Spring Gardening Tricks That Work – Canadian Edition
By The Shannon Murree Group | Real Estate With Impact Team
#InspiringChange | Serving Barrie, Innisfil, Oro, Orillia and Beyond
Spring has officially sprung across Simcoe County, and with it comes the perfect reason to step outside and dig into your garden. As the snow melts and buds begin to bloom, now is the ideal time to refresh your outdoor space—not only to enjoy yourself but to boost your home’s curb appeal and value.
Plus, with various events and holidays, your garden can double as a source of heartfelt, homegrown gifts that are meaningful, sustainable, and beautiful.
Why Gardening in Spring Matters
A garden isn’t just a place to grow flowers—it’s an opportunity to add value to your home and create a peaceful outdoor retreat. For homeowners and investors alike, landscaping and gardens can increase property value and make a strong first impression on potential buyers.
And let’s be honest—after a long Canadian winter, who doesn’t love a reason to get outdoors?
Gift-Worthy Flowers to Grow in Your Spring Garden
Whether you’re honouring Mum with a bouquet of peonies or crafting a pollinator-friendly garden to support local bees and butterflies, here are some spring blooms worth planting:
Top Spring Flowers for Ontario and Other Cold-Climate Zones:
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Peonies – Gorgeous, low-maintenance, and return every year.
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Lavender – Fragrant and loved by pollinators.
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Hostas – Ideal for shaded areas.
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Daisies & Coneflowers – Bright, cheerful, and native-friendly.
Pro Tip: Start seeds indoors in March or early April so they’re ready to transplant after the last frost (typically mid-May in Southern Ontario). Raised garden beds warm quicker in spring and are a great option.
Choosing Plants that Thrive in Your Canadian Climate
Unlike the U.S., Canada’s growing zones differ significantly—especially between provinces. Here’s a simplified guide based on Canadian regions:
Southern Ontario (Zones 5–6):
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Ideal Plants: Black-eyed Susans, Echinacea, Lilies, Sedum.
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Tip: Watch for late frost in April. Cover young plants overnight if needed.
Atlantic Canada:
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Ideal Plants: Bleeding Heart, Foxglove, Coral Bells.
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Tip: Atlantic wind and salty air can affect delicate plants—choose wind-tolerant varieties.
Prairie Provinces:
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Ideal Plants: Daylilies, Bee Balm, Blanket Flower.
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Tip: Mulch heavily to retain soil moisture and protect against temperature swings.
British Columbia (Warmer Coastal Zones):
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Ideal Plants: Rhododendrons, Camellias, Ferns, and Dahlias.
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Tip: Focus on drainage—B.C.’s rainfall is high, and soggy roots = sad plants.
Northern Territories & Cooler Zones:
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Ideal Plants: Arctic Willow, Alpine Aster, and hardy perennials.
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Tip: Choose ultra-hardy native species and protect them from late snow or ice.
Water-Wise Gardening & Sustainability
A thriving garden doesn’t need to be a drain—on your time, budget, or water usage. Native plants naturally require less maintenance and less water, while attracting beneficial wildlife like bees, birds, and butterflies.
Canadian Gardening Sustainability Tips:
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Mulch Matters: Apply 5–7 cm of mulch to lock in moisture and reduce weeds.
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Water Early: The best time to water is early morning to prevent evaporation and mildew.
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Collect Rainwater: Use a rain barrel to capture and reuse rainfall. Check your municipality—many offer rebates or incentives.
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Pollinator Gardens: Plants like milkweed, echinacea, and bee balm support the ecosystem and look stunning.
How Your Garden Can Add Real Estate Value
If you’re planning to sell or just want to maintain your home’s appeal, investing time into your garden now pays off later. Buyers are drawn to homes that are clearly cared for—and a tidy, vibrant yard is a sign of love and effort.
Features That Attract Buyers:
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Defined garden beds with native, low-maintenance plants.
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Pollinator-friendly plants that support sustainability.
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Clean edging and fresh mulch for a tidy, professional look.
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Functional outdoor spaces—consider a seating area or patio enhancement.
In fact, a well-maintained garden can increase perceived home value by up to 20%. It’s an affordable way to add “wow” without a full renovation.
Want More Real Estate Tips with a Local Spin?
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate in Barrie, Innisfil, Oro, or Orillia—or just want your home to shine this spring—I’m here to help. Gardening is just one piece of the puzzle in building a home that reflects your lifestyle and goals. Connect to make your confidential appointment today
follow our blog at MovingSimcoe.com for more helpful homeowner tips and local insights.
Let’s make this spring your season of growth—inside and out.
– Shannon Murree | The Shannon Murree Group | Real Estate With Impact Team | RE/MAX Hallmark Chay Realty Brokerage
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