Ever wonder why something’s not working quite right, or you just want to hang out with other plant loving people…. You need to check out your local Master Gardener groups. They are awesome! I’ve learned so much from these groups. Most states have local gardening groups, ours has a Master Gardener program run by the University. I’ve attended so many free courses and gained so much knowledge… it’s CRAZY! Every time I go to an event, I come away with so many new ideas, friends and contacts that I get so pumped for Spring to arrive. Many Master Gardener groups hold their classes in the Winter and Early Spring, so you can get all your plans in place for the growing season. I’ve attended classes on growing blueberries, grape growing for wine, maple syrup harvesting, drip irrigation, attracting butterflies, canning & preserving, Hügelkultur, Permaculture, growing peppers and many more! Our group also holds a low-cost Spring Garden Expo where I’ve taken advanced classes in grape growing, container growing, grafting and trellising, just to name a few.
Another great benefit of a Master Gardener group is the PLANT SALES! And who doesn’t love a great plant sale. I know I always buy more than I can really handle or have a place to plant. I’ve scored great deals on everything from strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, asparagus, onions, rhubarb and annuals. The other benefit, besides the cost, is that the Master Gardeners are there to help you succeed. I’ve had several Master Gardeners help read my soil test and recommend beneficial “adds” to my gardens and containers. I’ve gone to pickup my plants, only to sit there for an hour or more chatting with an expert down the road to combat the Spotted Wing Drosophila in my raspberry patch. Learning from someone who’s already dealt with the issue is priceless.
That leads me to my last comment on Master Gardener groups. These groups are a wealthy of knowledge since our Master Gardeners have “been there… done that.” They know the area, the soils, the climate patterns and the pests… all of which play a significant role in the success of one’s garden. It’s basically having a group of people that can help guide you through the ups and downs and help you to avoid the pitfalls. Why reinvent the wheel if you don’t have to! By joining, or even just participating in their gardening events, you’ll catapult your growing by leaps and bounds, yield bigger harvests, and be able to work smarter, not harder in your garden… year after year. They are a great group to help with all your gardening needs from container gardening to small plot and large gardens. So, check out your local Master Gardener group. You’ll love it! Happy Gardening!
