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Every winter the search begins. What new varieties should we try this year? Is there a new local seed company we should discover? We are sure, you have similar questions this time of year. The pure amount of seed companies out there can be overwhelming at times and we thought it was time to create a pretty sufficient list of trusted ORGANIC CANADIAN SEED COMPANIES BY PROVINCE.
But before we dive into the list, we want to talk a bit about WHY it is so beneficial to use ORGANIC & LOCAL SEEDS.
As part of a sustainable and healthy lifestyle, seeking organic and local seed sources is one practice every gardener can do. Choosing organic seeds not only supports healthy ecosystems but also enhances the resilience of plants. Local seeds are better suited to regional climates, soil conditions, and pests. This guide highlights the importance of organic, heirloom and local seed sources for Canadian gardeners and provides a detailed list of organic seed companies by province.
The Importance of Organic & Heirloom Seeds
Organic seeds are grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. This practice contributes to healthier soil ecosystems and minimizes the harmful chemical residues that can affect food safety. Research shows that organic farming can reduce soil erosion by up to 16% and increase biodiversity, which is vital for maintaining ecological balance. Soil Health is a topic that can't be stressed often enough. Everything on planet earth literally relies on this natural underground ecosystem, also called the soil food web. From a wide variety of soil microbes, to organic matter, deep healthy plant roots and the supportive mycorrhiza - we can only grow enough food, if this fragile system is in tact. Conventional agricultural practices with its heavy machinery, monoculture, intensive use of fertilizers, herbicides, fungicides and pesticides damaged our soils tremendously. By 2050 about 90% of the world's topsoil will be at risk, according the to the UN Agriculture and Food Organization, FAO. Which translates to about 60 harvests that are being left! It's more than time to take soil more seriously and make soil regeneration a priority for everyone. By choosing organically produces seeds, you support companies taking the right steps towards soil regeneration and biodiversity support. It's literally in your hands.
Another fantastic aspect of organic seeds is that they often come from heirloom varieties that have been nurtured over generations, at least 50 years. These seeds not only provide superior flavor but are also better suited for specific local growing conditions. Heirloom crops are open-pollinated which makes them genetically more divers and adaptive to environmental conditions. They exceptional taste is another argument for heirlooms. For example, heirloom tomatoes can have 20% or more flavor than typical hybrid varieties, making them a favored choice among home gardeners and chefs. Another benefit of heirloom varieties is, that the home gardener can save his or her own seeds from these plants for their own usage.
Benefits of Local Seed Sources
Sourcing seeds locally offers several advantages for any gardener. Local seeds are adapted to specific soil types and climatic conditions, which means they often need fewer resources like water. In fact, studies have shown that locally adapted plants can be 30% more efficient in water usage compared to non-local varieties.
Moreover, purchasing seeds from regional suppliers strengthens the local economy and builds community ties among growers. This not only promotes a sustainable gardening culture but also enriches the agricultural landscape across Canada. Local agricultural organizations like the Eastern Ontario Agri-Food Network EOAN play an important role in connecting and educating local growers and consumers.
Organic and Local Seed Companies by Canadian Province
This is a curated list of reputable organic seed across Canada, organized by province. It is our hope that this collection assists Canadian gardeners in finding their preferred local suppliers.
The lists do not resemble any rankings. But they all start with vegetable seed companies and end with flower and tree nurseries.
British Columbia
Norwegian Creek Farm Garlic
Helmer's Organic Farm Seed Potatoes
Across The Creek Organics Seed Potatoes
Alberta
Eagle Creek Seed Potatoes
Wild About Flowers wildflower seeds
Prairie Hardy Nursery trees
Tree Time trees
Saskatchewan
Martha's Garden Seeds
Mumm's Sprouting Seeds
Tundra's Flower Farm bulbs & flowers
Manitoba
Sage Garden Greenhouses
John Boy Farms Garlic & Cover Crops
Prairie Originals Wildflowers, Native Grasses
Lili Stone Gardens Flowers
H&H Floral Fields Flowers
Ontario
Hawthorn Farm Organic Seeds
(Matchbox Garden Seeds Co.) closed, selling leftover seeds only
Heritage Hobby Seed Ark Northern Ontario
Stokes Seeds commercial
Ellenberger Organic Farm for seed potatoes
Breck's for bulbs & perennials
Dahlia Mayflower Farm for bulbs & flowers
Silver Creek Nursery for fruits, nuts & berries
Whiffletree Farm & Nursery for fruits, nuts & berries
Quebec
Green Barn Farm for fruits, nuts, berries
Hardy Fruit Tree Nursery for fruits , nuts, berries
Mount Royal Seeds for trees & shrubs
Atlantic Canada
New Brunswick
Rainbow Seeds
Corn Hill Nursery for perennials
Nova Scotia
Prince Edward Island
Newfoundland
More seed companies of the Atlantic Canada might be found here: Local Seed | ACORN and www.seedsecurity.ca
US Seed Companies that ship to Canada
High Mowing Seeds (VT)
American Meadows (VT)
MI Gardener (MI)
Hazzard's Seeds (MI)
Epic Gardening (CO)
In Conclusion: Cultivating a Greener Future
Choosing organic and locally sourced seeds allows Canadian gardeners to contribute positively to environmental health, support local economies, and foster community resilience. These practices encourage a gardening culture that prioritizes regenerative practices and biodiversity while staying true to local ecosystems.
Each province features exceptional seed companies, providing access to diverse, unique and high-quality seeds adapted to local climates. Whether you live in British Columbia or Newfoundland, there is a local seed company near you ready to support your gardening journey.
As you plan your garden this season, consider choosing seeds from the outstanding organic companies listed above. By doing so, you support a sustainable, locally-driven gardening community across Canada.
More Canadian seed companies might be found here: Canadian Seed Companies Map – Seeds of Diversity
If you know of any other organic seed company across Canada we have not listed yet, please feel free to add it in the comments. Every additional seed source matters to grow the network of organic growers and environmentally conscious gardeners. Because we are all responsible for our planet.
Happy gardening!
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