The park showcases flora, fauna, and natural resources in motivational surroundings that promote environmentally friendly techniques.
[1] The idea of the gardens started in 1991 when the Cooperative Extension Service proposed the founding of a new outdoor learning center.
The Friends became the FBGF in 2003 as a cooperative public private partnership with the intent to enrich the cultural and educational opportunities of the community at a significantly reduced cost to the taxpayers.
It all began in the late 1990’s when a small group of dedicated garden lovers dreamt of creating a verdant oasis in the heart of Pinellas County.
It is through their efforts the FBG opened in December 2000, converting 100 acres in the middle of the most densely populated county in Florida into a diverse garden paradise.
The Cactus/Succulent Garden consists of Agave, Prickly Pear, Desert Rose, Night Blooming Cereus and Crown of Thorns are just a few of the succulents living there.
The Wetlands Walkway and Wildlife Overlook were added in 2018, and give visitors a closer look at the native flora and fauna surrounding its boardwalk trail and viewing areas.
[4] The Majeed Discovery Garden (MDG), a place for children to learn and explore, is projected to open summer 2023.
It is also adjacent to 1+ acre of wetland and native plant buffer on the east and southern boundaries of the Garden, and will include a pond area for additional exploration of aquatic ecosystems.
The creation of a children’s garden within the FBG will allow its visitors to focus on the care and nurture of plants and animals as they interact in creative spaces designed to stimulate all five senses.
Annual operational cost will be a function of general maintenance, programming, events, staffing requirements and volunteer participation.
[5] These partnerships create activities and events for people of all ages, including family-friendly programs like scavenger hunts and art exhibitions.
[8] The Visitor Center at the FBG is home to the Pinellas Extension of UF/IFAS and offers diagnostic services and other information about plants and agriculture.
[9] The Foundation collaborates with the Florida West Coast Orchid Society (FWCOS) on some events, including repotting clinics, plant sales, and more.
Members enjoy discounts, special invitations, and other exclusive benefits such as acceptance into the American Horticulture Society's Reciprocal Admissions Program (RAP).
The RAP affords FBGF members discounts on admission and other services at over 300 botanical gardens and arboreta across the U.S., Canada and a number of Caribbean Isles.
This event has keynote speakers, vendors, breakout sessions, and tours showcasing the Gardens' Florida native plants.
Event-goers receive guided tours of the FBG, as well as private access to beautiful and varied Pinellas County gardens.
Hops Night in the Gardens is a partnership between the Foundation and local breweries, creating a beer sampling event open to the public.