Discover the Blooming Botanical Gardens in Downtown Montgomery: What’s Coming Next?

Cathy Maddox wants everyone to know about the Montgomery Botanical Gardens. "It’s not just for downtown," says Maddox, who leads the board. "It’s for the entire River Region."

Get Involved

Maddox is always on the lookout for volunteers. Whether you can help alone or with a group, your support is welcome.

The gardens host various events. Mark your calendar for a birdwatching class at 10 a.m. on May 17 and a workshop on using plants for dyes at 5:30 p.m. on June 24. Donations and memberships also help keep the gardens thriving.

Recent Changes

A sensory garden has recently been created. This special area allows visitors to focus on the smells, feels, and sounds of nature. In the last two years, volunteers have planted pollinator gardens as well. "Without pollinators, we don’t have food," Maddox points out.

More trees are being planted to replace aging ones. Some of these trees date back to when the park was established in the 1800s. Recently, donor Lee Moore gifted 25 Japanese maple trees to the gardens.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Maddox is teaming up with River Region Trails to build a new pedestrian entrance across from Jackson Hospital. This entrance will feature stone columns that match those at the W.A. Gayle Planetarium, plus a sign for the gardens.

Additionally, Maddox plans to install a historic fountain that once stood in front of the Trilogy Hotel.

A Broader Impact

Botanical gardens like Montgomery’s offer more than just beautiful scenery. They provide vital ecosystems for urban wildlife. According to a 2022 study by the National Wildlife Federation, urban gardens play a key role in supporting biodiversity in cities, providing habitats that many species rely on.

Community response has been enthusiastic. On social media, visitors share their experiences and the beauty they find among the plants. It’s clear that the gardens are becoming a cherished spot for relaxation and exploration.

For those interested, visit the Montgomery Botanical Gardens website for more updates and information.

By supporting places like the Montgomery Botanical Gardens, we contribute to the beauty and health of our environment. This is a space for everyone—a living testament to the importance of nature in urban spaces.

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Botanical Gardens, River Region, Cathy Maddox, pollinator gardens