The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum also known as KBGA is a not for profit urban community situated in Knoxville, Tennessee. Spanning 47 acres, KBGA contains history of horticulture dating back over 200 years.

  • Where is KBGA located?
    • KBGA is located in close proximity to downtown Knoxville.
  • How is KBGA funded?
    • KBGA relies on membership schemes, volunteers, and donations from visitors and corporate sponsors.
  • Is there an admission fee to visit KBGA?
    • No, KBGA maintains a no admission fee policy.
  • When is KBGA open?
    • KBGA is open all days of the year.
  • Are maps available for visitors?
    • Yes, KBGA provides a garden map for visitors who choose to self-guide.
  • Can group tours be arranged?
    • Yes, group tours can be arranged with advance booking.
  • Are the gardens publicly accessible?
    • Yes, the gardens are publicly accessible to all.
  • What types of events does KBGA host?
    • KBGA hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including:
      • Weddings
      • Private parties
      • Annual events
  • What is the history of KBGA?
    • The history of KBGA dates back over 200 years to 1780, when David Wessel Howell purchased land and planted an orchard.
    • Mr. Howell established a family farm selling fruit and vegetables to local businesses and families.
    • Over time, he expanded to selling seeds, small plants, and trees so others could grow their own.
    • The farm was handed down through generations and became KBGA in 2001, originally purchasing 16 acres.
    • In 2004, an additional 28 acres were purchased.
  • What are the main attractions at KBGA?
    • The Joe Howell House: Built in 1929, originally starting with four rooms and expanding to 26 rooms by the 1950s.
    • The surrounding gardens were renovated to preserve the authentic design, featuring brick borders, evergreen shrubs, stonework, and double brick edging.
    • Stone Terraces: Designed in the style of 1950s English gardens, featuring:
      • Stone walls and round gatehouses
      • Large trees, including a Kentucky coffee tree, southern magnolia, and tulip poplar
    • Master Gardener Beds: Created in 2011 by Knox County Master Gardeners, containing unique plant varieties and serving as a teaching area for garden clubs.
    • Row Garden: Built in 1938, featuring plants growing in partitioned beds made from reclaimed concrete plates.
    • Martha H. Ashe Garden: Originally part of the Joe N. Howell Landscape Nursery, redesigned in 2007 to remove overgrown plants and refresh the landscape.
    • Welcome Center and Danae Garden: A 5,000-square-foot building that was formerly the nursery’s plot barn, now hosting events and open to the public.
    • Butterfly Meadow: Features 50 species of native Tennessee plants, with a nearby classroom for children's nature education.
  • What educational programs does KBGA offer?
    • The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum offers a variety of lessons, courses, and workshops for all age groups.
    • Topics covered include:
      • Landscape design
      • Health and wellness
      • The arts
      • Vegetable gardening
    • The Center for Urban Agriculture spans 10 acres and allows both novice and experienced gardeners to grow food.
    • The center is divided into five areas:
      • The Market Garden
      • Amphitheater Garden
      • Family Garden
      • Every Child Outdoors Youth Vegetable Garden
      • Terrace Garden
    • These gardens provide fresh vegetables and fruits to Knoxville residents and offer education on agriculture, nutrition, and entrepreneurship.

Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, 2743 I Av, Knoxville,TN 37914, Phone: 865-540-8690, Map

Map:


Plan Your Trip