Celebrating the connections between plants and people in the Intermountain West.
After tucking in the very first plants in late fall of 2023, Rocky Mountain Gardens opened to the public on September 14, 2024. A project of the Missoula County Department of Ecology & Extension, the beautiful 2.75 botanical gardens are the first of their kind in Montana.
The gardens are free and open to the public, containing over 20 distinct growing areas. Areas include waterwise, pollinator-friendly, native prairie, native forest, vegetable, medicinal herb, sensory, rose, and ornamental garden beds, as well as a fruit tree and berry orchard.
Designed for education and contemplation, Rocky Mountain Gardens showcase the diversity of plants and gardening styles suitable for our particular region and climate. Additionally, the gardens are maintained with practices that foster soil health and wildlife habitat.
Additional features further expand opportunities for public education. A four-season greenhouse allows us to grow plants from seed. In the near future, a hoop house will act as a demonstration space for season extension crops. The Exploration Courtyard, outdoor classroom, and drought tolerant lawn areas provide spaces to gather, participate in a class, or take in the beautiful scenery.
In addition to garden staff, the gardens are maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers. Gathering on a near-weekly basis throughout the growing season, garden volunteers assist with planting, weeding, mulching, harvesting, and much more.
