This study describes some basic characteristics of twelve homegardens in the Soconusco region of Chiapas, Mexico, an area that has not previously been a focus of homegarden research. Garden size, plant frequencies and diversity, plant use, and garden management strategies are discussed, and the characteristics of Soconusco gardens are compared with homegardens elsewhere in Mexico and Central America. Variability among Soconusco gardens is also examined. The role of homegardens within the context of traditional agroforestry systems is explored and the potential value of homegarden research for the development of both environmental and socioeconomic programs in the Soconusco region is discussed.