One of the most rewarding parts of being a Master Gardener is working on community betterment projects
CITYFEST 2016, KIESEL PARK, Auburn, AL
Charlot Ritenbaugh (Class of 2010) gives a young visitor a seed pack and explains how to improve the soil she will use for planting. One tin holds clay soil and the other sandy soil. Mixing these materials with compost they how the texture of the planting mix improves the health of those young seeds. The MG exhibit also included handouts on composting.
Linda Lee, newly joined MG from Georgia, is sharing the seed packs and instructions with a younger visitor.
MG Debbie Murphy, a new member from Florida, is talking about the Blanket Flower that is a North American native, especially in the southeast and a marvelous pollinator attractor. We gave out 100 seed packets--photo and growing instructions included. The seeds' normal bloom time is late summer. The visitors to our booth are holding material about attracting birds, butterflies and bees to gardens.
HOME & GARDEN SHOWS, 2014, 2015 & 2016, Opelika, AL
2014 -- Led by Sarah Fair, we participated in the 1st Home & Garden Show in Opelika, AL. We met many of the estimated 1200 visitors and provided Garden Tour, Membership, Help Line and Class Info to the public. Patrrick Thompson, representing the AU Arboretum, presented info on Native Plants.
2015 -- Led by Raleine Sillman, we again provided valuable horticulture information to the community and advertised our upcoming native plant sale.
2016 -- Again led by Raleine and assisted bys in her mother, Libby Davis and MG Friend, Jan Newton. This year we took the opportunity to announce the biennial Garden Tour again.
We thank our Sponsors !
Tree Planting at the Opelika Sportsplex
Dennis Pinkard, President, leading tree planting efforts in Lee County area. Assisted by Dee Smith, Charlot Ritenbaugh, Kelley Haynes and Sarah Fair.