Tennessee Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc.
State Headquarters

In 2003, the 3.5 acre garden, begun by Ivan Racheff on the grounds of the Knoxville Iron Works, was certified as a Level I Arboretum by the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council.  Thirty-two species of trees on the property were correctly identified and labeled with common and botanical names.  Many of the trees in the Arboretum today were planted by Mr. Racheff.  Throughout the years, more trees have been planted.  Now, over 65 species of trees have been identified and labeled.  The Racheff Arboretum is currently certified as a Level II Arboretum. The garden is primarily a Spring garden and has its finest displays at that time.  There are, however, other features, such as a Japanese Garden, Fern Cobble, Wildflower Area, Children's Garden and plantings of azaleas and rhododendrons, that can be enjoyed during the other times of the year.  In addition, a registered Monarch Waystation and Pollinator Garden was established in 2016, which is an ongoing project expanding each year.  

There is a TFGC Memorial Wall in the upper gardens honoring past TFGC Presidents and members who were committed to the preservation and beauty of the Gardens and also a Blue Star Memorial and Garden honoring all Armed Forces of the United States of America.

The Racheff Arboretum promotes the esthetics of trees in the landscape with emphasis on highlighting the species that are most successful in this area.