Fanshawe’s Mac Cuddy Botanic Garden welcomes visitors for annual Open Garden event

Fanshawe College is inviting the community to explore the beauty and diversity of the Mac Cuddy Botanic Garden during its annual Open Garden event on June 6 and 7 in Strathroy.

Managed by students and faculty in Fanshawe’s Horticulture Technician program, the Garden features one of Ontario’s largest and most diverse collections of plants. Visitors can experience more than 2,000 species showcased throughout dry, rock, woodland, perennial, rose and aquatic gardens. The Garden is also home to several endangered species, including the Cucumber Magnolia and Yellow Trillium.

As a living classroom, the Mac Cuddy Botanic Garden provides students with valuable hands-on learning opportunities in horticulture, plant identification, landscape maintenance and sustainable garden practices.

Alex Bright, manager of Fanshawe Gardens, says the Open Garden is an opportunity for the community to experience the creativity and craftsmanship students bring to the space each year.

“Every year, students make meaningful contributions that help transform the garden into a space that inspires visitors and showcases the skills they’re developing,” says Bright. “After 12 years of collaboration, learning and craftsmanship, we’re excited to showcase our recently completed dry stone wall.”

Admission is $5 (free for children 12 and under) and includes a guided tour of the garden, offered daily at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Founded by A.M. (Mac) Cuddy and Patricia Van Omen Cuddy, the garden is known across North America for its array of unique and endangered plant species and commitment to horticulture excellence. 

What:             Mac Cuddy Botanic Garden open garden

When:            Saturday, June 6, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, June 7, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Tours offered daily at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Location:        28443 Centre Road, Strathroy, ON N7G 3H8 

Admission:    Adults – $5, Children 12 and under – free admission