The Aquarium Butterfly & Hummingbird Garden is a perfect example of what can transpire when people with a similar vision come together and make it a reality. In 2006, the Master Gardeners of Hamilton County contacted the City of Chattanooga and the Parks and Recreation Department and proposed the development of a garden on the Aquarium grounds. MGHC agreed to provide the materials and labor for the construction if the City of Chattanooga would provide the land.
MGHC came up with the idea to develop the garden as a method to involve the attendees of the 2006 Southern Regional Master Gardener Conference held in Chattanooga in a gardening activity. The initial planting of a 2,500 sq. ft. plot was completed during the conference by more than fifty master gardeners from twelve states.
The Aquarium Butterfly & Hummingbird Garden is located on Riverfront Parkway between the two main buildings at the foot of the steps leading to the indoor butterfly house. It has been endorsed as a Certified Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation and is comprised of both annual and perennial native and non-native plants. The plants included were selected based on their ability to attract pollinators and provide constant color.
MGHC maintains the garden and uses it as a way for its members to log volunteer hours and to learn more about gardening. Members have not only planted and weeded the garden since its inception, but also built retaining walls and a trellis. The beauty of the garden is also enhanced by a sculpture donated by a local artist.