The Ginter Botanical Garden expansion project will open to the public on May 23, nearly doubling the size of the existing conservatory, adding more than seven acres of new gardens and incorporating an additional lake into the garden experience to increase opportunities for connections, wellness, learning and resiliency.

The project was designed to provide needed space for exciting new experiences and programming; increase outdoor classroom learning opportunities; advance botanical collections and create more diverse gardens; and expand the Kroger Community Kitchen Garden.

Highlights include nearly doubling the conservatory in size with the addition of tropical and subtropical houses, including a permanent butterfly house plus conversion of existing houses to Mediterranean and desert climates.

Wick Lake will be incorporated into the guest experience, including Martha’s Way, a walking trail that encircles the lake, adding wildlife habitat, creating a living classroom and serving as a stormwater management resource.

The Kroger Community Kitchen Garden expansion will eventually include a demonstration garden, growing produce for Feed More, plus more fruit trees, berries and vegetables. Since 2009, the garden has donated more than 75,000 pounds of fresh produce to Feed More, which translates to nearly 60,000 healthy meals.