Telling the Garden's Story: Our Botanical Signage Refresh Project

ldfeit
Aug 20
2 min read

Picture this: you’re standing in a vibrant garden area. The colors are striking, the forms unusual, but there’s no sign to explain what you’re seeing, no names, no story, no insight into why these plants were chosen or how they support the ecosystem. The beauty is there, but the meaning is just out of reach.

Now imagine that same moment with thoughtful signage that reveals a deeper story, how these plants anchor pollinators, reflect regional ecology, or represent centuries of cultural knowledge. You walk away not just inspired, but more connected, more informed, and more curious than when you arrived.

That’s the experience we’re working toward.

Rotary Botanical Gardens has always been a place where plants and people connect. With more than 4,000 plant species spread across 21 acres, our living collection continues to grow, both in scale and in intention. With that growth comes a responsibility: to invite people into a deeper understanding of what they’re seeing.

Why It Matters

Over the years, many of our existing signs have become outdated, sun-bleached, and weather-worn. At the same time, garden areas have evolved and expanded, new collections have been introduced, and interpretive approaches have shifted.

Rotary Botanical Gardens is a living museum, after all. Our plant collections are increasingly curated with intention- designed to highlight botanical diversity and reflect a deeper story. We plant with a perennial focus, a native focus, and a systems-thinking approach that considers ecology, sustainability, and long-term impact. Signage helps convey not just what is here, but why it’s here and why it matters.

Updated signage will:

Accurately reflect current plant collections and garden layouts
Replace damaged or outdated signs with durable, accessible new ones
Share interpretive information that connects visitors to plants, culture, and ecology

Whether someone is a casual visitor or a lifelong gardener, refreshed signage will help every guest explore with confidence, learn with ease, and leave with a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

What’s Happening

We’re currently conducting a full audit of our existing signage and working with partners to:

Design a modern, cohesive visual system for signs and way-finding markers
Create new interpretive panels that reflect our current collections
Ensure accessibility, clarity, and visual harmony throughout the Gardens
Install new signage beginning in 2026

We’re also thrilled to share that we’ve kickstarted the fundraising with a generous $10,000 gift from a local family who shares our belief that upgraded signage will enrich the experience of every visitor.