Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens of Silver Springs (BGSS), Calgary, Alberta are indeed a ‘hidden gem’ – a one-of-a kind unique garden!
The BGSS is open to the public year-round from dawn to dusk and is situated within a multi-use space that began as a Birthplace Forest covering several acres of land. Within this area there are over fourteen gardens each displaying unique features. These garden areas are accessible by connecting walking paths of mulch leading throughout the entire area. Along these pathways leading to the gardens are beautiful flowering shrubs, fruit trees and a variety of trees. The gardens demonstrate what can grow and thrive in Northwest Calgary.
Main Garden Areas
Oval Garden, Sunflower Garden, Border Garden, Half Moon Garden, Wall Garden, Swan Garden, Eagle Garden, Owl Garden, Lo H20, Alpine Crevice and Native Plant Gardens, Old Post Garden, and the Shade Garden.
Featured Specialty Gardens and Areas
Shakespeare and Herb Garden, Crevice Rock and Alpine Garden, the Labyrinth, Rose Bowl, Edible Fruit Tree Grove, and the Oak Grove Picnic area.
This garden project began over ten years ago. The gardens have been designed, developed, maintained, and managed entirely by a volunteer group of interested gardeners. As a not-for-profit Charitable Society, the Gardens have been supported by the City of Calgary Parks Department and the Silver Springs Community Association. It is through donations of time talent and treasure from individuals, corporations, and provincial grants that it continues to thrive and has become a focal point of our Community and indeed within the City of Calgary and beyond.
Walking Tour brochures and donation boxes are conveniently located at both the Entrance and the Shakespeare Garden areas.
Our Vision
A destination park and botanical gardens featuring plants that grow in our unique climate.
Our Mission
To create a welcoming park and beautiful gardens that are open for all to enjoy and learn through:
· Emphasis on species that will succeed – Local, variety and specialized gardens.
· Creating and inspiring a natural learning environment; sharing what we know
· Supporting activities that support the vision.
· Inclusiveness – Accessibility for all ages and disabilities
· Engagement, partnerships, and volunteerism
· Stewardship
Best Calgary has designated the Botanical Gardens of Silver Springs as one of the Five (5) best gardens for a relaxing stroll. Visit the website for a description of this and the other four sites.
We continue to welcome visitors, volunteer gardeners and partners to maintain and further develop our gardens. Please visit our website at https://www.bgss.ca/
We also welcome sponsors and supporters in all way. We run completely on donations from others. If you are looking to contribute, review our website for ways to do this. It includes sponsoring gardens, benches, picnic tables and bricks for the pathway. Visit https://www.bgss.ca/donations
