Features of the Heritage Garden
Situated on three acres of property, the Heritage Garden represents the major eco-regions of the state and its profusion of native plants strives to educate visitors about Ohio's biodiversity and the importance of conserving and preserving the natural beauty of the state. It was originally developed and planted in 2001, with the guidance of then First Lady, Hope Taft. Designed to depict the five diverse physiographic regions of the state of Ohio including the Lake and Till Plains, the Allegheny and Appalachian Plateaus and the Bluegrass Region, each garden features unique plant and geologic material. Visitors can explore such diverse areas as sand dunes, a cranberry bog and alvar rock garden.

The Heritage Garden also highlights Ohio resources, industry and natural habitats. The water garden represents the 44,000 miles of Ohio waterways; the county walkway features stones and bricks from each of the individual 88 counties of Ohio and the Governor’s Grove features trees planted by Governors who have occupied the Residence.

An emphasis on conservation can be found throughout the grounds. The Carriage House is fitted with Ohio-made solar panel arrays that generate energy for the carriage house and return electricity to the power grid. The permeable driveway was built in 2007 and serves to reduce storm water runoff while two 1,600 gallon cisterns collect rain from the gutters to help provide water for the Heritage Garden.