At Whaleback Nursery, we primarily grow plants that are native to or thrive in southern Maine. Many of our plants are edible or medicinal and all of them spend their lives growing strong, healthy roots in rich, living soil. We partner with our neighbors and farming friends to source wood chips, compost, and other materials to continuously build our soil. Almost every plant braves at least one winter outside, helping ensure that they are Zone 5 Hardy. 

Our nursery beds are planted dense and wild, with flowers, shrubs, trees and more all growing on top of one another. Some plants fix nitrogen, some host fungi, most attract pollinators, and we are always adding more. Nearly all our plants thrive in these conditions as they can support each other's nutritional, water, and physical requirements. 

In the Spring and Fall we carefully dig into our beds, unearthing plants when they are most robust and ready to be transplanted.

The need for native trees, shrubs, and perennials is greater than ever. Climate change, industrial agriculture, and the spread of invasive species are causing environmental and societal havoc. However, the plants that we grow have evolved to enrich the soils, absorb floods, stabilize temperatures, and feed humans and animals alike. By planting native species in your gardens, fields, or even windowsills, you can grow your own food and help our planet.