Cottage Gardeners are folks looking to plant low-maintenance selections at their vacation property or second home. Perhaps you have a place along the temperate shores of Lake Erie or a cabin in a cooler, northern region.
Cottage Cuisine involves hardy, low-maintenance selections that shouldn't require more frequent care than can be provided when you visit on the weekends. We recommend perennial selections because annuals dry out quickly.
Climate and growing zones matter when planting your cottage cuisine because fewer plants survive winter as you travel north. On the other hand, lakefront property in southwestern Ontario can be home to warmer, but windy climates.
Most of the plants we sell are hardy to USDA Zone 5, which covers most of southwestern Ontario. We know you might have a bit of a drive to your cottage, so we recommend confirming your growing zone there before choosing your plants.
Your zone at home might not be the same as at your cottage. Fewer fruit trees and shrubs grow in cooler climates, which is why it's important to make the right choices.
Most of our plants that feed people are hardy enough to survive winter in southwestern Ontario. When building your cottage cuisine, we recommend choosing low maintenance perennial selections that won't require more frequent care than can be done on a weekend visit. After all, you're at the cottage to relax!
Once established, fruit trees can hold their own during the summer months without regular waterings.
Grapes thrive in rocky and sandy soils, so a lakefront climate is perfect for planting a few vines.
Did you pick berries in cottage country as a kid? Enjoy some nostalgia and a fresh seasonal snack in peak summer because most ripen in July and August.
Most of Ontario's cottage country, all the way north to Thunder Bay, falls within Zone 4 and there are still plenty of options for perennial plants that still produce fruit despite the shorter growing season. Just remember that what tastes good to us also tastes good to the local wildlife, so keep this in mind when laying out your garden!
Many apple varieties, Summercrisp Pear, Reliance Peach, and tart cherry trees are hardy enough to withstand winter in cottage country!
Onions, garlic, and potatoes are easy to grow and prefer cooler climates.
A cottage classic enjoyed by generations. Truly a great addition to your family's vacation retreat. Many varieties of blueberries and other favourites tolerate cooler climates.
Yes, for real! Arctic varieties produce fruit in northern climates.
Above pricing reflects the most economical choice within a particular type of fruit. Pricing may vary based on size, variety, and availability and is subject to change. Consult the online catalogue for current availability and pricing. Applicable taxes extra.
We've created a series of helpful pages to guide you through the gardening a la carte process from planning to planting.
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