Creating the Jardin botanique of tomorrow

In 2020, the Jardin botanique launched a participatory initiative called Imagining the Jardin botanique. The aim was to initiate a process of reflection and creation by our employees and the general public in order to conceptualize the Jardin botanique of 2031—its centenary year. Our thinking would take into consideration the socio-ecological transition, equity and inclusion, citizen participation, and innovation.

In preparation for this 100th anniversary in 2031, the Jardin botanique has set forth a vision and direction aimed at the following: ensuring the long-term viability of its infrastructures; pursuing its mission in a consistent manner; updating its services to Montréal residents; and maintaining its international profile as one of the 10 leading botanical gardens in the world.

Accessibility and inclusion a priority

A key objective of the Master Plan of Montréal’s Jardin botanique is to offer a botanical garden that is both inspiring and universally accessible to all. Enhanced gardens, exhibitions and services that make the experience and information accessible and inclusive are therefore fundamental. This objective is also consistent with the priorities of Montréal 2030 and Espace pour la vie.

Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) in an intersectional perspective

Projects will be considered following a gender-based analysis (GBA+), in an intersectional perspective. This approach makes it possible to identify and rectify exclusions, by considering all groups who may suffer forms of discrimination based on such factors as age, ethnicity, gender, and physical and intellectual limitations.

Starting in 2022, the Jardin botanique team began implementing citizen consultation workshops so that projects could be planned in collaboration with groups experiencing exclusion. Their input has been essential in ensuring that their particular situations are taken into account right from the beginning.

2023-2024

Refurbishment of the western gardens

This area of the Jardin botanique includes the gardens along its western boundary, adjacent to Pie-IX Blvd. It comprises the Perennial Garden, Food Garden, Garden of Innovations, Québec Corner, Monastery Garden, medicinal and poisonous plants, and the Shrub Garden. Work will be carried out in this sector between 2025 and 2028. A new space, currently being discussed, will be adapted for families in this area.

The families and children space

This is the first of four areas being created with families in mind. It will include games and hands-on experiences under the theme of a participatory and water discovery garden. The Garden of Innovations is, by its nature, an ideal place for demos and experimentation activities.

Rehabilitation of the Jardin botanique’s walkways

With a focus on improving the clarity, accessibility and safety of our pathways, this project aims to identify and rehabilitate the entire system and develop a new, fully accessible walkway network for visiting the Jardin botanique. This will include a review of the overall traffic flow in order to ensure a fluid, immersive experience for all visitors.

Citizen consultation workshops. Sign up!

You too can participate, whether you have a particular condition or not, or know little or nothing about the Jardin botanique!

A number of citizen consultation workshops are being planned, open to everyone. Fill in the form to receive more information as soon as it is available.

Refurbishment of the western gardens

• Workshop 1 – September 2023 (how to participate)
• Workshop 2 – Spring 2024 (how to participate)

Creation of a new space for families and children

• Workshop 1 – April 30, 2023 (completed)
• Workshop 2 – Spring 2024 (how to participate)

Réaménagement des voies de circulation du Jardin botanique

• Workshop 1 – Fall 2023 (registration?)
• Workshop 2 – Spring 2024 (registration?)