The gardens also served as a reminder of global interconnectedness.
Tropical plants from Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas coexisted in one place, illustrating how climate and care could bridge geographic distance. This diversity reflected human curiosity and the long history of plant exchange driven by exploration, trade, and science. Visitors walking through the gardens encountered a living map of the tropics, expressed through leaves, flowers, and growth patterns.Over time, changes in land use, tourism patterns, and community priorities influenced the role of tropical gardens in Fort Myers. As the city expanded, pressures on space and resources increased. Yet the enduring value of green spaces remained clear. Gardens continued to offer environmental benefits, aesthetic relief, and opportunities for learning. Their presence underscored the importance of preserving natural beauty within growing urban areas.
The legacy of Fort Myers Tropical Gardens lies not only in physical plantings but in the attitudes they fostered. They encouraged appreciation for nature, respect for horticultural knowledge, and awareness of environmental balance. These values extend beyond the gardens themselves, influencing how people interact with their own landscapes and communities.
Today, the idea of tropical gardens in Fort Myers remains deeply relevant. In a world facing environmental challenges and rapid change, such spaces provide models for coexistence between people and nature. They demonstrate how careful planning, respect for local conditions, and commitment to stewardship can create environments that are both beautiful and meaningful. shutdown123