Ready to transform your backyard into a lush, thriving paradise? Whether you’re a green-thumbed guru or just starting your gardening journey, the right online nursery can make all the difference. We’ve scoured Canada’s digital garden aisles to bring you the best of the best—top-notch plants, unbeatable deals, and expert tips. So, grab your gloves and trowel; it’s time to dig into Canada’s 15 best online nurseries and garden supplies!
In this post, you’ll learn:
- What are the best online nurseries and garden supply stores in Canada.
- What each store offers, from plants to tools to gardening advice.
- Exclusive deals and discounts you won’t want to miss.
- About the benefits of shopping at online nurseries.
- Expert tips for saving money on garden supplies.
- Gardening tips to help you make the most of your green space.
- About essential gardening tools and supplies.
1. Richters Herbs
Website: Richters Herbs
When it comes to herbs, Richters is the holy grail. Based in Goodwood, Ontario, this family-run business has thrived since 1969. Richters Herbs offers various herbs, seeds, and medicinal plants. Their website is a treasure trove for anyone interested in herbalism, with detailed information about each plant’s culinary, medicinal, and aromatic uses.
- What They Offer: Over 800 varieties of herb plants and seeds, medicinal herbs, teas, and even DIY herbal kits.
- Notable Brands: Richters Original, Organic Herb Seeds.
- Special Offers: Subscribe to their newsletter for seasonal discounts and exclusive offers.
2. Veseys Seeds
Website: Veseys Seeds
Veseys Seeds in Prince Edward Island has been a trusted name for those passionate about planting since 1939. Whether you’re looking for vegetable seeds, flower bulbs, or gardening tools, Veseys has you covered.
- What They Offer: Seeds, bulbs, gardening tools, and accessories.
- Notable Brands: Veseys, Pollinator Mixes.
- Special Offers: Subscribe to receive Vesey’s special offers and promotions to unlock free shipping on your first order.
3. Green Barn Farm
Website: Green Barn Farm
Green Barn Farm is all about sustainability. Based in Quebec, they specialize in cold-hardy fruit trees and plants, perfect for the Canadian climate. If you’ve ever dreamed of growing apples, pears, or kiwi, this is the place for you.
- What They Offer: Fruit trees, rare and heirloom varieties, and organic growing supplies.
- Notable Brands: Hardy Kiwi, Northern Apples.
- Special Offers: Early bird discounts for spring orders and bulk purchase discounts.
4. T&T Seeds
Website: T&T Seeds
Founded in 1946 in Manitoba, T&T Seeds is a gardener’s paradise with a wide selection of seeds, plants, and garden supplies tailored for the Canadian climate. From vegetables to flowers to fruit trees, they offer everything you need to make your garden flourish.
- What They Offer: Seeds, fruit trees, perennial plants, and gardening supplies.
- Notable Brands: Prairie Hardy Varieties.
- Special Offers: Sign up for their catalog for seasonal deals and promotions.
5. Urban Seedling
Website: Urban Seedling
If you’re an urban gardener, Urban Seedling in Montreal is a dream come true. They specialize in helping city dwellers grow their food in small spaces, offering everything from balcony gardening kits to vertical planters.
- What They Offer: Organic seeds, balcony and rooftop gardening supplies, as well as urban farming workshops.
- Notable Brands: Urban Seedling Originals.
- Special Offers: Seasonal discounts and package deals on urban gardening kits.
6. West Coast Seeds
Website: West Coast Seeds
Founded 1983 in British Columbia, West Coast Seeds is committed to organic and sustainable gardening. Their extensive catalog includes certified organic seeds, heritage and heirloom varieties, and sprouting seeds for your kitchen garden.
- What They Offer: Organic seeds, gardening tools, and accessories.
- Notable Brands: Organic Seed Alliance.
- Special Offers: Get 15% off your first order with West Coast Seeds, your go-to source for premium gardening supplies.
7. Stokes Seeds
Website: Stokes Seeds
For over 140 years, Stokes Seeds has been a trusted name in the seed industry. Their extensive catalog features everything from vegetable seeds to flowers to herbs, all carefully selected for the Canadian climate.
- What They Offer: Vegetables, flowers, herb seeds, and gardening accessories.
- Notable Brands: AAS Winners, Canada Seeds.
- Special Offers: Discounts on bulk seed orders and seasonal promotions.
8. Dutch Growers
Website: Dutch Growers
Based in Saskatchewan, Dutch Growers is more than just a nursery—it’s a lifestyle destination. In addition to a wide selection of plants and garden supplies, they offer fashion, home décor, and more, making it a one-stop shop for all things green and stylish.
- What They Offer: Plants, seeds, garden décor, and fashion accessories.
- Notable Brands: Dutch Growers Originals.
- Special Offers: Canada Post handles shipping within Canada at a flat rate of $16.99 per order.
9. Sheridan Nurseries
Website: Sheridan Nurseries
Sheridan Nurseries is a well-known name in Ontario, with multiple garden centers across the province. Their online store offers a vast selection of plants, tools, and garden décor, all backed by over 100 years of horticultural expertise.
