FAQ
🌿 Frequently Asked Questions
Ordering & Pickup
How do I place an order? Orders can be placed through our online store. Once your order is received, we'll contact you to confirm pickup or delivery details.
For larger plant lists, restoration projects, or custom requests, feel free to reach out directly.
Where and when can I pick up my plants? Pickup is available by appointment at:
- Aylmer Office — 63 Rue Bancroft, Gatineau (Aylmer)
- Farm Location — 9 Chemin Sixth Line, Bristol
We schedule pickups in advance to ensure your plants are prepared and ready when you arrive.
Do you offer delivery, and what are the fees? Yes. We offer local and regional delivery throughout the Ottawa–Gatineau area. Delivery fees depend on location and order size. Full details are available on our Pickup, Delivery & Shipping page.
What areas do you deliver to? We regularly deliver throughout Aylmer, Bristol, the Pontiac region, and the broader Ottawa–Gatineau area. For larger planting projects, we may deliver beyond our standard service area — just contact us.
Can I visit the nursery without placing an order first? We operate by appointment only, to ensure we can give each customer the time and attention they deserve.
📦 Shipping
Do you ship by mail? At this time, we ship select bulbs, corms, and bare-root plants only. Container-grown plants are not shipped, as transit conditions make it difficult to ensure they arrive in the healthy condition our guarantee requires.
When will postal shipping be available? We plan to expand our shipping offerings in Autumn 2026. Join our newsletter to be notified when shipping options expand.
Do you ship across Canada? When shipping expands, we intend to offer select plant material across Canada where climate and regulations allow. Availability will vary by species and season.
🌱 The Plants
What does "native" mean, and why does it matter? A native plant is one that evolved in a particular region without human introduction. Native plants support local ecosystems — including pollinators, birds, and soil life — and are adapted to regional climate conditions.
What is the difference between native and naturalized plants? Native plants evolved here. Naturalized plants were introduced from elsewhere and now grow on their own. While some naturalized plants are relatively benign, others can outcompete native species and reduce biodiversity.
Do you carry any non-native plants? We also carry a small selection of what we call "near-native" species — plants that are native to northeastern North America and have naturally established themselves in our region over time. These species integrate well into local ecosystems and complement our native offerings. Examples include Black-eyed Susans, white sagebrush, and false indigo.
We are transparent about the origin of every plant we carry. Species designations are noted in product descriptions so you can make informed choices for your site.
Where are your plants grown? Every plant we sell is grown on our farm in Bristol, QC. We do not resell plants sourced from outside suppliers. What you receive has been grown by us, in our soil, under our care.
Why does local seed sourcing matter? Most nurseries source plants from large-scale commercial growers, which often means plants with genetics drawn from across a wide geographic range. These plants may look the same but can be poorly matched to local climate, soils, and ecological relationships.
We are committed to 100% local genetic diversity. Our seed and parent material is collected from within approximately 100 km of our nursery whenever possible, then grown out on our farm. This means the plants you put in the ground carry genetics that have been shaped by this specific landscape — giving them the best possible chance of thriving and contributing meaningfully to local ecosystems.
What size are your plants sold in? Most plants are sold in various container sizes suitable for establishment and long-term growth. Specific pot sizes are listed in the product descriptions online.
Can I request a species you don't currently carry? Yes. We're always evaluating new species for future seasons. If there's something you're looking for, send us a message — we may be able to grow it in a future cycle.
Why might there be extra plants in my pot? We grow our plants in a way that reflects natural conditions. Occasionally, companion seedlings may appear in the pot. These are often native species and can be transplanted elsewhere in your garden if desired.
🌼 Plant Care & Success
How do I care for my plants after purchase? Successful establishment depends on proper planting depth, appropriate sunlight, and consistent watering during the first growing season. We provide general guidance with your purchase, and consultation services are available for site-specific advice.
Are native plants harder to establish than garden centre plants? Not necessarily — in many cases the opposite is true. Native plants are adapted to local conditions, though they may benefit from consistent watering during their first season. Once established, many native species are resilient, lower maintenance, and far more beneficial to local wildlife than conventional alternatives.
What if my plant doesn't survive? We stand by our plants. Please refer to our Plant Guarantee page for full details on our arrive-alive guarantee and installation warranty.
🌳 Services
How do I book a consultation or tour? Consultations and site visits can be booked by contacting us directly through the website. We'll confirm availability and provide pricing details based on the scope of your project.
What areas do you service for landscaping? We provide ecological landscaping services throughout Aylmer, Bristol, the Pontiac region, and the greater Ottawa–Gatineau area.
How much do consultations cost? Consultation fees vary depending on scope and travel distance. Contact us with details about your project and we'll provide a quote.
Do you offer workshops? We periodically offer workshops and educational events. Join our newsletter or follow us on social media to stay informed.
🌎 About the Nursery
What makes you different from a regular garden centre? We specialize in regionally native plants grown from locally sourced seed and parent material, all cultivated on our own farm. Our focus is ecological restoration, biodiversity, and long-term landscape resilience — not ornamental trends. Every plant we sell is traceable to a local genetic source, which is something very few nurseries in the region can say.
Do you sell to landscapers or in bulk? Yes. We work with landscapers, municipalities, and conservation groups. Bulk orders and restoration projects are welcome — please contact us to discuss availability and pricing.