In Muskoka, the shoreline is where everything comes together. It’s the meeting point of land and water—a dynamic, living edge that plays a critical role in the health of your property and the lake ...
About
Hidden Habitat is an ecological landscaping company rooted in biodiversity and integrity. We grow Ontario seed-sourced plants, offering native grasses, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees. Our landscaping and planting services are designed to restore habitat and reconnect people with nature. Every project reflects our commitment to ecological health—creating resilient, beautiful spaces that thrive for generations. Hidden Habitat services the Muskoka, Midland, Orillia & Barrie area of central Ontario.
Native Plant Nursery
Hidden Habitat specializes in growing Ontario native grasses, ferns, wildflowers, shrubs, and trees. Every plant is grown from ethically sourced, wild-type seed and cultivated in Muskoka. This ensures genetic integrity, ecological resilience, and a true connection to the land. Whether you’re restoring habitat, supporting pollinators, or creating a low-maintenance garden, our plants are ready to thrive where they belong.
Ontario Sourced Seed
Our native plant seeds are ethically sourced from wild populations and carefully tended seed orchards. All of our seeds are harvested sustainably to protect local ecosystems and preserve genetic diversity. By choosing our seeds, you’re planting species that are well adapted to Ontario’s landscapes—ideal for restoration, pollinator support, and resilient native gardens.
Ecological Landscaping
We design landscapes that are ecologically resilient, biodiverse, and visually compelling for residential and commercial clients. We create outdoor spaces that support native ecosystems and reflect each client’s vision. Whether it’s an urban home, rural farmhouse, or waterfront cottage, our work integrates people and place to enhance ecological health and natural beauty.
Laura Thomas, a graduate of the University of Waterloo’s Environment and Resource Studies program has worked in the landscape industry for over fifteen years; blending her passion for conservation and landscape design. Laura saw the need for better, sustainable land management practices especially within the realm of private land owners. Merging the elements of good landscape design with the practices of restoration ecology seemed both obvious and necessary given the fragmentation and destruction of landscapes today. However, while working in the landscape industry she found that often people felt they had to compromise beauty for conservation. Given her expertise in ecology, native plants and landscape design she knew that one could still have the simplicity and impact of a modern garden while providing food and shelter for local wildlife. Her unique and thoughtful designs demonstrate that healthy landscapes can be beautiful landscapes.
Our work in the community
As an enthusiastic environmentalist, Laura likes to help out and share her enthusiasm and expertise with local environmental groups. As a Director with the Muskoka Conservancy, she is able to further her passion for nature conservation in Muskoka and enjoys leading the occasional Nature Quest in one of the Muskoka Conservancy’s beautiful nature reserves. Laura also serves as a Director with the Ontario Native Plant Growers Association and is a member of Native Seed Producers of Canada
Laura also enjoys supporting not-for-profit groups through plant donations, and knowledge sharing. Laura’s previous community work includes hosting In the Dirt on Hunters Bay Radio and being the event coordinator for the Muskoka Earth Festival.