- What They Offer: Plants, seeds, garden furniture, and tools.
- Notable Brands: Sheridan’s Exclusive, Espoma.
- Special Offers: Brighten your space with Sheridan Nurseries’ Plant of the Week! Enjoy a lush 30% off on regular prices and bring home your new favorite greenery today.
10. William Dam Seeds
Website: William Dam Seeds
William Dam Seeds has provided gardeners with high-quality seeds in Dundas, Ontario, since 1959. Their selection focuses on non-GMO, untreated seeds, strongly emphasizing sustainability.
- What They Offer: Vegetable, herb, flower seeds, and organic gardening supplies.
- Notable Brands: William Dam Originals.
- Special Offers: Free seed catalogs and seasonal discounts.
11. Florissa
Website: Florissa
If you’re on the hunt for beautiful bulbs, Florissa is a must-visit. Based in British Columbia, Florissa offers a vibrant selection of flower bulbs that will make any garden pop with color.
- What They Offer: Flower bulbs, perennials, and garden accessories.
- Notable Brands: Florissa Originals, Canadian Bulbs.
- Special Offers: Subscribe to the newsletter for the freshest gardening tips, trends, and updates. Get the best of green living delivered straight to your inbox.
12. GardenWorks
Website: GardenWorks
With multiple locations in British Columbia, GardenWorks has become a go-to for West Coast gardeners. Their online store offers a wide selection of plants, tools, and garden décor, all tailored to the coastal climate.
- What They Offer: Plants, seeds, garden tools, and outdoor living accessories.
- Notable Brands: GardenWorks Originals.
- Special Offers: GardenWorks provides Free shipping on every order and conducts seasonal clearance sales.
13. Ontario Seed Company
Website: Ontario Seed Company
With over 130 years in the business, Ontario Seed Company (OSC Seeds) is a trusted name in Canadian gardening. They offer a wide selection of seeds, including flowers, vegetables, herbs, and cover crops.
- What They Offer: Seeds, bulbs, and organic gardening supplies.
- Notable Brands: OSC Originals, Organic Seed.
- Special Offers: Free shipping on orders over $50 and seasonal sales events.
14. The Plant Place
Website: The Plant Place
Located in Nova Scotia, The Plant Place offers various indoor and outdoor plants. It is known for its high-quality tropical plants, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to bring a touch of the tropics into their home or garden.
- What They Offer: Tropical plants, succulents, annuals, perennials, and garden accessories.
- Notable Brands: The Plant Place Originals.
- Special Offers: Monthly specials and discounts for first-time buyers.
15. Incredible Seeds
Website: Incredible Seeds
As the name suggests, Incredible Seeds is your one-stop shop for many seeds. They focus on heirloom and open-pollinated varieties. Located in Nova Scotia, they pride themselves on offering seeds that are not unique but also environmentally friendly.
- What They Offer: Heirloom seeds, vegetable seeds, herb seeds, and more.
- Notable Brands: Incredible Seeds Originals.
- Special Offers: Get FREE Lettermail shipping on orders over $25 at Incredible Seeds! Note: Offer excludes nuts and large seeds.
The Benefits of Shopping at Online Nurseries
Shopping for garden supplies online has transformed how Canadians grow their green spaces. Here’s why more gardeners are opting for online nurseries:
1. Wider Variety: Online nurseries offer a broader selection than local garden centers. You’ll find what you need with just a few clicks, whether seeking heirloom vegetables or rare houseplants.
2. Expert Advice at Your Fingertips: Many online nurseries provide detailed plant information, growing guides, and expert tips tailored to Canadian climates. This helps you make informed decisions without leaving home.
3. Convenience: Busy life? No problem. Shop anytime, compare products quickly, and deliver everything to your door. It’s a time-saver, especially for bulky or delicate items.
4. Access to Unique Plants: Online nurseries are treasure troves for rare and specialty plants that are hard to find locally.
5. Competitive Pricing: Without the overhead of physical stores, online nurseries often offer better prices, plus seasonal sales and discounts.
6. Eco-Friendly Choices: Many online nurseries focus on sustainability, offering organic products and eco-friendly packaging.
7. Customer Reviews: Online reviews and gardening communities give insights into plant performance and product quality.
8. Year-Round Availability: Unlike seasonal garden centers, online nurseries stock plants year-round, allowing you to plan and find what you need anytime.
Top Tips for Saving Money on Garden Supplies
Gardening doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby. You can cultivate a lush garden without breaking the bank with a few savvy strategies. Here are our top tips for saving money on garden supplies:
1. Buy in Bulk: Many online nurseries offer discounts on bulk purchases. Whether you’re buying seeds, soil, or mulch, buying in larger quantities often comes with significant savings.
2. Take Advantage of Seasonal Sales: Garden supplies often go on sale at the end of the growing season. This is a great time to snag tools, pots, and even plants at a fraction of the regular price.
3. Join Loyalty Programs: Many online nurseries offer loyalty programs that reward frequent shoppers with discounts, special offers, and early access to sales.
