In 1879, Sir John Thurston invited and asked John Horne (Botanist), the Director of Forests and Botanic Gardens in Mauritius to visit and make recommendations for a Botanical Garden. The gardens were originally named Suva Botanical Gardens, but were renamed in 1976 in memory of Sir John Thurston. In 1913 the Gardens were reorganized and drains were laid underground.
In 1879, Sir John Thurston invited John Horne (Botanist), Director of Forests and Botanic Gardens in Mauritius, to visit and make recommendations for a botanical garden. The gardens were initially known as Suva Botanical Gardens but were renamed in 1976 in honor of Sir John Thurston. In 1913, the gardens underwent reorganization and new drainage systems were implemented.