Cultivating Canadian Gardens

The National Library of Canada presents an online exhibit entitled "Cultivating Canadian Gardens: The History of Gardening in Canada." The exhibit covers the development of gardening in Canada from the 17th century through the end of the 20th century.

The key to a carefree garden is to know which plants will thrive under local conditions and which ones are better left at the nursery. With watering restrictions becoming increasingly common, and rising concerns about exotic invasive species, gardeners have to be savvy about plant selection, making native plants both a practical and ecological choice. Lorraine Johnson's 100 Easy-to-Grow Native Plants for Canadian Gardens is the ultimate source for achieving a lush and stunning garden with ease. Whatever the conditions—sunny, shady or in-between—and whatever your style—formal, informal or a mix—there are native plants to help you achieve your gardening goals. Either add to your garden or start fresh with the help of this reader-friendly guide. With Lorraine Johnson's light humour and down-to-earth perspective, as well as lavish photos by Andrew Leyerle, this is a must-have gardening resource for everything Canadian gardeners need to know about native plants. Horticultural information includes height, blooming period, light requirements and moisture needs, as well as a comprehensive reference chart that provides a list of the most appropriate plants for various conditions at a glance. This perennial favourite of Canadian gardeners is now back in print with a revised introduction, updated botanical names, new information on how to support native pollinators as well as an updated section on native plant societies.

Gardening Basics For Canadians For Dummies has been revised to help the beginner gardener get started, providing all the information you'll need on flowers beds and borders, trees, shrubs, and lawns to landscape your property. It also includes step-by-step plans for organic and edible gardens, specific regional gardens, and butterfly and children's gardens. The book gives helpful tips controlling pests safely, managing weeds, and correcting common gardening problems. In addition, Gardening Basics For Canadians For Dummies also covers all the new tools and additives available to make gardening easier. With information about what plants grow best in our country's diverse regions, and helpful Canadian resources that help readers find everything they need to get gardening, this book is essential reading for any Canadian with a green thumb.

Vegetable gardening in Canada is made easier with gardening expert Douglas Green’s simple, commonsense approach. With his sense of humor and encouraging voice, Doug shows you all the insider how-to and when-to information; helpful planting, harvesting, and organic problem-solving tips; and advice on growing vegetables in limited space. Doug’s personal recommendations of more than 50 proven vegetables and herbs make this the must-have resource for anyone interested in growing vegetables in Canada. You’ll learn to grow healthy, abundant asparagus, broccoli, cucumber, kale, lettuce, pepper, summer squash, tomato, watermelon, winter squash, arugula, chives, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and much more. Find within: Full-color photos Canadian zone maps and what they mean Tips for extending the growing season Advice on compost and improving soil quality How and when to water Container gardening tips Dealing with common Canadian pests, like deer and raccoons Shade gardening tricks Timing charts for sowing and harvesting With the Guide to Canadian Vegetable Gardening, you will be on your way to eating healthier, saving money, and having fun doing it!

Explore the field of garden history with Early Canadian Gardening, an indispensable guide to horticulture and gardening practices in Upper Canada in the early nineteenth century. The book provides detailed descriptions of plants and seeds available at the time (many of which have evolved dramatically over the last 150 years) and examines not only which plants were grown at the time but also their value to pioneer gardeners and early settlers.