4. Use Discount Codes and Coupons: Search for discount codes or coupons before purchasing. Many online stores offer promotional codes that can be applied at checkout for instant savings.
5. DIY Compost and Fertilizer: Instead of buying expensive compost and fertilizer, consider making your own from kitchen scraps and yard waste. This not only saves money but also reduces waste.
6. Share and Swap with Friends: Gardeners often have extra seeds, plants, or supplies. Organize a swap with friends or local gardening groups to exchange surplus items, saving everyone money.
7. Repurpose Household Items: Get creative with what you already have! Old containers, jars, and even broken furniture can be repurposed as planters or garden décor.
8. Start from Seeds: Growing plants from seeds is far more cost-effective than buying mature plants. With patience, you can grow a garden full of flowers, vegetables, and herbs for a fraction of the cost.
9. Shop Off-Season: Some garden supplies are cheaper during the off-season. For example, buying tools and equipment in winter can save you a lot compared to peak gardening season prices.
10. Look for Free Resources: Many communities offer free compost, mulch, or plants through local gardening groups or municipal programs. Look for community giveaways or recycling programs.
Gardening Tips for Success
Gardening isn’t just about planting seeds and waiting for them to grow. It’s an ongoing process that requires patience, knowledge, and a bit of experimentation. Here are some expert tips to help your garden thrive:
- Know Your Zone: Canada has a wide range of climate zones. Before planting, know your local zone and choose plants well-suited to your area before planting.
- Start with Healthy Soil: Healthy plants start with healthy soil. Invest in quality soil and compost, and consider getting a soil test to understand what nutrients your garden might be lacking.
- Water Wisely: Over-watering can be just as harmful as under-watering. Water your plants early or late in the evening to reduce evaporation and ensure they get the needed moisture.
- Mulch, Mulch, Mulch: Mulching helps retain moisture, reduce weeds, and add nutrients to the soil. It’s an easy way to give your plants a little extra love.
- Rotate Crops: If you’re growing vegetables, rotating your crops yearly can help prevent soil depletion and reduce the risk of pests and diseases.
- Use Companion Planting: Some plants grow better together. For example, planting marigolds with tomatoes can help repel pests. Research companion planting strategies to maximize your garden’s productivity.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Gardening is as much about learning as it is about growing. Don’t be afraid to try new plants, techniques, or layouts. Every garden is unique; discovering what works best for you is fun.
Essential Gardening Tools and Supplies
While plants and seeds are the show’s stars, the right tools and supplies are crucial to your gardening success. Below is a table of must-have gardening tools and where you can find them online:
Tool | Description | Where to Buy | Price Range |
Pruners | Essential for trimming plants and shrubs. | Lee Valley Tools | $25 – $60 |
Garden Gloves | Protects your hands while working in the soil. | T&T Seeds | $10 – $30 |
Watering Can | For watering plants without damaging them. | GardenWorks | $15 – $40 |
Spade | Ideal for digging and moving soil. | West Coast Seeds | $20 – $50 |
Garden Hose | A flexible hose for watering larger areas. | Greenhouse Megastore | $30 – $100 |
Wheelbarrow | For transporting soil, plants, and tools. | Sheridan Nurseries | $50 – $150 |
Compost Bin | Recycle organic waste into valuable compost. | Veseys Seeds | $60 – $200 |
Plant Labels | Keep track of plant types and varieties. | Incredible Seeds | $5 – $20 |
Conclusion
Whether sowing your first seeds or expanding your garden oasis, these top 25 online nurseries and garden supply stores in Canada offer everything you need to nurture your green space. Your garden can flourish in any season with the right tools, plants, and expert tips. So, dive in, explore these trusted resources, and let your gardening journey blossom into something extraordinary. Happy gardening!
FAQ
When selecting an online nursery, consider plant variety, shipping options, customer reviews, and return policies. Also, check if the nursery offers specific advice for Canadian climates.
Yes, many online nurseries in Canada are reliable. Researching customer feedback and ensuring they have an excellent reputation for healthy, well-packaged plants is essential.
Absolutely! Many Canadian online nurseries offer various garden supplies delivered right to your door, including soil, fertilizers, tools, and other essentials.
Online nurseries typically use specialized packaging to protect plants during transit, including moisture-retaining materials and sturdy boxes to prevent damage.
Most reputable online nurseries in Canada have a customer service policy for damaged or unhealthy plants. Contact them immediately to request a refund or replacement.
Many online nurseries specialize in native Canadian plants, which are well-suited to the local climate and support biodiversity.
Several online nurseries prioritize eco-friendly practices, offering organic plants, sustainable packaging, and environmentally responsible gardening products.
Delivery times can vary depending on the nursery and your location, but most online nurseries in Canada aim to deliver within 5-10 business days.
Online nurseries often update their inventory to reflect seasonal changes, offering plants that thrive in the current Canadian climate.
Ordering plants during extreme weather isn’t recommended, as harsh conditions can affect plant health during shipping. Many nurseries will advise against it and may delay shipping until safer conditions prevail.