Tropical Ranch Botanical Garden in Stuart, Florida, is Martin County’s only botanical garden and operates on the property of its founders, Diane Rexroad and Jim Haines, who continue to own and run it. Opened to the public in May 2006, it was created as an educational landscape connected to the University of Florida’s Florida Friendly Landscaping Program. The garden teaches home landscaping and horticulture through environmentally minded practices such as fertilizing, mulching, attracting wildlife, integrated pest management, water conservation, and reducing stormwater runoff. Organized into nine themed areas, it is maintained by its owners and volunteers and offers private tours and group visits by appointment.