All about us: Our 154th year
Since 1857, we have been dedicated to preserving the horticultural heritage of the town of Fergus, Ontario. The mandate of our society is the promotion of horticultural education. Our regular meetings and shows encourage the study of cultivation, propagation, and the principles of design, while sharing common interests and fellowship.
Our floral emblem is a common weed found throughout Ontario. The Scotch Thistle has woody, branched stems with long, spine-edged wings running up the sides. It has numerous, large, bright violet to reddish flowers supported by large spine-tipped bracts. Woolly hairs cover large, irregularly-lobed leaves that have sharp yellow spikes. Mature plants can be up to 3m tall.
Horticultural Societies began to form in the last century as branches of Agricultural Societies. In 1857, Fergus formed an Independent Agricultural Society, making it the first Agricultural (Horticultural) Society in the province. This was primarily due to the early work of one of the directors of the Highland and Agricultural Society, Adam Fergusson, a lawyer and agriculturist, who settled in Canada in 1833 (founder of Fergus, Ontario), and became actively involved in organizing agricultural societies in Canada. In 1897, an act of the provincial legislature was passed which supported Horticultural Societies in Ontario "to encourage citizens to beautify their communities as well as their properties".
The Fergus Horticultural Society is affiliated with the Ontario Horticultural Association. The Association was formed in 1906. The Fergus Horticultural Society is subject to the Constitution of the OHA and the provisions of the Horticultural Societies Act, R.S.O. 1980, c.204. This organization gives guidance and support to all members.
"Gardening is Canada's second most popular physical activity after walking. Gardening is much more than just taking the time to smell the roses and can be an excellent physical activity to keep you healthy. Just ask any gardener."
Join us for Horticultural Fellowship - 2012
Our society prides itself on our goal of "Education for All". Those with vast horticulture experience to those who are just starting a gardening plot, defines our society. Throughout the year, monthly speakers, plant sales and tours develop our horticultural knowledge within strong fellowship base.
Our yearly plans are outlined in Fergus Horticultural Society Yearbook 2012.
