Native plants are the best sources of nectar and pollen for native bees, and are host plants for many butterfly caterpillars. They’ve evolved together to be a perfect match.
To keep plant costs down, I grow many of my native plants from seed. I do also buy native plants, but they aren’t easy to find in conventional nurseries or big box garden centres. I’ve included a list of where to buy native plants in the Ottawa area, and what you need to know before you visit.