The Men’s Garden Club of Los Angeles is an association of ‘gentlemen gardeners’ dating to June 15, 1950.
It was initiated by a group of “movers and shakers” of that time, men who were business and civic leaders. They also shared a deep and abiding love of gardening and an appreciation of the enduring beauty of plants in a thoughtful landscape. While being gentlemen, and commonly having help in their gardens, they would nonetheless roll up their sleeves, get dirt on their knees and under their fingernails in pursuit of their interest in gardening.
Why a men’s garden club, when ladies and garden clubs have long been synonymous?
The answer is that the Club offered, then and now, an environment of camaraderie and conviviality along with respite from the pressures of professional life. It is a tradition that business is not to be conducted at the monthly meetings. Instead, the lively interchange in shared interests that takes place is stimulated by presentations on a wide range of gardening topics and the traditionally lavish floral displays. The California Club has from the beginning provided the suitably refined setting and renowned menu for the Club luncheon meetings. On occasion, meetings are held away at member gardens or special venues of particular note.
It was natural, however, that such men would go beyond their personal pleasure and look to civic need. They used their personal influence to enhance the community in various ways. For example, members have played key roles in the creation and the ongoing oversight of both the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Descanso Gardens. As stipulated in the bylaws, the Club promotes “…the development of the love of growing plants in the hearts of children, particularly those whose opportunities are restricted”.
Today, more than seventy years later, the Club continues to attract men of enterprise and achievement who also share a genuine interest in plants and gardening. It is our hope that we have the opportunity to learn about the secrets and delights of your garden as well.