Spring is a season of return. The birds are back, the soil is softening, and the land is waking up. It’s also the perfect time to get your hands in the dirt and reconnect with the rhythms of the natural world…starting with what you plant.

Native plants are a simple, meaningful way to support biodiversity right in your own yard. These species are adapted to our local climate and soil, so they thrive with little need for water, fertilizers, or pesticides. They also provide food and shelter for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife that are essential to a healthy ecosystem.

At Kayanase, we grow and offer a wide range of native perennials and grasses that can bring both beauty and balance to your garden. Some favourites for spring include:

🌿 Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): Soft lavender blooms with a minty scent. Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

🌿 Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): A bold perennial with purple petals that bring lasting colour and support pollinators.

🌿 Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): Bright golden-yellow petals and dark centres. Thrives in full sun and adds cheerful energy to garden beds.

🌿 Eastern Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis): Unique red and yellow blooms that appear early in spring. A favourite for hummingbirds.

🌿 Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum): Tall and hardy, this native grass offers movement, winter interest, and erosion control.

🌿 Canada Anemone (Anemone canadensis): A white flowering groundcover that spreads quickly and does well in shade.

🌿 Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana): Low-growing, edible groundcover that supports pollinators, birds, and small wildlife.

Tips for Spring Planting

Native plants are low-maintenance once they’re established, but a little early effort can make all the difference.

Begin by removing any invasive species and enriching the soil with compost. When planting, try to group species with similar light and moisture needs to help them thrive together. Adding a layer of mulch will help retain moisture and keep weeds under control.

During the first few weeks, regular watering will support healthy root development. And remember—there’s no need for fertilizers or pesticides. These plants are already built for balance!

WE ARE OPEN ON MAY 17, 2025!

Did you know our garden centre and nursery are opening for the season on May 17, 2025? The Kayanase team is here to help you choose the right plants and seeds, share advice, and support your goals, whether you’re filling in a backyard space or starting something new from the ground up.

And remember…By planting native, you’re restoring more than just your garden. You’re helping rebuild habitat, support pollinators, and keep the land in balance.