Happy 30th, Heathcote!

This is Paul Janensch with a Treasure Coast Essay about the Heathcote Botanical Gardens on Savannah Road in Fort Pierce.  This five-acre haven of subtropical flowers and trees recently celebrated its 30^th anniversary.  The gardens include a Japanese Garden, a Reflection Garden, an Herb Garden, a Rainforest Display a Native Plants Garden, a Palm Walk and the country’s largest display of subtropical bonsai – or miniature trees in pots.  The name comes from Heathcote Street in Scarsdale, New York.  A plant nursery was moved from there to Fort Pierce.  Later, the property was put up for sale.  Five determined women led the effort to preserve it as a non-profit, public space.  Thank you, Jan Bals, Laura Baker, Peggy Berg, Norma Carsens and Gloria Moore.  I’m Paul Janensch.