About Us

The International Contemplative Garden Association is growing for you.

Whether you are a Master Gardener, a spiritual director, a seeker or a gardening devotee, welcome! You’ve come to the right place to participate in and co-create mindfulness and presence in the garden.

Founded by Master Gardener and spiritual director, Rita Perea, the mission of the International Contemplative Garden Association is to inspire personal and spiritual transformation through the support of mindful practices in the garden.

Through our inspirational Membership, Reflections, Books, and Events, the ICGA provides information to both seekers and gardeners alike about contemplative garden design, mindful gardening practices, and enjoying stillness in the garden — all created to support you on your journey to reconnect with your inner self and to the “that which is beyond.” Thus, supporting both personal and spiritual transformation through contemplative living and gardening.

The International Contemplative Garden Association also offers a garden certification program open to our members. Having an ICGA certified garden is a meaningful way to share your beautiful and peace-filled garden space with others.

To share these good works with the world, contributions generated by donations, memberships and garden certifications support organizations which share our vision and mission.

Our Advisory Board:

• Rita Perea, Founder
• Merri Stephenson, Artist, Chattain, France
• Kelly Norris, Horticulturalist and Author, The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
• Dana Woods, Principal/ Creative Director, DWConsulting, LLC.
• Rachel Post, Branded Content Editor, Guardian News Media, UK

Organizations we support:

• Spiritual Directors International
• The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
• Prairiewoods Sprituality Center
• Stillpoint Center for Christian Spirituality

Please consider donating, becoming a member or certifying your garden today!