Roots of a New Journey: My Path to Becoming a Master Gardener

I am thrilled to share that I've recently been accepted into the Master Gardeners program—a dream come true! This marks the start of an incredible journey into advanced horticulture, and I can’t wait to dig in (literally and figuratively). If you’re like me, with a love for gardening that goes beyond simply planting seeds, you'll understand how exciting this is.

From the thrill of successfully growing a new plant species to troubleshooting soil issues, this hobby has always been deeply fulfilling. Now, I get to learn from experts and connect with other plant enthusiasts who share this same passion for growing.

The program emphasizes sustainable gardening, something I already value in my backyard. I can already see the benefits of learning more efficient composting techniques, water conservation methods, and more. Of course, gardening and food are close cousins, so I’m most excited about the edible gardening classes. I love experimenting with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and peppers straight from the backyard, but I know there's so much more I could be doing. I look forward to learning and potentially growing vegetables that are hard to find at the store or revamping my herb garden.

Becoming a Master Gardener means not only personal growth but giving back. In the coming months, I’ll be dedicating time to community gardens, sharing what I learn, and helping to make green spaces more accessible. There’s something deeply satisfying about sharing the literal fruits of your labor with others, and I hope to inspire others to get their hands in the dirt and experience the same joy. Class begins January 2025 so stay tuned for updates on my journey as I take you along for this ride—learning, growing, and maybe even sharing a recipe or two inspired by my new gardening knowledge!