Selby Gardens reveals plans for Phase 2 of its expansion

TIME recognized Selby Botanical Gardens (1534 Mound St, Sarasota) as one of the world’s greatest places, highlighting its oasis of Banyan trees, renowned flora collections, and distinction as the world’s first net-positive-energy garden. Nestled in the heart of Sarasota, Selby Botanical Gardens is already a global treasure—and it’s about to become even more remarkable.

Selby Gardens plans to begin phase two of its three-phase master plan, with construction set to start by late 2025. Phase one, completed in 2024, added more than 188,000 square feet of new amenities and infrastructure upgrades. Phase two will introduce a new Conservatory Complex, a Learning Pavilion, and key landscape enhancements.

The conservatory will serve as a dazzling crystal palace, housing over 20,000 plants from Selby Gardens’ living research collections. The Learning Pavilion will provide enhanced educational opportunities, supporting expanded school programs and lifelong learning initiatives. Meanwhile, the upgraded garden features will include a Taras Stone Garden, Live Oak Grove, and improved pathways that integrate seamlessly with the existing landscape.

Selby Gardens raises 40.3 million for developments

Building on the success of the first phase of its redevelopment, Selby Gardens has raised an impressive additional $40.3 million, bringing the total funds secured to $103 million. Most of this support comes from generous private philanthropists, with additional contributions from endowments.

Co-Chair Gail Morganroth, MD, expressed gratitude for the community’s support, stating, “We are absolutely thrilled to witness the incredible generosity of our community, which will inspire a wave of innovation and possibility for Selby Gardens.” Fellow Co-Chair Audrey Robbins added, “Together, we are forging a brighter future for Selby Gardens and Sarasota, and we can’t wait to see the remarkable changes that will unfold as a result.”

Although phase two is slated for completion by 2027, visitors can already enjoy the gardens’ serene beauty. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offers 45 acres of stunning bayfront landscapes, connecting guests with epiphytic orchids, bromeliads, gesneriads, and Florida’s natural history. Located on Sarasota Bay, the downtown campus is the only botanical garden in the world dedicated to the study and display of these fascinating air plants.