Owner Erik Winer previews what’s in store for customers this season

By Matthieu Vollmer

Business Writer

MARSHFIELD — Mill Creek Gardens, located on Mill Creek Drive just outside of Marshfield, is slated to open for the season on Friday, April 24.

According to owner Erik Winer, Mill Creek Gardens offers premier, clean, and high-quality plants. Mill Creek Gardens has not increased prices since 2012 due to added efficiency enhancements.

“If you’ve been here in the past, it’s a totally different place today. It’s a lot different than what it was. I pour my heart and soul into this place. It’s all about the flowers and the customers,” said Winer.

Winer, a graduate of the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), is an electrical engineer by trade. He purchased the business in 2011 and now runs it with his parents, Bruce and Sherri.

According to Winer, 95 percent of the operation’s inventory was comprised of annuals when he purchased it. However, Mill Creek Gardens has integrated more perennials and now showcases over 600 plant varieties. They have undergone massive renovations, including the addition of ebb-and-flow tables, new greenhouse space, and a satellite location near the intersection of North Central Avenue and North Peach Avenue in Marshfield.

“They are such pleasant people. They always have a nice assortment of flowers that I like, and that’s why I keep coming back,” said JoAnn Therkilsen, a customer of five years. “I really enjoy coming here,” she said.

The company has donated to the Bill Allen Golf Outing and Relay for Life and provides extra plants for downtown Marshfield planters.

“So many customers come in and say, ‘That’s exactly what I was looking for’ when they leave. Bring in anything, and tell us what you like. We don’t just offer commodities. We will find what works for you,” said Winer.

Best selling items include geraniums and sweet potato vines, and Winer said that they always carry new or unique varieties each year. Mill Creek Gardens is excited about their hydrangea series, which will bloom by Mother’s Day.

Other services include plant storage for customers that are not able to take their plants home on the day of purchase. Almost 100 customers took advantage of the storage space last year. Mill Creek Gardens supplies businesses with flowers as well. Current customers include MSOE and Security Health Plan.

When asked what he would recommend to someone who has not visited before, Winer replied, “You have to come out and see it. You won’t be disappointed.” He added that they have one-half acre of land under greenhouse space. “People thought this business was commercial, but it’s not anymore. We are changing,” he said.

Mill Creek Gardens is located at 8839 Mill Creek Drive. Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit www.eriksllc.com, call 715-591-2000, email eriksllc@gmail.com, or find them on Facebook.