Nestled in the heart of Georgetown, Ont., is a unique garden that allows visitors to experience nature through all their senses. The Lucy Maud Montgomery Children’s Garden of the Senses includes hundreds of plants that provide different sights, smells and tactile experiences to all those who visit.
Sarah Beckon, chair of Landscape Ontario’s Grounds Management Sector Group, saw an opportunity for industry professionals to contribute to this meaningful experience.
“One of our main goals as a Sector Group is to identify needs in the community,” Beckon said. “When we heard that such a meaningful space could use some support, we were ready and happy to help.”
The garden opened in 1992 to celebrate Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery, best known for writing the Anne of Green Gables series, who spent part of her life writing in nearby Norval, Ont.
Community members have planted many of Montgomery’s beloved heritage plants, with flowers that bloom from early spring until fall. The gardens create a living tribute to the author and her love of nature.
Kathy Gastle has been a community volunteer at the garden since its inception and knows the difference volunteers make in the space.
“Their sustained commitment helps ensure the garden remains a vibrant, productive and welcoming space for everyone,” Gastle said.
On April 25, sector group volunteers spent the day alongside participants from Fanshawe College, community volunteers and local councillors to plant a variety of perennials donated from the Trial Gardens at Landscape Ontario’s home office in nearby Milton, Ont. Despite the cold and wet weather, the team worked hard to get the job done.
Beckon noted how events like this make positive environmental contributions, while also building relationships between green-industry professionals and local citizens.
“What I love most about these experiences is the transgenerational interactions, where seasoned volunteers of the garden are interacting with young entrants in the industry, further showing the value in community-driven projects,” Beckon said.
Industry volunteers returned to the garden on July 25 to do some additional clean-up and to plant some tulip bulbs that will add colour to the garden in early spring.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the day and feel satisfaction in a job well done,” said Beckon. “The results are both immediate and delayed, especially after planting the bulbs, leaving us with something to look forward to next spring.”
The next step is to create a regular maintenance schedule to help with the annual planning and implementation of the gardens, as well as new projects.
In addition to the garden, the historic property also features an interpretive gazebo, sundial, butterfly garden, bird-friendly area and an information kiosk, which are kept running by dedicated volunteers.
