Smith Gilbert Gardens Foundation Inc

Welcome!

Celebrating ten years as Kennesaw's Botanical Garden, Smith-Gilbert Gardens (SGG) is an oasis of green space in the busy northwest Atlanta suburbs of Cobb County. SGG operates as a public-private partnership between the City of Kennesaw, GA and the non-profit Smith-Gilbert Gardens Foundation.

The Gardens

The 17-acre property is rich with botanical, artistic and historic treasures. Fifteen themed garden spaces, anchored by the Reconstruction-era Hiram Butler House, contain more than 4,000 curated plant species. The award-winning "Garden With Wings" butterfly house and pollinator garden promote conservation of beneficial Georgia native plants and insects. The crevice garden displays a gardening style and plant collection rarely seen in the southeastern United States. Robust collections of hydrangeas, camellias, conifers and roses along with woodland and perennial gardens inspire visitors to explore variety for their own landscapes. Blending horticulture with art, the bonsai collection includes more than 70 specimens, diligently trained during monthly work sessions that are open to garden visitors. Thirty remarkable garden sculptures by nationally and internationally known artists add drama to the landscape. Koi ponds, a waterfall and child-friendly play structures throughout the property round out the experience.

Conservation

Smith-Gilbert Gardens' conservation mission is evident throughout the gardens. A minimal-toxicity ethic means that we curtail the use of chemical treatments in garden maintenance. Through best practices in collection management and collaborations with businesses, government entities and other non-profits, we work to preserve global plant biodiversity and improve local habitat. Our educational programs share knowledge of and passion for nature, while inspiring participants to be conservation minded.

Mission

Our mission is to "serve as a resource for conservation, education and the enjoyment of horticulture, fine arts and historic preservation." Smith-Gilbert Gardens is grateful to welcome more than 12,000 visitors each year, including school field trips, youth groups and camps, garden clubs, class and special event participants, and casual visitors.