The Leaflet eNewsletter September 2020
Dear Friend,
September has arrived! With autumn rapidly approaching, we reflect on the wonderful summer we’ve had and look forward to a new season at Allan Gardens.
We have an important update regarding the Palm House. After much study by the City and expert consultants, it has been determined that the iconic Palm House requires new glazing and cladding to meet safety requirements, restore building envelope performance, and facilitate ongoing maintenance.Work on the Palm House is anticipated to begin in summer 2021, and is forecast to take 18 to 22 months. While the Palm House will be closed during construction, other greenhouses are anticipated to be open intermittently when safe public access can be provided.
This essential work will preserve and enhance the heritage architectural character of the Palm House while bringing the building up to current codes and standards. Renovation will result in an operationally efficient, structurally sound Palm House that will continue to delight visitors for decades to come. Plans for the existing Palm House plant collection are currently being discussed by FOAG and the City. We encourage you to reach out to us should you have any questions about the Palm House revitalization.
As you likely know, the conservatory reopened to the public in July with reduced public hours (12 noon – 4 pm) and modified entrances/exits in order to enable physical distancing. It has been a pleasure to see visitors reconnect with the conservatory. Have you visited? We’d love to hear about your experience!
FOAG is continually awed by the generosity and community-mindedness of Torontonians. A recent donation will permit us to continue moving forward with refresh – a City endorsed document which sets out the vision for the future of the park. Read on for more information regarding this generous donation.
Also in this issue of the Leaflet are new Garden Blogs from our volunteers, and a feature on the volunteers working in Edible Allan Gardens this season.
Are you curious about what’s blooming in Allan Gardens? Read on to find out!
Whether September means back to school, back to work, more of the same, or something entirely new and different, we wish you all the best.
Stay safe and be well,
Board of Directors
Friends of Allan Gardens
Read the full issue here: https://mailchi.mp/friendsofallangardens/the-leaflet-september-2020
