Our Story

Our Community

The “roots” of Thomsens Garden Center took hold in the late 1970’s. We are proud of the fact that we have grown into one of Minnesota’s largest greenhouse and garden centers, and through this we have helped thousands of gardeners make Central Minnesota one of the most beautiful places to live!

As newly minted “Thomsens”, Ryan and Steph Roder (along with Mother-in-Law Janice (“Nana”), furry friend Norman, and our four children who show up from time to time) aspire to build upon the great name built by founders Bob and Bonnie Thomsen and former owner Arno Shermock.  As Johnnie and Bennie alumnae, Ryan and Steph are intimately connected to this area.  But make no mistake– this business and its success is not due to us.  It’s due to the wonderful, knowledgeable staff that we both inherited and hired along the way.  In everything we do we strive to bring to you the knowledge our staff retains, and do it in a joyful, fun manner. As you’ll hear quite often, “Welcome to Our Happy Place”!

We Are Growers

“We grow what we sell”. This is especially important because we understand the plant material and how each particular variety performs in Central Minnesota. Our philosophy on growing ensures plants are thriving when moved into our retail garden center, but more importantly that the plants will continue to thrive when planted in your garden.

Sustainability

Greenhouses and garden centers were the original “green” movement. Green plant material, such as trees and perennials, absorb carbon dioxide and in turn release oxygen into our environment. While all trees vary in their size and absorption rates, a single tree can absorb up to 40 lbs. of carbon dioxide each year and release enough oxygen back into the atmosphere for 2 human beings. At Thomsens, we feel it is our responsibility to think globally and act locally in order to maintain the precious resources that so thankfully have been provided to us. When thinking about recycling at a greenhouse, the first item that comes to mind is plastic. Plastic pots, plastic trays, and greenhouse plastic are among the most widely used in this field. Each year we take in thousands of trays and containers for re-use in the upcoming season. In addition to plastic, all of the cardboard and wooden pallets take in as a result of our growing operations is recycled. This equates in the long run to tons of material each year that is being recycled rather than filling a landfill. We love our surroundings here in Collegeville; and with continued efforts to protect our limited resources, both on our part and on the part of the community, we can continue to enjoy Thomsens and our environment for years to come!