The Auroville Botanical Gardens were started in August 2000 and have seen a remarkable growth since then. The site has been transformed into a luxuriant landscape that serves as an area for research into environmentally sustainable approaches to land management, as well as a location for environmental education. More than 310 tree species have been planted in the 25-acre arboretum, 5,500 specimens have been planted in the 10-acre conservation forest, and a TDEF plant nursery has been created, capable of producing 50,000 seedlings per year to promote the re-introduction of the indigenous flora of the region. The Auroville Botanical Gardens’ mission is to protect and enhance biodiversity and create a place where environmental education projects can develop through a qualified staff. The purpose of the Ecological Horticulture Program is to train a new generation of professionals who are competent to lead teams in the field engaged in practical work. The
intention is to combine knowledge of plant biology and ecosystems with practical hands-on experiences that ensures best practices can be maintained in the work place.