The top 10 Atlantic plants

Ignore the title Plants for Atlantic Gardens. Author Jodi DeLong says almost anyone in Canada can grow the plants in her book. If you live in zone 4 to 5 or warmer, these plants should thrive in your garden—given the right soil and growing conditions.

To get you started, here are DeLong’s top picks for Atlantic (and Canadian) gardeners—five for the novice and five for the experienced gardener. Fall somewhere in between? Try something different. DeLong promises, “Step out of your comfort zone a bit and you’ll be delighted!”

For novices

Serviceberry (Amelanchier)
With flowers in the spring, edible fruit in the summer and great colour come fall, this small tree provides interest all growing season. Tolerant of wet areas, serviceberry won’t grow too tall. Birds love it. Bees love it. We think you will, too.