“In volunteering there is no pay except the privilege of doing it. In this unselfish labour a blessing falls on both the helper and the helped”. Dr Albert Schweitzer

The enjoyment and learning experience of all visitors to Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden are heavily dependent on volunteers. Vital services are provided throughout the estate by volunteers who contribute their time to activities ranging from leading tours to assisting horticultural staff in the gardens.

Kirstenbosch Nurseries Volunteers
Volunteers work in the nurseries and garden on Tuesday and/or Thursday mornings. There are general potting groups, and groups working with Succulents, Ericas, Bulbs, Rutaceae/ Herbaceous and Disas. Tasks include weeding, light trimming, planting and pruning. Plants are propagated for the annual Kirstenbosch Garden Fair.

Kirstenbosch Garden Guides Volunteers
Volunteers offer free guided walks in Kirstenbosch Mondays to Saturdays communicating information about the gardens to local and overseas visitors. Guides meet one Monday of the month for a talk on current Garden affairs.

BotSoc Bookshop Volunteers
Volunteers play a vital role in the Bookshop’s continued aim to interest and educate people of our unique floral heritage. Language skills would be an asset in communicating with overseas visitors.

Walks Volunteers
Volunteers in this group study plant identification and learn to become knowledgeable walk leaders. Training is a long process due to different seasonal changes of flora all over the Peninsula, and also involves doing recce work for upcoming walks. Walks are varied in length and difficulty and anyone interested in joining should be able to find at least one that suits them.

A-Team Volunteers
Walk leaders offer the opportunity for members who join their weekend events to learn about the fynbos and train as leaders for BotSoc outings. Knowledge can be gained on any number of topics related to flora and its conservation. Regular meetings are held in the middle stone cottage, Kirstenbosch.

Herbarium Volunteers
Volunteers with artistic flair and a neat working method assist with specimen mounting at the Herbarium in the Research Centre, Kirstenbosch.