Image from Natural Resources Canada
Characteristics of Nunavut Planting Region
Nunavut has an Arctic climate, characterized by long, frigid winters and brief, cool summers. The growing season is extremely short—usually no more than 30 to 60 frost-free days, depending on location. However, in summer, Nunavut experiences nearly continuous daylight for weeks on end, which supports accelerated plant growth within that small window.
Soils vary widely, but many areas have thin, rocky, or permafrost-influenced ground. Southern Nunavut communities like Rankin Inlet or Arviat offer slightly more favorable conditions compared to northernmost settlements such as Resolute or Grise Fiord.
While the natural environment is harsh, many communities are increasingly exploring cold-climate agriculture and food sovereignty solutions.
Challenges of Growing in Nunavut
1. Extreme Cold and Harsh Climate
Nunavut’s Arctic environment poses one of the toughest climates for gardening in the world. Temperatures remain below freezing for most of the year, with summer arriving late and departing early. Even during peak growing months, sudden cold snaps and frost events can damage or kill plants overnight.
2. Short Growing Season
Most of Nunavut experiences only 30 to 60 frost-free days per year, making it difficult for traditional crops to fully mature. The short season requires fast-growing, cold-hardy varieties, and limits the diversity of plants that can thrive without protection.
The Benefits of Using a Greenhouse in Prince Edward Island
Greenhouses are transforming food production in Nunavut by offering a protected, controlled environment that significantly expands what's possible in this northern territory.
1. Extend your Growing Season
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Without a Greenhouse:
Outdoor growing is extremely limited—most crops must complete their entire lifecycle in 6–8 weeks.
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With a Greenhouse:
A greenhouse can extend your growing season by several months, starting as early as March or April with supplemental heat and continuing into September or October.
With careful design, greenhouses can take advantage of Nunavut’s intense summer light while buffering against frost and wind.
Greenhouse from a customer in Nunavut
2. Grow a Wider Variety of Vegetables Without a Greenhouse:
Only a small number of hardy, quick-maturing crops are suitable, including:
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Turnips Swiss Chard Spinach Radishes |
Lettuce Kale Beets Peas |
With a Greenhouse:
You gain the ability to grow a much broader selection of foods, such as:
Recommended vegetables for greenhouse growing include:
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Broccoli Brussel sprouts Cabbage Cauliflower Cucumbers Onions Leeks |
Bell Peppers Pumpkins Gourds Squash Zucchini Tomatoes Watermelon |
Cantaloupe Herbs Sweet Corn Eggplant Potatoes Carrots |
