Mounts Botanical Garden

Mounts Botanical Garden

Mounts Botanical Garden is a 14-acre botanical garden located in West Palm Beach, Florida. It is a hidden gem that is beloved by locals and visitors alike, offering a serene and beautiful oasis in the midst of the city. Founded in 1959, the garden has grown and evolved over the years, becoming one of the premier botanical gardens in the state of Florida.

History and Overview

The Mounts Botanical Garden was originally created as a part of the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Service. The garden was designed to provide horticultural education to the public and to promote the use of plants in landscaping and agriculture. The garden was named after Marvin U. Mounts, Jr., who was a local horticulturalist and community leader.

Today, the garden is operated by the Friends of Mounts Botanical Garden, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of the garden. The garden is home to over 2,000 species of plants, including exotic and tropical plants, native Florida plants, and rare and endangered species. More

Collections and Exhibits

The Mounts Botanical Garden is divided into several distinct gardens, each with its own unique collection of plants and exhibits. These gardens include:

  • The Tropical Forest: This garden is home to a variety of exotic and tropical plants, including orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. The garden features a winding path through a lush canopy of trees, providing visitors with a sense of being in a tropical rainforest.

  • The Mediterranean Garden: This garden features plants from the Mediterranean region, including olive trees, lavender, and rosemary. The garden is designed to be reminiscent of a Mediterranean courtyard, with a central fountain and seating areas for visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

  • The Children’s Maze Garden: This garden is designed to be a fun and interactive space for children to explore. The garden features a maze made of hedges, as well as interactive exhibits that teach children about plants and nature.

  • The Butterfly Garden: This garden is home to a variety of butterfly species, as well as the plants that they need to survive and thrive. The garden features a butterfly house, where visitors can observe butterflies up close and learn about their life cycle.

In addition to these gardens, the Mounts Botanical Garden also hosts a variety of special events and exhibits throughout the year. These events include plant sales, garden tours, and educational programs.

Education and Outreach

The Mounts Botanical Garden is committed to education and outreach, offering a range of programs and resources for visitors of all ages. The garden’s education department offers classes and workshops on topics such as gardening, landscape design, and plant care. The garden also hosts field trips for school groups and offers resources for teachers, including lesson plans and educational materials.

The garden’s outreach programs include partnerships with local schools, community organizations, and government agencies. The garden works to promote the use of plants in sustainable landscaping and agriculture, and to encourage the conservation of rare and endangered plant species.

Conclusion

The Mounts Botanical Garden is a beautiful and peaceful space that offers visitors a unique and immersive experience with nature. With its diverse collection of plants, its beautiful and educational exhibits, and its commitment to education and outreach, the garden is a valuable resource for the community and a must-see destination for visitors to the West Palm Beach area. Whether you are an avid gardener, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Mounts Botanical Garden is a place that should not be missed. Next Article