season with floral, citrus, or herbal notes, our candle collection is hand-picked to bring warmth and comfort into your space.

Why we love them:

  • Flame-free options: Our candle warmers are a safer way to enjoy your favorite scents — perfect for homes with kids or pets.
  • Seasonal fragrance blends: From blooming florals to refreshing clean scents, there’s something for every taste.
  • Beautiful gift ideas: With Mother’s Day right around the corner, this sale is a great opportunity to grab thoughtful, budget-friendly gifts.

Now through the end of April, all candles, melts, and warmers are 45% off — but hurry! These items tend to go quickly, and all sales are final.


🌿 Breathe in Spring with 25% Off Scentara Lilacs

One of the most iconic scents of spring? Lilacs, of course! And there’s one variety that rises above the rest in fragrance, bloom quality, and garden performance — the Scentara Lilac.

This stunning shrub is everything a lilac lover dreams of: big, beautiful purple blooms with an incredibly rich perfume that fills the air. Even better? Scentara Lilac is specially bred to thrive in cooler climates, making it a perfect match for Southeastern Wisconsin landscapes.

Why gardeners love Scentara Lilac:

  • Exceptional fragrance – More intense than traditional lilacs
  • Earlier, longer-lasting blooms – Enjoy color and scent for weeks
  • Hardy and reliable – Performs beautifully in zone 5 gardens
  • Pollinator-friendly – Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Whether you’re planting a hedge, designing a fragrant front yard, or simply adding a showpiece to your landscape, Scentara Lilac won’t disappoint. This month only, take 25% off while supplies last.

📌 Please note: This sale applies only to the Scentara variety. Other lilac varieties are available at regular price.


🌸 Why Shop Now?

April is the start of planting season in Wisconsin, and it’s one of the most exciting times to visit the nursery. Perennials are popping up, trees are leafing out, and shrubs like the Scentara Lilac are getting ready to bloom. Our staff is here to help you plan and shop for everything from new garden beds to spring gifts.

When you shop our April specials, you’re not just saving — you’re investing in beauty, fragrance, and warmth for your home and garden.

✅ Support a local, family-owned nursery
✅ Get expert planting advice tailored to our region
✅ Explore new arrivals and seasonal highlights
✅ Enjoy one-on-one help from passionate plant lovers


Don’t Miss Out – These Deals End April 30!

These sales are available through the month of April, or while supplies last. With discounts this deep and the gardening season just beginning, you won’t want to miss the chance to save.

Visit us soon and treat yourself to:

🌼 A garden full of sweetly scented lilacs
🕯️ A home that smells like spring
🌸 A fresh start to the planting season!

🌿 Stay connected for more seasonal tips, plant spotlights, and expert advice made just for Wisconsin gardens. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes peeks and fresh arrivals!

Thank you for being part of another wonderful season here at Heritage Hill Nursery!

Thank you for being part of another wonderful season here at Heritage Hill Nursery!

Thank you for being part of another wonderful season here at Heritage Hill Nursery! We truly appreciate your support and trust in us.

As we move into winter, please note that starting November 1st, we’ll be open by appointment only through the season. However, our team is still available for landscaping projects, so feel free to reach out at 262-305-4045 to schedule a consultation or project.

Looking forward to serving you through winter and into the next season!

Warm regards,
The Heritage Hill Nursery Team

October Specials at Heritage Hill Nursery: Fall into Savings!

October Specials at Heritage Hill Nursery: Fall into Savings!

October Specials at Heritage Hill Nursery: Big Savings for Fall Gardening

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to get your garden and outdoor spaces ready for the cooler months ahead. Whether you’re looking to refresh your landscape, add some seasonal charm to your home, or take advantage of unbeatable deals on high-quality plants and garden decor, Heritage Hill Nursery has everything you need. Our October specials offer deep discounts that make it easy to upgrade your garden while sticking to your budget. Let’s dive into the incredible savings we have for you this month!

Gift Store Extravaganza: 45% Off

October is the perfect month to start thinking about holiday decor, and at Heritage Hill Nursery, we’re offering a huge 45% off select items in our gift store. This includes artificial flowers, fountains, fountainettes, and Christmas candle melts/warmers. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your indoor spaces or need that perfect holiday gift, these items are sure to inspire.

