Cottage Garden Inspiration: Bring Ontario’s Natural Beauty to Your Resort Cottage

September 28, 2025 Back to blog

If you’ve ever strolled through Ontario’s cottage country, you know the landscapes are breathtaking with towering pines, sparkling lakes, and plenty of wildflowers. Why not bring some of that magic to your own resort cottage garden? Whether you’ve already got a green thumb or are just starting out, creating a low-maintenance, eye-catching garden at your Great Blue Resorts cottage is easier than you think. Here’s some inspiration to help you get started.

Celebrate Native Plants 

Ontario cottage country is home to a stunning variety of native plants that thrive naturally in the region’s soil and climate. Not only are they low-maintenance, but they also support local pollinators like bees and butterflies. Consider planting:

  • Black-Eyed Susan – Bright yellow blooms that love full sun.

  • Wild Bergamot (Bee Balm) – A pollinator favourite with lavender-pink flowers.

  • Eastern ColumbineNative to woodland and rocky slopes with striking red and yellow blossoms.

  • Serviceberry Shrubs – Beautiful spring blossoms and edible berries for wildlife.

These plants blend seamlessly into the cottage-country environment, giving your garden a natural look while being easier to maintain than exotic varieties.

Bonnie Flowers

Go Low-Maintenance 

If you’re looking for a garden that looks great but doesn’t need constant care (because you’re here to relax, after all), perennials are your best friend. Some excellent low-maintenance options include:

  • Hostas for shady spots and lush greenery.

  • Daylilies for bright pops of colour and resilience.

  • Coneflowers (Echinacea) for sunny areas and pollinator appeal.

Mixing perennials with grasses or shrubs creates a natural, layered look that thrives year after year. Like the look of the resort cottage that goes along with this garden? It could be yours! Check out this cottage listing here.

32 Shamrock Marina Road

Add a Personal Touch 

Not all garden magic has to be in the ground! Hanging plants and decorative planters are a great way to add charm to decks, porches, and patios at your resort cottage. Some ideas to try:

  • Trailing Petunias or Ivy Geraniums for colourful cascades.

  • Herb Planters (like basil, mint, or rosemary) for fresh cottage-country cooking.

  • Native Fern Baskets for a lush, woodsy vibe.

These options make it easy to swap plants seasonally and experiment with different colours and textures. 44 Cherry Beach Lane has plenty of deck space to decorate with gorgeous potted plants, check it out!

44 Cherry Beach Lane

Create Your Own Cottage Oasis

A beautiful garden can transform your Great Blue Resorts cottage into a relaxing retreat that feels like an extension of Ontario’s natural beauty. Whether you focus on native plants, low-maintenance perennials, or creative planters, your garden will soon become one of your favourite places to unwind.

Ready to make your cottage garden dreams a reality? Book your stay or learn more about cottage ownership at Great Blue Resorts and start planning your perfect garden escape today.

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