Though spring may be on the horizon, winter still holds its grip on Sault Ste. Marie. As we dream of the growing season ahead, it's important to reflect on where we source our plants and gardening supplies. In today’s shifting geopolitical climate, supporting Canadian businesses has never been more critical. With increasing economic pressures from the U.S. and global supply chain disruptions, ensuring a strong, self-sufficient local economy is essential. While big-box stores and online giants may tempt us with convenience, shopping local offers unmatched benefits—not just for our gardens, but for our community, environment, and the future of Canadian agriculture.
Quality Over Quantity
It’s tempting to grab a discounted plant from a national retailer, but how many times have we brought home a struggling specimen only to watch it wither despite our best efforts? Many mass-produced plants are grown in distant greenhouses under controlled conditions, then transported long distances, often leaving them stressed and less resilient upon arrival. In contrast, local garden centres prioritize quality over volume.
At New North, over 95% of our cuttings, seeds, and bulbs come from Canadian companies. Our plants are nurtured in our 70,000 sq. ft. of greenhouses right here in Sault Ste. Marie, meaning they are already acclimated to our climate. When you buy from us, you’re not just getting a plant—you’re getting one that’s been raised with care, primed for success in Northern Ontario’s growing conditions. We’re also excited to announce that we will be cutting back on prices this year to ensure everyone can make the most of their budgets while supporting our local partners and Canadian distributors.
Community Impact: Strengthening Local Economies
When you shop at a locally owned garden centre, your money stays in the community, fostering economic growth and stability. Studies show that for every dollar spent at a small business, significantly more of that money recirculates within the local economy compared to purchases at national chains.
Your purchases support jobs, from greenhouse staff and plant specialists to delivery drivers and local suppliers. Beyond direct employment, local businesses contribute to a thriving regional economy by sourcing materials and services from nearby companies. Choosing local isn't just about buying a plant—it’s about strengthening the foundation of our community for generations to come.
Environmental Stewardship: Reducing Our Footprint
Gardeners inherently care about the environment, and shopping local aligns with those values. Plants shipped across long distances contribute to unnecessary carbon emissions through transportation, and many imported plants are treated with chemicals to meet export regulations.
Buying locally grown plants reduces the need for excessive shipping, leading to a smaller carbon footprint. Additionally, locally grown plants are better adapted to our climate, requiring less water, fertilizer, and pesticide use compared to their mass-produced counterparts. Supporting local means gardening in a way that’s better for the planet.
Expertise and Personalized Service
Unlike the impersonal experience of navigating the aisles of a big-box store, local garden centres offer the invaluable benefit of expertise. Our team members aren’t just employees; they’re passionate plant enthusiasts who understand the unique challenges and opportunities of gardening in Sault Ste. Marie. We take pride in offering tailored recommendations, troubleshooting plant problems, and helping you choose the right plants for your garden’s specific conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, personalized advice can make all the difference in achieving a flourishing garden.
A Commitment to Canadian Gardening
At New North, we are committed to providing high-quality plants and products that support local businesses, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to a thriving gardening community. We take pride in our Canadian roots and in helping our customers create beautiful, sustainable gardens with plants that are meant to thrive in our northern climate.
This gardening season, let’s make conscious choices that go beyond just planting flowers. By supporting local, we’re investing in quality, strengthening our local economy, promoting environmental responsibility, and reinforcing Canadian agricultural self-sufficiency.
Together, we can cultivate not just beautiful gardens but also a resilient, vibrant future for our community and our country. Let’s grow local!
