From Joan Driver:
All my life I’ve admired beautiful plants and appreciated fresh produce. Both sets of grandparents were nearing the end of their gardening years while I was still too young to be of use. Teaching and rearing three children kept my adult years full except in summer, and trying to start plants in midsummer Texas heat can be a challenge, at best. I believed my thumb was permanently black. Until retirement. I was making inquiries about a flower issue for a friend and was referred to a person called a “Master Gardener.” Sounded impressive. I learned that Master Gardeners serve as a volunteer association of the Texas Agrilife Extension Service. They use learning opportunities in all areas of horticulture to benefit public service projects as well as their own interests. I applied for the upcoming series of classes and, to my delight, was accepted. The training was intensive but not difficult, and I learned that much of success with plants just depends on the right plant for the right location in the right conditions. Eleven years later I’m still not the “master” Master Gardener in comparison with some other members of Free State Master Gardeners, but I know more than I did. I’ve had such a good time learning about plants and insects. I’ve had the satisfaction of sharing knowledge with children and adults in a variety of settings. I’ve added landscaping and beds of flowers to my own yard until my daughters tease me that I’ll have no lawn left to mow. And I’ve made wonderful new friends. You too can become a participant in these learning and service opportunities. Many counties have a Master Gardeners organization. A new class for the Van Zandt County unit begins in January. For a truly modest fee the intern gardener attends one class a week in Canton for 16 weeks and participates in a wealth of learning opportunities. Volunteer service reinforces learning and helps interns become better acquainted with the organization and its members. And honestly, you’ll rarely meet a nicer bunch of folks. Interested? Don’t think too long! The deadline for the 2019 class is November 20. Call 903-567-4149 to find out more. I’m glad I did! #FreeStateMasterGardeners