At Botanically Correct, our roots run deep in Nanaimo’s rich soil. As a woman-owned landscaping company serving our vibrant Vancouver Island community, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with gardening in our coastal paradise.

The Nanaimo Advantage

Living in Nanaimo gives us a special perspective on naturalistic landscaping. From the rocky outcrops near Departure Bay to the sheltered valleys of Extension, each neighborhood presents its own microclimate. Our designs work with these local conditions, creating gardens that feel like they’ve always belonged here.

Working with Our Local Environment

Nanaimo’s Unique Climate Challenges

  • Our famous rain shadow effect means less rainfall than other coastal areas
  • Summer drought periods, particularly in areas like Hammond Bay and North Nanaimo
  • Winter wind exposure in elevated areas like College Heights
  • Varying soil conditions from rocky Departure Bay to rich Chase River valley

Native Plant Stars of Nanaimo

We love incorporating local heroes into our designs:

  • Arbutus (Arbutus menziesii) – Our iconic evergreen tree
  • Oceanspray (Holodiscus discolor) – Perfect for those dry, sunny spots
  • Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum) – Thriving in our shaded areas
  • Nootka Rose (Rosa nutkana) – Bringing fragrance and wildlife value
  • Red Flowering Currant (Ribes sanguineum) – Early spring nectar for hummingbirds

Sustainable Solutions for Local Challenges

Water Conservation

With Nanaimo’s increasing water restrictions during summer months, we design gardens that thrive with minimal irrigation. Our plant selections and soil management techniques help gardens stay beautiful even during Stage 3 water restrictions.

Deer-Resistant Design

Let’s talk about our local deer population! Instead of fighting these regular visitors, we create beautiful landscapes using plants they tend to avoid. We’ve developed extensive experience with deer-resistant plants that still provide year-round interest.

Slope Solutions

Many Nanaimo properties feature challenging slopes. Our naturalistic approach uses deep-rooted plants and strategic design to prevent erosion while creating stunning vertical gardens.

Supporting Local Wildlife

Our designs support Nanaimo’s diverse wildlife:

  • Creating habitat for native pollinators like the Western Bumble Bee
  • Supporting local bird populations, from Anna’s Hummingbirds to Purple Finches
  • Providing winter berries for varied thrush and other year-round residents

Maintenance for Our Climate

We understand Nanaimo’s unique maintenance challenges:

  • Managing winter moss growth in shaded areas
  • Dealing with our famous autumn leaf fall from Big Leaf Maples
  • Preparing gardens for our wet winters and dry summers
  • Creating four-season interest despite our climate extremes

Community Connection

As a local business, we’re proud to be part of Nanaimo’s environmental stewardship:

  • Working with local native plant nurseries
  • Participating in community education about sustainable landscaping
  • Contributing to local biodiversity initiatives
  • Supporting other women-owned businesses in our community

Our Commitment to Nanaimo

A vibrant english garden displaying colorful flower beds, lush green grass, and various trees under a sunny sky, creating a serene and picturesque outdoor space ideal for relaxation and nature enjoyment

Every garden we create at Botanically Correct is a testament to Nanaimo’s natural beauty. Whether you’re in Hammond Bay, Departure Bay, or the South End, we can help you create a sustainable, beautiful landscape that:

  • Reflects our local environment
  • Supports our native wildlife
  • Conserves water resources
  • Provides year-round beauty

Looking Forward

As Nanaimo grows and develops, the need for sustainable, naturalistic landscapes becomes increasingly important. At Botanically Correct, we’re committed to creating gardens that not only beautify our city but also contribute to its environmental resilience.

Your Nanaimo Garden

Whether you have a new build in North Nanaimo or a heritage property downtown, we can help you create a garden that honors our local environment while meeting your specific needs. Let’s work together to add another beautiful, sustainable landscape to our growing city.

Botanically Correct is a woman-owned landscaping company proudly serving Nanaimo and surrounding areas. We specialize in naturalistic landscape design that celebrates the unique beauty of our Vancouver Island home while creating sustainable, low-maintenance gardens for modern living.