Create a garden worth bragging about

A massive red rose blossoms in this file image. (Ken Gabel/CTV News)

It’s time to learn or teach a newbie about gardening.

Barrie Public Library invites residents to grow their gardening knowledge and celebrate the spring season with a special Mini Garden Expo and the official launch of its Seed Library.

Spring is blooming, and there’s no better time to get your garden started. Community members are encouraged to join us for expert tips, hands-on learning, and connections with local gardening groups as we help kick off the growing season.

“The Garden Expo is about making gardening accessible, welcoming, and fun for everyone,” said Luke McKee, Barrie Public Library’s manager of community engagement. “Whether you’re a first-time gardener or have years of experience, there’s something here for you, and a whole community ready to support you.”

Garden Expo – May 2, 2026 (1:30–3:30 p.m.)Visit the downtown location for a Garden Expo featuring local experts and community gardening organizations sharing advice, inspiration, and practical tips to get your garden growing.

Seed Library Launch – May 2, 2026Barrie Public Library’s Seed Library opens for the season on May 2. The Seed Library is a collection of seeds, including native plants available to all, running until the end of June or while supplies last. Residents can stop by any library location to pick up seeds and get started on their gardens.

“The Seed Library is about more than just gardening; it’s a practical way to foster sustainability and lifelong learning in Barrie,” said Lauren Jessop, CEO of Barrie Public Library. “We want to help residents of all ages build a hands-on connection with their environment and experience the satisfaction of growing their own food and flowers.”

Got extra seeds? We want them! Community members are invited to donate extra seeds – whether purchased or harvested in 2025 – by dropping them off at any library location. These contributions will help grow this year’s Seed Library and support community gardening.

Spring Cleaning? Recycle Your E-Waste Now’s the perfect time to gather up your old electronics and keep them out of the landfill. Recycle your e-waste and help fund Living Green Barrie’s 10,000 Trees Program.

As a thank you, when you drop off your e-waste, you can take home a baby tree for planting.

Throughout the season, visitors can also borrow Gardening Kits for adults and children through the Library of Things, making it easy to explore gardening without the upfront cost.

Participants can also learn from a range of local experts and organizations, including:

• Simcoe County Master Gardeners presenting Invasive Plants: Everything You Want to Know, But Were Afraid to Ask.
• Moondance Organic Gardens With Get Growing.
• City of Barrie sharing PaRX (Nature) is for you

Additional community partners – including Pollinate Barrie, Painswick Garden Club and the Oro-Medonte Horticultural Society will be onsite to answer questions and support local gardeners.