After more than 70 years of growing quality plants, trees and shrubs for the community, Canadale Nurseries announced this morning (Thursday) they have begun the process of winding down the Sunset Drive business.
An operation the Intven family has built on strong relationships, exceptional plants and enduring partnerships.
President Tom Intven stressed it was not an easy decision.
Intven added Canadale will close at the end of the 2027 gardening season, bringing the Canadale story to a close.
A story that began on the site of what is now Parkside Collegiate Institute, notes Intven.
Canadale was founded by Bill (pictured below) and Joan Intven with a mission to “serve customers with honesty and warmth, and grow only quality plants.”
Asked if thought had been given to selling Canadale to an interested operator, Intven stressed it just was not feasible.
The entire Intven family points to the loyalty of their legions of customers who “helped transform Canadale from a small family nursery into a cherished local institution,” praised Intven.
In a media release, Pauline Intven-Casier paid tribute to the Canadale staff over the seven decades.
“Thier passion, knowledge and hard work created the welcoming atmosphere our customers came to expect.”
A tradition that will continue over the coming two years, assured Tom Intven.
Canadale has long been valued for its contributions to local organizations and charities and that, too, will continue through to the spring of 2027.
As to the new owners of the property, the Intven family are excited that “they have a vision for the land that will build on the legacy that Canadale has created. It’s not our story to tell, so we’ll simply say that we selected them because they are local, have a strong sense of community, and are dedicated to continuously improving St. Thomas.”
Written by Ian McCallum
