The Brevard Discovery Garden, nestled in the heart of Brevard County, Florida, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and recreational activities. This 20-acre garden is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, families, and individuals seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its diverse range of plant species, scenic walking trails, and interactive exhibits, the Brevard Discovery Garden is a treasure trove of secrets waiting to be uncovered. In this article, we will delve into 12 secrets of the Brevard Discovery Garden, exploring its history, features, and attractions that make it a fascinating destination.
A Brief History of the Brevard Discovery Garden
The Brevard Discovery Garden was established in 2001 as a joint initiative between the Brevard County government and the Brevard County Extension Service. The garden’s primary objective was to create a community resource that would promote environmental education, conservation, and sustainability. Over the years, the garden has evolved to include a wide range of features, including a butterfly garden, a sensory garden, and a children’s garden, among others. Today, the Brevard Discovery Garden is a thriving hub of activity, attracting visitors from all over the state and beyond.
Secret 1: The Butterfly Garden
The butterfly garden is one of the most popular attractions at the Brevard Discovery Garden. This stunning exhibit features a variety of lepidopteran species, including the monarch butterfly, the gulf fritillary, and the blue morpho. Visitors can walk through the garden and observe these beautiful creatures up close, learning about their life cycles, habitats, and migration patterns. The butterfly garden is also a great place to learn about the importance of pollinators and the role they play in maintaining ecosystem health.
| Butterfly Species | Native Habitat |
|---|---|
| Monarch Butterfly | North America |
| Gulf Fritillary | South America |
| Blue Morpho | Central America |
Secret 2: The Sensory Garden
The sensory garden is another unique feature of the Brevard Discovery Garden. This interactive exhibit is designed to stimulate the senses, with a variety of plants and textures that visitors can touch, smell, and taste. The garden includes a range of herbs, flowers, and vegetables, as well as a water feature and a sculpture garden. Visitors can explore the garden and discover new sensations, learning about the importance of sensory experience in our daily lives.
Secret 3: The Children’s Garden
The children’s garden is a fun and interactive space designed for kids of all ages. This exhibit features a range of play-based activities, including a mini-golf course, a playhouse, and a sand pit. The garden also includes a variety of educational elements, such as a vegetable garden and a compost area. Visitors can bring their kids and enjoy a day of outdoor play and learning, exploring the wonders of nature and the environment.
Exploring the Brevard Discovery Garden’s Trails and Exhibits
The Brevard Discovery Garden features a range of scenic walking trails that take visitors through different ecosystems and habitats. The pine flatwoods trail is a popular route, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to spot local wildlife. The garden also includes a variety of interactive exhibits, such as the insect hotel and the bird-watching station. Visitors can explore these exhibits and learn about the importance of conservation and sustainability in our daily lives.
Secret 4: The Pine Flatwoods Trail
The pine flatwoods trail is a 1.5-mile loop that takes visitors through a stunning pine flatwoods ecosystem. This trail features a range of plant species, including saw palmetto, scrub oak, and pine trees. Visitors can walk the trail and enjoy the scenic views, spotting local wildlife such as deer, turkeys, and butterflies.
Secret 5: The Insect Hotel
The insect hotel is a unique exhibit that showcases the importance of insects in our ecosystem. This interactive display features a range of insect habitats, including a bee hotel and a butterfly house. Visitors can learn about the different types of insects that live in the garden and the role they play in pollination and decomposition.
What are the hours of operation for the Brevard Discovery Garden?
+The Brevard Discovery Garden is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday through Saturday, and from 12pm to 5pm on Sundays. The garden is closed on major holidays.
Are dogs allowed in the Brevard Discovery Garden?
+Yes, dogs are allowed in the Brevard Discovery Garden, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Owners are also required to clean up after their pets.
Secrets 6-12: More to Explore at the Brevard Discovery Garden
In addition to the butterfly garden, sensory garden, and children’s garden, the Brevard Discovery Garden features a range of other attractions and exhibits. These include the vegetable garden, the compost area, and the rain garden. Visitors can also explore the garden’s gift shop and education center, which offer a range of resources and activities for adults and children. The garden also hosts a variety of events and workshops throughout the year, including gardening classes, nature walks, and conservation lectures.
Secret 6: The Vegetable Garden
The vegetable garden is a thriving exhibit that showcases a range of fruits and vegetables. Visitors can learn about different gardening techniques and strategies, including companion planting and crop rotation. The garden also features a variety of herbs and spices, which can be used in cooking and medicine.
Secret 7: The Compost Area
The compost area is an interactive exhibit that teaches visitors about the importance of composting and sustainability. Visitors can learn about different composting methods and strategies, including vermicomposting and hot composting. The garden also offers a range of composting workshops and classes, which provide hands-on training and education.
Secret 8: The Rain Garden
The rain garden is a beautiful exhibit that showcases the importance of water conservation and stormwater management. Visitors can learn about different strategies for managing rainwater, including rain barrels and permeable pavers. The garden also features a range of plants and flowers that are adapted to wetland environments.
Secret 9: The Gift Shop
The gift shop is a great place to find unique and educational gifts, including books, toys, and gardening supplies. Visitors can also find a range of local products, including
Secret 10: The Education Center
The education center is a state-of-the-art facility that offers a range of classes and workshops for adults and children. Visitors can learn about different topics, including gardening
