All about Gardener Nation

☎️ Landline: 705-724-5050

Hours June 7 - September 28, 2025:

• Thursday: 9:00 to 8:00 
• Friday: 9:00 to 6:00
• Saturday, Sunday: 9:00 to 4:00

Gardener Nation Perennials:
On Ruth Lake ⛱
494 Swalwell Drive,  Powassan, ON

🛒 Please shop local. 

Who are we, and what makes Gardener Nation unique?

My name is Tracy White Giesler. As a self-taught gardener with 30 years of experience, I've honed my craft by studying the works of horticultural giants like Beth Chatto, Christopher Lloyd, Lawrence Johnston, Gertrude Jekyll, and Piet Oudolf.

Their wisdom has shaped my approach to creating thriving, sustainable gardens that work in harmony with nature. Beth Chatto's mantra, "right plant, right place," is the cornerstone of my gardening philosophy.

By carefully selecting perennials that are perfectly suited to the natural conditions of my property, I ensure a garden that not only survives but flourishes with minimal intervention. My method goes beyond mere aesthetics. After the initial planting and establishment period, I encourage plants to rely solely on natural rainfall, eliminating the need for wasteful supplemental watering. This approach not only conserves resources but also cultivates stronger, more resilient plants. I'm a firm believer in nourishing the soil, not just the plants. Annual applications of appropriate organic matter create a rich, living ecosystem beneath the surface, fostering healthy plant growth and natural pest resistance.

I challenge the conventional notion of "weeds," instead promoting biodiversity by allowing native plants to coexist with carefully chosen cultivars from around the world. This approach not only creates visually stunning landscapes but also supports local ecosystems and wildlife.

But my passion extends beyond my own garden. I'm on a fun mission to help homeowners transform their resource-hungry lawns into beautiful, low-maintenance perennial landscapes. For the past 70 years, traditional lawns have been an environmental catastrophe, depleting water resources and supporting little biodiversity. By replacing them with thoughtfully chosen perennials, we can create a monumental positive impact on our local ecosystems.

Imagine neighborhoods buzzing with life, where once-sterile lawns now support a diverse array of pollinators and wildlife. Picture homeowners reclaiming their weekends from the endless cycle of mowing and watering, instead enjoying the ever-changing beauty of a perennial garden.

Join me to create a Gardener Nation. Together, we can create stunning, environmentally responsible landscapes that not only enhance our homes but also contribute to the health of our planet. It's time to ditch the lawn and embrace the beauty and benefits of perennial gardening. Your yard – and Mother Nature – will thank you.

UNMATCHED CUSTOMER SERVICE at our home on Ruth Lake:

Say goodbye to endless wandering through crowded nurseries and hello to a relaxing, personalized shopping adventure. You will be seated overlooking Ruth Lake and while sipping a refreshing beverage, you will handpick your dream garden from our stunning look-book of locally grown perennials Our expert team, will gather your chosen plants while you unwind in style. It's that easy! 😎

Where are your plants grown?

All of our plants are grown on site, so you know that the plants are hardened off to the natural weather conditions in the Powassan area and are hearty for Zone 4.

Are all of your plants grown from seed?

All of our plants are grown from seed except for our hosta selection which came to us as bareroots and lilies that we started from bulbs.

Products and Plant Information

What types of perennial plants do you offer?

We have over 400 varieties of Zone 4 perennials. We strive to provide a succession of seasonal varieties that will start blooming in May with flowers still in bloom in October. 

Are your plants organic or grown without pesticides?

The only fertilizer we use on our plants is fish liquid that we develop on site from our home caught fish.

How do I know which plants are suitable for my climate?

We only grow Zone 4 perennials and we source our seeds from all over the world to ensure that we have unique and unusual varieties as well as Northern Ontario Natives.

Do you offer advice on plant care and maintenance?

Just ask and we will help! You can also attend one of our educational seminars that we offer throughout the year.

What does "perennial" mean, and how is it different from annuals?

Perennial plants are those that live for more than two years, returning each growing season after a period of dormancy, while annual plants complete their entire life cycle—growing, blooming, producing seeds, and dying—within a single year. Perennials, such as lavender and peonies, are a long-term investment that regrow each year, providing structure and consistency to a garden. In contrast, annuals like marigolds and sunflowers need to be replanted annually but offer vibrant, continuous blooms for one season, making them ideal for seasonal displays. Many gardeners use a mix of both to create diverse and dynamic landscapes.

Ordering and Shipping

How can I place an order online?

Just go here, select the plants you want, put them in your shopping cart and pay with a credit card like you would any other online shop. Delivery is free for orders over $200. Less than that, we can provide a quote. We welcome onsite pickups if you want to come and check out our onsite gardens.

Do you have a minimum order amount?

There is no minimum order, except if you want to take advantage of Free Delivery. In that case, you order must be at least $200.

What are your payment methods?

Online, you can pay with a variety of methods offered by Shopify. If you shop at our location, we prefer cash but can accept e-transfer or credit cards.

Is delivery really free for orders over $200?

Yes!

How long does it take to process and ship an order?

We can normally have your order ready in 24 hours. We will send you a notification as soon as your order is ready. However, if you choose for us to deliver, we will contact you to arrange a time that you can receive the plants. 

Can I track my order?

We will be in contact with you by phone to ensure that both of us are clear as to when you will pick up or when we will drop off. We will only drop off, if someone is there to accept the order in person.

Do you ship nationwide or only to specific locations?

We only ship to Powassan and a 60 km radius.

Delivery and Returns

What happens if my plants arrive damaged?

We will only deliver plants to you personally, so you can check them over while we are in attendance. We will only pack perfect plants to bring to you.

Can I return or exchange plants if I’m not satisfied?

We will accept exchanges if you personally return the plant and it is alive and healthy.

What is your refund policy?

If you buy plants at our location or accept delivery of the plants, we do not offer a refund if they die in your care. If you follow the planting instructions and continue to water them at appropriate intervals during their first season, the plants will be fine.

Gardening Support

Do you offer planting tips or resources for beginners?

We offer educational seminars throughout the year to help gardeners of all levels to enjoy gardening success.

Can I contact someone for advice after my plants arrive?

We are available over Email Tracy or phone during business hours to help with any of your questions.

Discounts and Promotions

Do you offer discounts for bulk or wholesale orders?

Contact us with your requirements and we can make a deal.

Are there any promotions or seasonal sales I should know about?

We will offer promotions and sales throughout the year so check our website and Facebook page regularly or sign-up to our email list so you don't miss out.

How do I qualify for free delivery?

Place an order over $200 and you will get your order delivered for free.

Customer Support
How can I contact Gardener Nation if I have a question or issue?

Email Tracy or Landline (DO NOT TEXT) phone 1-705-724-5050. We do not have cell service where we are located.

What are your location hours?

☎️ Landline: 705-724-5050

Hours May 31 - October 13 2025:

• Thursday: 9:00 to 8:00 
• Friday: 9:00 to 6:00
• Saturday, Sunday: 9:00 to 4:00

Gardener Nation Perennials:
On Ruth Lake ⛱
494 Swalwell Drive,  Powassan, ON

🛒 Please shop local. 

Do you have a newsletter for updates and gardening tips?

Check out our library section for gardening information to make your neighbors jealous.