What to plant this week in Milwaukee, WI
With Milwaukee's average last frost still lingering until April 21, this week marks the final pause before your spring planting rush begins. While temperatures hover near the -10°F winter minimum, gardeners should focus on clearing cold frames and preparing soil rather than rushing outdoor sows.
The next 7 days
Milwaukee, WIGrowing in Milwaukee right now
- Milwaukee's clay-heavy soils stay frozen longer in low-lying areas like Riverdale; ensure drainage paths are cleared before attempting early spring tillage.
- The city experiences significant lake-effect snow shifts that can suddenly raise or lower temps by 10+ degrees, so keep a weather radar open for frost warnings after April 21.
- Apply compost to heavy glacial till soils now to improve workability as the ground thaws unevenly across different neighborhoods.
Sow this week
No direct sowing windows open this week.
Transplant this week
Nothing is due to go out this week.
Harvest soon
2 crops- Daikon Radish
- Garlic
Seasonal tips
- Apply fresh mulch now to retain soil moisture as temperatures rise.
- Test soil pH before adding any compost or amendments for new transplants.
- Keep a close eye on emerging seedlings to protect them from late spring fluctuations.
Pest & disease watch
- Watch for late-winter slugs hiding in mulch near Lake Michigan shores that emerge aggressively once soil temps rise above freezing.
- Monitor garlic fields for winter injury signs like purple discoloration if a hard freeze occurs after new growth emerges post-frost date.
Watering this week
Water deeply but less frequently now that the soil is warming up, encouraging strong root development.
Harvest Daikon Radish promptly before the heat sets in to ensure the best crunch and flavor.
Milwaukee gardening questions
3Can I plant outdoor tomatoes this week in Milwaukee?
No, wait until at least April 21 when the average last frost passes and soil temperatures are consistently above 45°F to avoid root shock on young plants.
Should I sow direct seeds this week?
If your garlic was planted in fall, look for signs of yellowing lower leaves now; it may be ready to dig soon depending on how early you set it last year.
Is there any sowing activity recommended for Milwaukee right now?
Not yet; keep all cold-sensitive seeds indoors or in protected cold frames until after the April 21 frost date, as even a late freeze can kill emerging seedlings.
Other cities in zone 6a
12See the full zone 6a guide → · Plan your Milwaukee garden in SproutGuide →