We welcome all garden activity volunteers!
Gardening
Government House grounds consist of a number of different gardens, each of which is maintained by a group of volunteers who work primarily from March to November. Some may work year round, depending on the garden, and the weather. Volunteers work either, or both, Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Gardeners may start at any time of the year, most join in the spring. We supply all the major tools, but volunteers often bring their own small hand tools. Expert gardening experience is not required. Contact newvolunteers@fghgs.ca.
Non-Gardening
Non-gardening volunteers are involved in: the Friends or Government House archives, both garden and in-House floral design, library, membership, coat check, and the website. Members also volunteer in seasonal (May to September) activities such as the Costume Museum, Rudi’s Tea Room, and as Cary Castle Mews greeters. If you would like more information, please contact nongardeningdirector@fghgs.ca
How Their Garden Grows:
With Pretty Flowers Mostly in Rows
The floral arrangers garden was originally started to provide flowers to decorate Government House for special events. While this tradition continues, it also provides foliage and flowers for decorating the Mews during the summer and for 18 weeks of bouquets to raise funds for the Friends.
Pre-sold arrangements for Mother’s Day and Thanksgiving start and end the season. The volunteers are not only gardeners, but also used their creative abilities to assemble more than 1,000 arrangements last year. Harvesting and assembling the blooms is an extra task, along with caring for a vast selection of shrubs, perennials, and annuals.
Use the form below to become a member or renew your membership. Please note: all memberships expire on March 31 each year. You have the option to pay via eTransfer or by cheque.
Members aged 85 years and older, who volunteer with The Friends of Government House Gardens Society, will have reduced insurance coverage provided to them by Government House.