🌡️ Climate and Hardiness Zone

Peterborough is situated in Hardiness Zone 5. This zone designation helps gardeners determine which plants can withstand local winter conditions. We can generally plants any plant suited to Zone 5 and under, occassionally we may try a Zone 6 plant that is in sheltered area but that is always a risk. https://planthardiness.gc.ca

🌿 Native Plant Recommendations

Incorporating native plants is beneficial as they are well-adapted to the local environment and support regional biodiversity. Here are some native species suitable for Peterborough gardens:

• Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis): A perennial with distinctive red and yellow flowers that attract hummingbirds.
• Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata): A moisture-loving plant that serves as a host for monarch butterfly caterpillars.
• Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa): Known for its bright orange flowers, this drought-tolerant plant also supports pollinators.
• Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): A hardy perennial producing vibrant yellow blooms, attracting various pollinators.
• Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): Features lavender flowers and aromatic foliage, appealing to bees and butterflies.
• White Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum): Ontario’s provincial flower, thriving in shaded woodland settings.
• Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum): This plants likes partial sun and blooms in spring to early summer, and will spread slowly from its roots in well-drained, dry to wet-mesic soils. 

These recommendations are sourced from the Peterborough Pollinators’ plant list.

https://peterboroughpollinators.com

🛒 Local Native Plant Nurseries

To obtain native plants and receive region-specific advice, consider visiting these local nurseries:

• GreenUP Ecology Park Native Plant Nursery: Offers a variety of native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. Located at 1899 Ashburnham Drive, Peterborough.
• Grow Wild! Native Plant Nursery: Specializes in native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers, grown from locally sourced seeds to ensure high survival rates.
• Peterborough Landscape Supply: Provides native species like the Erectum Trillium, ideal for shaded areas.

📚 Additional Resources

For further guidance on native plants and gardening practices in Peterborough:

• The Peterborough & Area Master Gardeners: Offers insights into native plants and gardening tips tailored to the local climate.

By selecting plants adapted to Peterborough’s climate and incorporating native species, you can create a resilient and ecologically supportive garden.