It’s garden planning season in Manitoba, and I used to get overwhelmed by trying to grow all the flowers. Comparing my garden to others made me lose focus. Sound familiar?

Now, with my full-time remote job with a non-profit and focusing on experiential tourism offerings at the farm, I’m embracing being intentional in what I grow. It is still tempting to try to grow everything but I prioritize plants that I can use for natural dyeing. That’s why I’m focusing on growing marigold, scabiosa, coreopsis, cosmos, dyer’s chamomile, indigo, and madder.

No more flower U-picks, bridal bouquets, or CSA models for me—that’s just not my focus anymore. It took me a while to permit myself to let go of anything that didn’t give me joy. I’m not saying this is permanent either but for 2025, I’m only cultivating plants that will give me a rainbow of colours!

Before you dive into garden planning, I invite you to ask yourself why you're growing certain blooms. Your "why" will shape your "how". Share in the comments what your garden plants this year! 🌿

As to where I purchase my seeds, here are my favorite sellers:

Indigo:

Ricketts Indigo (US)

Grand Prismatic Seeds (US)

Dye Flowers:

William Dam Seeds (Canada)

West Coast Seeds (Canada)

Salt Spring Seeds (Canada)

Annapolis Seeds (Canada)

Johnny’s Seeds (US)

Ready to bloom with intention? You are in the right place. I hope to blog more this year and keep my newsletters short and sweet. Follow me on socials for photo-heavy and highlight reel content.

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Yours in Joy and Magic,

Lourdes