Local seeds matter.

Plants grown from seed collected nearby carry genetic adaptations shaped by local soils, climate patterns, pests, and pollinators.

Local genotypes are stronger, more resilient, and better suited to thrive in the specific conditions of Grey and Bruce counties. A plant’s genotype is the specific set of inherited genes that determines its potential for growth, form, colour, and resistance to disease.

When using seed sourced from far away, even if the species is technically “native,” those plants may not perform as well or meet the needs of local wildlife. Local adaptation influences everything from drought tolerance to bloom time.

Bloom time is important because pollinators, birds, and other wildlife have co-evolved with these plants, often relying on them as key food sources.

There will be several mixes of seed for different Grey Bruce ecotypes, such as wet, dry, pollinator specific, forage, alvar, specialist mixes, and short grass prairie mixes. Currently available species include Heath Aster, New England Aster, Grass-leaved Goldenrod, Upland White Goldenrod, Gray Goldenrod, Wild Calamint, and Large-leaf Aster.

If you are interested in supporting the Grey Bruce Native Seed Bank in restoring habitat and investing in the long-term health and resilience of the place we call home, we invite you to get involved. Volunteers gather bi-weekly from May through October.