- The Friends of Government House Gardens Society

Who We Are

The Friends of Government House Gardens Society preserve, improve, and enhance Government House grounds and gardens for the enjoyment of the public. It does so in cooperation with the Lieutenant Governor and the Province of British Columbia

We are a volunteer organization of nearly 300 active members who contribute maintain the 21 gardens, and Garry Oak woodland, within the 36 acres surrounding Government House. The Friends recently celebrated 30 years of ensuring that the gardens and grounds remain a treasured place and a welcoming urban oasis for British Columbia’s residents and visitors.

Join Us As We Care For
Government House Gardens

What We Do

The gardens of Government House are maintained by volunteers who work primarily from March to November. Some may work year-round, depending on the garden and the weather. Gardeners work either (or both) Tuesday and Thursday morning and may start at any time of the year, although most join in the spring.

To see the many benefits of becoming a member, click on our membership page here! We welcome all volunteers! No gardening skills required.

Final adjustments to Thanksgiving bouquets.

Brian and Jean Claude wrestling the reluctant pot from its banana contents.

Terracites Sally, Claire, Kathryn, and Patty do a major clean up .

Admiring the results of the attention – a profusion of roses.

Here is just a sample of our dedicated volunteer projects.

Mary harvests the bumper bean crop.

Brian taking a rare break.

Cole ready to prune the English laurel.

Leslie, proud of her hard day’s work.

Jan, a 30-year volunteer says, “I come and garden every Tuesday for the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts, to learn about plants, and to help keep this wonderful property for everyone to enjoy.”