New Year, New Seeds | Native Gardening in Simcoe County
- mcnabbshellby1
- Jan 4
- 3 min read
January may feel quiet in the garden, but beneath the snow, planning is already underway. This month is about setting intentions, and for gardeners in Simcoe County, that starts with choosing the right seeds — ones that truly belong here.
Native plants are adapted to our climate, soils, and wildlife. By planning and ordering native seeds now, you’re investing in a healthier, more resilient garden for the seasons ahead.
🌼 Why January Is Seed Season
Winter is the ideal time to pause, plan, and prepare. Many native plants benefit from cold stratification, meaning they naturally germinate better after exposure to winter conditions. Ordering seeds in January ensures:
Better availability of native species
Time to understand germination needs
A clear plan before spring arrives quickly
Native gardening isn’t about rushing — it’s about intention.
🌾 Native Seeds to Look For This Winter
If you’re gardening in Simcoe County, these Ontario-native species are excellent choices to plan for now:
Pollinator & Wildflower Seeds
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
Common Milkweed (Asclepias spp.)
New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
Smooth or Calico Aster (Symphyotrichum spp.)
Native Grasses
Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)
Blue Grama Grass (Bouteloua gracilis)
These species support pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects while adding structure and seasonal interest.
🌿 Local & Near-Local Native Seed Suppliers
(Simcoe County & Central Ontario)
Supporting local seed growers helps ensure plants are genetically adapted to Ontario conditions and strengthens our regional horticultural community.
🌱 OSC Seeds
Carries a Simcoe County Native Seed Mix and individual native species
Reliable Ontario-grown seed source
Great option for meadows and pollinator gardens
🌿 Northern Wildflowers
Specializes in Ontario-native wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs
Excellent educational resources for growing natives from seed
Ships throughout Central Ontario
🌾 Ontario Native Plants
Offers native seed packets, plugs, and bare-root plants
Focus on local genetics and ecological restoration
Well suited for gardeners transitioning from ornamental to native landscapes
🌼 Bee Kissed Seeds
Ontario-based seed company with native wildflower options
Ideal for pollinator-focused gardens and small spaces
🌿 Local Conservation Authorities
Watch for spring seedling and plant sales through:
Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA)
Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA)
Often provide locally sourced native plants at affordable prices
📝 January Native Garden Checklist
Use this month to get organized:
✔ Review last year’s garden — what thrived, what struggled✔ Map sun, shade, and moisture zones✔ Choose seeds suited to your site conditions✔ Order seeds early before supplies sell out✔ Learn which seeds require cold stratification
A little planning now makes spring calmer and more intentional.
🌸 A Thought for the New Year
Native gardens don’t happen overnight — they grow stronger every year. January is about planting ideas, not plants. The choices you make now shape landscapes that work with nature, not against it.
Here’s to a new year, new seeds, and gardens that support life — right here in Simcoe County.
🌿 Need a Hand Planning Your Garden This Year?
If you’re feeling inspired but unsure where to start, I’m happy to help. I offer landscape design services, garden refreshes, and planting guidance tailored to Simcoe County conditions — whether you’re building a new native garden, transitioning an existing space, or simply looking to make your landscape more functional and sustainable. From layout and plant selection to hands-on refreshes and seasonal advice, I work with homeowners at every stage of the process. Thoughtful gardens don’t have to be complicated — sometimes they just need the right plan and a bit of support.
Comments