2026 CPS Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient
Congratulations to Mary Pratte, the recipient of the CPS 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award, for her overall contribution to the knowledge, preservation, and promotion of peonies in Canada
As a Past President of the Canadian Peony Society (2005 - 2007), Mary Pratte has been an influential figure within the organization through her leadership, educational work, and ongoing commitment to the preservation of historic peony collections in Canada. Within the Canadian Peony Society, Pratte served in several key roles, including Vice President and newsletter editor. In these positions, she helped strengthen communication among members and supported the organization of peony exhibitions and public displays across Canada.
Shows and displays associated with CPS activities were held at prominent horticultural venues such as the Montreal Botanical Garden, Royal Botanical Gardens, Rideau Hall, and Reford Gardens, helping introduce wider audiences to the diversity and beauty of peonies.
As a member of the Friends of the Farm, she also contributed, on behalf of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, to the re-establishment and enhancement of the extraordinary peony collection at the Central Experimental Farm in Ottawa, helping to preserve and showcase a nationally significant horticultural heritage.
Mary receiving the medal from CPS president Nick Maycher, during the Peony Celebration Weekend, held July 5, 2026, at the Reford Gardens, Quebec.
Mary also maintains a special connection with the Reford Gardens. Over the years, she has generously volunteered her expertise in the identification and documentation of the peony collection, including many historic cultivars originating from the plantings of Elsie Reford, the original creator and owner of the Gardens. Her work has helped preserve and highlight this important horticultural legacy.
Gratitude to Céline Arseneault, Blaine Marchand, and Kate-Lynn Clarke for contributing their words and stories to this tribute to Ms. Pratte.