Winnipeg garden centres are scaling back on seasonal staff this year as demand for planting remains sluggish, according to local business owners. At St-Léon Gardens, customers trickled in on Tuesday afternoon, but ownership noted that the usual spring rush has been notably absent.
Slow Season for Garden Centres
The garden centre, which typically hires extra help for the busy planting season, has reduced its workforce due to lower customer traffic. Plants on display on May 12, 2026, showed a variety of options, yet sales have not met expectations.
Industry observers attribute the slowdown to economic factors and changing consumer habits. Some suggest that unpredictable weather and rising costs may be deterring gardeners from making early purchases.
Impact on Local Businesses
St-Léon Gardens is not alone; several other Winnipeg nurseries have reported similar trends. The reduction in seasonal employment affects students and temporary workers who rely on these jobs during the spring and summer months.
Despite the challenges, garden centres remain hopeful that demand will pick up as the season progresses. They are adjusting inventory and marketing strategies to attract customers.
For now, the slow start serves as a cautionary tale for the retail horticulture sector in the region.
