Elliot is CAGE MKE's resident growing expert. He's spent years with his hands in Milwaukee soil, learning what works and passing that knowledge on to the next generation. Now he's available to answer your growing questions — anytime, right from your phone.
Got a question about your garden, your soil, or what to plant? Elliot's AI assistant is here to help. Ask about anything — from starting your first tomato plant to composting in a Milwaukee winter.
Elliot's AI assistant is trained on urban growing practices. For specific CAGE MKE programs or visits, call us at (414) 779-2476.
Elliot's Top Tips
Four things every Milwaukee grower should know
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Know Your Sun
Most veggies need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Watch your yard for a day — track where the sun lands and plant there.
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Water Deep, Not Often
A good soak 2-3 times a week beats a light sprinkle every day. Roots grow deeper when they have to reach for water.
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Feed Your Soil
Compost is gold. Kitchen scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells — turn them into your soil and it will feed your plants for you.
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Start Simple
Tomatoes, peppers, greens, and herbs are forgiving for beginners. Master those first, then expand your garden.
Milwaukee Growing Calendar
What to do in each season — straight from Elliot
Spring
Mar - May
•Start seeds indoors
•Prep beds with compost
•Plant cool-season crops: lettuce, peas, radishes
Summer
Jun - Aug
•Plant tomatoes, peppers, squash
•Water deeply 2-3x/week
•Mulch to hold moisture
Fall
Sep - Nov
•Harvest late crops
•Plant garlic for next year
•Cover beds with leaves for winter
Winter
Dec - Feb
•Plan next year's garden
•Order seeds
•Maintain tools
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Want to grow with us?
CAGE MKE welcomes growers of all levels. Come learn in our gardens, volunteer your time, or just stop by to see what's growing on Reservoir Ave.