Artificial flowers are a great way to bring a pop of color to any room, especially as the outdoor blooms fade. You can create stunning arrangements that last year-round without any of the maintenance. Pair them with our selection of Christmas candle melts and warmers to add a cozy, festive atmosphere to your home. Imagine the scent of cinnamon, pine, and spiced apple filling your living room while soft candlelight flickers—it’s the essence of fall and winter wrapped into one.

We’re also featuring fountains and fountainettes at 45% off, offering the perfect way to add a tranquil, soothing touch to your garden or patio. A fountain not only creates a beautiful focal point but also brings the calming sound of water to your outdoor spaces, turning your garden into a serene retreat. With the holiday season approaching, these make fantastic gifts for the garden enthusiasts in your life—or a little treat for yourself!

As always, please note that all sales are final in the gift store, so be sure to act fast before these treasures are gone!

Garden Center: Inventory Reduction Sale – 50% Off

If you’ve been thinking about adding some new life to your garden, now is the time! Our Garden Center is holding an inventory reduction sale with 50% off select perennials, shrubs, and trees. This is a fantastic opportunity to snag top-quality plants at a fraction of the cost. We know how important it is to get the most out of your landscape, and adding new plants in fall can give your garden a head start for next year.

Perennials, such as coneflowers, hostas, and daylilies, are essential for creating lasting beauty in your garden. Not only do they come back year after year, but planting them in the fall allows them to establish strong roots before the cold winter months. By next spring, they’ll be ready to burst forth with lush growth and vibrant blooms.

Shrubs add structure and visual interest to your landscape, and now is the perfect time to plant varieties that will bring texture and color throughout the seasons. Shrubs like hydrangeas, spireas, and boxwoods can give your garden a fuller, more established look. At 50% off, there’s no better time to add these versatile plants to your outdoor space.

Looking to create a statement with a new tree? Our selection of trees at half price will make a beautiful addition to your landscape. From shade trees to flowering varieties, trees provide both beauty and function, helping to cool your home in summer and create a focal point in your yard. Keep in mind that fall is an ideal time for planting trees, as cooler temperatures reduce stress on young plants while the soil is still warm enough for root development.

Again, remember that all sales are final in the Garden Center, so be sure to visit soon before the best deals are gone!

Clearance House: Up to 75% Off

For the bargain hunters out there, our Clearance House offers up to 75% off on a wide range of items. This is your last chance to get these deeply discounted products, and everything in the clearance section is priced to move. Whether you’re stocking up on supplies for next year or looking for end-of-season garden decor, you won’t find better prices anywhere else.

From garden accessories to pots, tools, and more, our Clearance House has something for every gardener. Need a new set of planters for your porch? Or maybe you’re eyeing a decorative piece for your patio? With discounts this steep, now is the time to pick up those items you’ve had your eye on all season. Don’t miss out—everything in the Clearance House is final sale, and once these items are gone, they’re gone for good.

Why Shop at Heritage Hill Nursery?

At Heritage Hill Nursery, we’re more than just a place to buy plants. We’re passionate about helping you create the garden of your dreams. Our staff is here to offer expert advice, whether you’re selecting the perfect tree for your front yard or choosing the right perennials to add color and texture to your garden beds. We believe that every garden has its own unique story, and we’re committed to helping you make yours beautiful.

Here are just a few reasons why Heritage Hill Nursery is the best place for all your gardening needs:

  • High-Quality Plants: We carefully select plants that will thrive in our local climate, ensuring you get the best possible results in your garden.
  • Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable team is always on hand to answer questions, offer planting tips, and help you choose the right products for your landscape.
  • Local Focus: As a local business, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities of gardening in Cedarburg, WI. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
  • Unbeatable Deals: Our October specials offer the perfect chance to add to your garden and decor without overspending. From our Gift Store to the Clearance House, there’s something for everyone this month.

Fall Hours Update

Please note that for the remainder of the season, we’ve adjusted our hours to better suit your schedule. We will be open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM, Saturday from 8 AM to 4 PM, and closed on Sundays. Be sure to plan your visit accordingly, and don’t miss out on these amazing October specials!


Visit Us This October!

At Heritage Hill Nursery, we’re excited to help you make the most of your garden this fall. Whether you’re looking for deep discounts on plants and decor or need expert advice for preparing your garden for winter, we have everything you need. Our October specials won’t last long, so visit us soon to take advantage of these amazing deals before they’re gone. We look forward to seeing you at the nursery and helping you create a landscape you’ll love all year round!