WWF-Canada’s Native Plant Program: Get These Plants For Your Garden and Support Wildlife

As spring unfurls its vibrant colours and warm breezes, gardeners across Ontario and Quebec have a unique opportunity to blend beauty with environmental stewardship through the cultivation of native plants.

Thanks to a partnership between WWF-Canada and Loblaw Companies Ltd., native plants are now available at 142 garden centres across the two provinces.

The plants, clearly marked with a WWF panda tag, are more than just eye-catching. They’re grown by Canadian producers from local, ethically collected seeds, and come without the heavy chemical use that often accompanies ornamental gardening. This initiative focuses on native species that are well-suited to local conditions, making them more resilient, less dependent on maintenance, and better able to support regional ecosystems.

Unlike cultivars or imported ornamental plants, these native species play a critical role in restoring natural habitats. Their deep connection to the region means they provide food and shelter for native birds, pollinators like bees and butterflies, and even mammals. And because they’re typically perennial, gardeners can enjoy their presence season after season without needing constant replanting.

WWF-Canada emphasizes that the environmental benefits don’t end at the garden gate. These plants help create healthier soil, improve water quality, and contribute to landscapes more resistant to the effects of climate change. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or just a few containers on a balcony, planting native species can make a tangible difference.

In addition to making native plants more accessible, WWF-Canada is encouraging gardeners nationwide to take their efforts a step further by joining the re:grow program. The online platform provides growing guides and expert tips for native gardening, and also allows users to track how their efforts contribute to biodiversity and climate action. There’s even an incentive: participants are entered for a chance to win prizes.

With native plants now easier to find and grow, this season offers a chance for gardeners to do more than just garden — they can help rebuild the natural world, one plant at a time.