Project 2: 2026, York University’s Native Plant Gardens

Location: HNES building, 4700 Keele St. Toronto, M3J 1P3 – February 11, 2026

York University has a remarkable garden at the Health, nursing and environmental studies (HNES) building and those who have followed this blog know that is where I first was introduced to the impact and importance of native plants. Last year, in a conversation with Phyllis, the director of the Maloca and native plant gardens at the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change (EUC), I offered the help of Underhill Seedsitters to build community knowledge through workshops and gardening activities, and I am delighted to say that on February 11, 2026, we held the first seed-cleaning and winter-sowing workshop at EUC. There were attendees from all over York University.

Before the workshop, Sayeh worked with Maloca volunteers to create small kits containing pots, soil and chicken-wire to hand out to participants

USS provided our own seed-packs of varieties not currently growing in the native plant garden as well as handouts and biodiversity booklets generously donated by City of Toronto’s Parks & Forestry

USS volunteers showed up to support and facilitate the workshop. (L-R:) Phyllis, Karanne, Sheri, Luna, Marjan, Anthony, Pat, Sayeh, Sarah and Mina.

In honor of the late EUC professor and renown bumblebee specialist, our opening talk included a section by USS member Anthony, who spoke about the life cycle and importance of pollinators, specifically bumblebees

seeds were packed for EUC’s seed library and for participants to take home

Our workshop concluded with communal winter-sowing of new varieties for the many gardens at York University.

Everyone gathered around the table as they used the pre-packaged seeds to sow them in pots that were then carried out and place in the native plant garden.

Two weeks later, the snow has melted but the pots are there, exposed to the elements as the seeds slowly begin to wake up.

In about 6 weeks the pots will be taken into a bright, sunny location to encourage germination and USS volunteers will return to lead workshops on potting up. We will also be working closely to define pathways, group plants and develop an overall manual to ensure the long-term care and maintenance of this garden.