The Trial Gardens are a themed and judged competition. Local garden clubs are invited each year to participate. They design, plant, and maintain their assigned plot for the summer. The gardens are judged in June, July and August by three qualified judges using a point system. The competition theme for 2026 is the 250th Anniversary of our Nation, selected by Grosse Pointe Farm & Garden which took 1st place in our 2025 Trial Gardens Competition. The Herb Society of America, Grosse Pointe Unit has designed, planted, and maintained the lovely four inner herb garden plots of Culinary, Fragrance, Medicinal, and Wedding, since 1990.
Every September, the end of summer is celebrated at our Annual Awards Tea with delicious tea sandwiches and refreshments, the announcement of the judges’ top three gardens, and a horticultural speaker. Our 2026 Awards Tea will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the Dining and Reception Rooms at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial.
Registration: Admission is free to members and non-members. Advanced registration is required, please register here.