Who we are
We are a member of the Master Gardeners of Ontario (MGOI Inc.), a registered non-profit organization.
Our volunteers are experienced gardeners who have studied horticulture extensively and keep upgrading their skills through technical training and continuing education. Master Gardeners provide sustainable horticultural advice to the gardening public. We come from diverse horticultural backgrounds and love to share our passion for gardening.
Communities we serve
Ancaster · Burlington · Dundas · Flamborough · Georgetown · Hamilton · Milton · Oakville · Waterdown
Our community programs
Two ways we help Hamilton gardens grow for nature.
Monarch Awards
Recognizing Hamilton front-yard gardens that support pollinators, birds and other wildlife.
Garden Journeys Open Days
Open gardens across Hamilton showing sustainable, nature-friendly gardening up close.
Both programs are supported by the City of Hamilton City Enrichment Fund.
News · October 21, 2026
Hamilton Monarch Awards Celebrate Gardens Growing for Nature
HAMILTON, ONTARIO — Eighty-five gardeners, volunteers and community supporters gathered at Dundas Town Hall on October 19 to celebrate the 2026 Hamilton Monarch Awards, recognizing residents who are making their front yards more welcoming to nature.
Co-chaired by Janet Mackey and Kate Sault, the program recognized 58 gardens this year. Twenty-six gardeners received Monarch recognition, while another 32 were recognized at the Starting the Journey, Caterpillar or Chrysalis levels.
Led by Halton Master Gardeners, the Monarch Awards celebrate ecological gardening and encourage residents to create gardens that support biodiversity. Rather than ranking gardens from good to better, the four recognition levels reflect a journey, acknowledging each gardener’s efforts and opportunities to do more for nature.
The season began with applications in May, followed by garden visits in July and August. Volunteer assessment teams visited eligible front-yard gardens and prepared individual written assessments, highlighting each garden’s strengths and offering practical suggestions for further growth. (Go to: Celebrate to read entire article)
