October 3, 2026 Session: Harvesting and Storing Your Native Plant Seeds
Discover the different types of seeds that develop in your garden and learn how to harvest and store them for future planting. Participants will also learn how to support nature through the fall and winter months and which common garden clean-up practices should be avoided.
October Session 1: What are Native Plants & Habitat Gardening?
Welcome to the Ottawa Wildflower Seed Library (OWSL) Presents... 5-part workshop series! During this workshop, participants will learn how to support pollinators, birds, and other local wildlife through habitat gardening. We will discuss why native species are crucial to local ecosystems and how to identify and remove invasive species.
November Session 2: Planning Your Pollinator/Habitat Garden
Continuing from Session 1, participants will explore the factors to consider when selecting native plants and designing a pollinator-friendly habitat garden. Please bring a sketch of your project site. All other materials will be provided, including reference materials, examples, and a selection of native seeds.
January Session 3: Winter Seed Sowing Workshop for Your Pollinator/Wildlife Garden
Learn how to grow native plants from seed and discover why many native species benefit from spending the winter outdoors. Participants are encouraged to bring their project site plan if available. All materials will be provided to take home, including starter pots, soil, and a selection of native seeds.
April Session 4: Spring Gently into Gardening
Learn the truths and myths of preparing your garden for spring. This workshop covers the lifecycle of pollinators, birds, and other wildlife, what to trim and what to leave undisturbed, how to identify genuine native plants at nurseries, and tips for transplanting seedlings and caring for them through the growing season. Demonstrations and sample seeds or seedlings will be provided.
September Session 5: Harvesting and Storing Your Native Plant Seeds
Discover the different types of seeds that develop in your garden and learn how to harvest and store them for future planting. Participants will also learn how to support nature through the fall and winter months and which common garden clean-up practices should be avoided.