Shop Locally, Plant Locally: Native Plants are Blooming in Canada

As the days grow longer and the earth softens underfoot, Canadian gardeners have a fresh opportunity to support local ecosystems while creating stunning outdoor spaces. Thanks to a partnership between WWF-Canada and Loblaw Companies Ltd., a curated selection of native plants is now available at 142 select garden centres across Ontario and Quebec. This initiative offers a chance to do more than just garden – it’s an invitation to restore wildlife habitats, support pollinators, and invest in the long-term health of our communities.

Why Native Plants Make Sense

Native plants are the unsung heroes of any garden. Having evolved over centuries alongside local climates and soils, these plants are naturally resilient, requiring less water, fewer chemicals, and less maintenance than their non-native counterparts. This makes them perfect for busy gardeners looking for a low-fuss way to create beautiful, climate-friendly landscapes. They also play a vital role in supporting local wildlife, providing essential food and shelter for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, as well as other small mammals and birds.

At participating garden centres, look for native plants marked with the WWF panda logo – a symbol of environmental integrity. These plants aren’t just a pretty face. They’re grown by Canadian growers using seeds ethically sourced from local wild populations, ensuring they maintain the genetic diversity needed to support robust, resilient ecosystems. Unlike many commercial cultivars, these are wild-type plants, meaning they’re not modified for color or shape but remain true to their natural form – a vital quality for maintaining the delicate balance of local habitats. Plus, they’re grown without harmful neonicotinoids or glyphosate, making them a safer choice for your garden and the planet.

Join the re:grow Movement

For those looking to deepen their impact, WWF-Canada’s re:grow initiative offers a way to connect with other eco-conscious gardeners while tracking your contribution to biodiversity and climate resilience. By signing up, you gain access to expert advice on planting and maintaining native gardens, can share your successes with a like-minded community, and even earn a chance to win prizes.

As Kate Landry, Senior Manager of Community Action, Restoration, and Regeneration at WWF-Canada, explains: “Growing native plants is a win-win-win. They add beauty to our outdoor spaces, provide crucial food and shelter for local wildlife, and support Canadian businesses.”

Alain Brandon, VP of Sustainability, Social Impact, and Government Relations at Loblaw, echoes this sentiment: “When customers choose to incorporate native plants into their gardens, they’re not just enhancing the beauty of their communities but also fostering local ecosystems. Small actions can lead to significant change.”

So, as you plan your garden this spring, consider planting with a purpose. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a modest balcony, choosing native plants means supporting Canadian growers, building resilient ecosystems, and creating beautiful outdoor spaces that truly thrive. Visit your nearest participating Loblaw garden centre to explore this special collection and join the growing movement of gardeners making a difference, one plant at a time.