What We Do
Today, we number over 300 strong. Our aims are simple, to serve as an opportunity for friendship, fund-raising, and learning. We are a registered Scottish Charity. (Reg No SC 004350) and our primary purpose is to aid the upkeep and development of the Garden.
In recent years we have also funded bursaries for a variety of Horticultural Trainee programmes.
In the last few years we have funded the purchase of IrisBG, a modern database for the Garden’s living collection, hydrology equipment, a large number of plants, trees, bulbs and books.
After a generous bequest from a Friend in 2020 and another in 2023, we are hoping to work with other partners to develop a new outside covered space in the Garden to facilitate learning and for all to enjoy.
At the start of the University academic year we hold a houseplant giveaway in the Garden, to freshers in the School of Biological Sciences.
This is to help them make their accommodation feel more like home and to introduce them to the Garden and the Friends.
Please see the Events section to view our programme of activities and Membership Benefits to see what else we offer to Friends.
Plant Sales
These are held in the Garden in May and October to raise funds. Plants are provided by Friends, the Garden and sometimes by sponsors. Knowledgeable Friends are on hand to give advice and the sale often provides rare and unusual items. We are pleased to receive plants from anyone wishing to support us, and often welcome extra pairs of hands on the day. Please contact us at friendsofcbgmembership@gmail.com if you wish to help.
Lecture Programme
Currently we offer a lecture programme which starts each October. Monthly talks are scheduled throughout the winter, and are usually held in the Zoology Building, University of Aberdeen, on Tillydrone Road. Topics are varied, but concentrate on horticulture and the natural world.
Please see below for the latest programme. Talks are usually on the second Thursday of the month at 1930. Refreshments are provided afterwards, and Friends are encouraged to socialise and have the opportunity to chat to the speaker.
