The process for applying to join the Gardeners' Company is outlined below.
If you have any questions about membership or the application process, or need any support filling in the form, please contact the Company's Membership Secretary.
1. You’ll need to fill in the application form
2. Your Proposer and Seconder (if you have them – these aren't required for temporary membership applicants) will need to provide a reference using this form
3. The Clerk will circulate your application to the Company's Court (governing body)
4. You will be invited for a meeting with EMAC (the Election and Membership Affairs Committee). These are relatively short and informal, often taking place over Zoom. See below for more about preparing for interview
5. EMAC will decide whether to approve your application. If accepted, you’ll immediately become a member of the Company.
6. All Freemen and Liverymen will need to attend an in-person Freedom admission ceremony. This involves making a declaration of allegiance to the sovereign and to the Company. The Clerk will be in touch to arrange this.
If you've been invited to join the Livery and you don't already already have Freedom of the City, you will initially join us as a Freeman of the Company and will pay quarterage at the Freeman rate.
Preparing for your interview
Once you’ve submitted your application, we will be in touch to arrange an interview. This will likely take place online, over Zoom.
It will normally be led by the Chair of EMAC (Heather Barrett-Mold) and attended by other members of the Committee. The Clerk will also be present.
If you have a Proposer and Seconder, they should help you prepare for your interview; if you have any questions, please reach out to them in the first instance.
You may be asked about:
- your own background and interest in horticulture and/or gardening
- what the Gardeners’ Company does today
- what membership involves and requires by way of commitment
- how you see yourself contributing to the Company
- charitable commitments (for Freemen and Liverymen)
- the Company’s history
- the history and function of Livery Companies in relation to the City of London and the Mayoralty
Information about the Company and membership can be found on our website. Other helpful sources of information include the Livery Committee and the City of London’s website.