Celebrating life through gardening, learning, and community service
San Antonio Garden Center is a council comprised of more than two dozen local non-profit organizations and nationally federated garden clubs. Founded in 1940 and headquartered in a building loaned by the Witte Museum, Garden Center eventually opened its own building in its current location across from Mancke Park in 1960. We meet monthly from September to May, hosting programs and special events that focus on horticulture, gardening, home, culinary, and local arts and culture.
Our History
San Antonio Garden Center has a rich history spanning over 80 years. The organization was founded in 1940 by two women, Mrs. R.A. Witt and Mrs. J. R. Murphy, who conceived an idea to establish a headquarters that would provide a link between organized clubs and their members, new home gardeners, and the general public. The purpose was to generate interest in horticulture, conservation, civic beautification, and community projects.
The organization grew rapidly, and by 1962, there were 65 clubs, with members totaling more than 2,000. During the ensuing years, the Garden Center contributed to many projects, including beautification of public places, planting trees at city schools, highway plantings, teaching junior gardeners, and participating in the community "Litter-Bug" program. The organization also prioritized creating a Garden for the Blind, with groundbreaking taking place on July 21, 1976, on property adjacent to San Antonio Garden Center.
Our Services
The San Antonio Garden Center offers a range of services, including event rentals, wedding planning, and gardening classes. Our beautiful building is available for private rental for weddings, quinceaneras, meetings, business conferences, fundraising events, and family gatherings. We also offer scholarships to area students studying horticulture, landscaping, and related fields at Texas A&M University and Palo Alto College. Additionally, we provide a variety of programs, including floral design classes, holiday markets, and garden therapy programs.
Membership
The San Antonio Garden Center is a well-established community organization that brings people together through their love of gardening and sense of service. We are comprised of more than two dozen local non-profit organizations and nationally federated garden clubs. Our own member group, Gardeners at Large, offers a unique opportunity for individuals to get involved and make a difference in their community.
Get Involved
Whether you are a gardening enthusiast, a student pursuing a degree in horticulture, or simply looking for a way to give back to your community, the San Antonio Garden Center has something for everyone. Join us for programs and events, volunteer your time, or become a member and be a part of our organization. We look forward to welcoming you to our community!
General Information
The San Antonio Garden Center (SAGC) is a popular venue for various events, meetings, and exhibitions. Many reviewers have raved about its cleanliness, friendly staff, and beautiful surroundings.
Free Entry and Parking
Ashish Bhandari and Micheal R. Felton both mentioned that the SAGC offers free entry and parking, making it an attractive option for visitors.
Meeting Spaces
Aurora Buchanan and Sunnee Rakowitz praised the venue as a great spot for meetings, citing its cleanliness and spaciousness. The Fiber Artists of San Antonio had a successful holiday meeting at the SAGC, and the venue is also popular for wedding and other special occasions.
Plant Sales and Events
Anna Marie S. and Yen Yan Commercial Group highlighted the variety of plant sales and events held at the SAGC, including cactus succulent events and orchid shows.
Wedges and Special Occasions
The SAGC is a versatile venue that can accommodate various events, including weddings, as mentioned by Desiree Flores, Aye Valeria Morales, and Saeng N. Esteban.
Landscaping and Decor
Saeng N. Esteban and Luis Valdez praised the venue's nice landscaping and attractive interior design.
Staff
Many reviewers, including Aldo Garcia, Desiree Flores, Aye Valeria Morales, and Yolanda Rosas, had positive interactions with the staff, describing them as friendly, cooperative, and helpful, particularly Rhonda, who was instrumental in making arrangements for Desiree Flores' wedding.
Miscellaneous
Jesse Rebel and Joyce Ann Reyna mentioned that the SAGC has become busier since the COVID-19 pandemic, but the venue is back to pre-pandemic levels with many in-person events.
