Tropical Ranch Botanical Gardens was opened in May of 2006 when Diane Rexroad and Jim Haines decided they wanted to open their gardens to the general public in an effort to educate them in placing the right plant in the right place, according to the University of Florida's Florida Friendly Landscaping Program. As they are both Martin County Master Gardeners, they are fully involved in the best management practices of watering efficiently, fertilizing appropriately, using mulch, attracting wildlife, managing yard pests responsibly, recycling, and reducing storm water runoff.