We hope you enjoy our Spotlight series. Learn more about who we are and what we do by hearing directly from our program volunteers! This is the second in our Spotlight series. If you missed last month's, you can read it at https://ucanr.edu/blog/stanislaus-sprout/article/get-know-terry-pellegrini-master-gardener-2020
Connie - What inspired you to become a UC Master Gardener?
My grandmother was a Master Gardener and she instilled in me a love of gardening and plants. I started working side by side with her during visits in the summer. I have been hooked on gardening ever since. I wanted to know more about the science behind the magic which was happening in the garden - and to be able to share with other people the knowledge which was science based. When the right chapter opened in my life, I was excited to begin my training through the UC Master Gardener program in Stanislaus County. This has been an enlightening and delightful learning and sharing experience. Plants and people - it doesn't get any better than this!
How has being a UC Master Gardener changed your approach to gardening?
Since studying and becoming a UC Master Gardener, I am learning to approach gardening more holistically, more from an ecosystem approach. I am constantly learning about what works and what doesn't work and the "why" of it. One of my mottos is - You can't bend Nature. That's why it's important to put the right plant in the right place. (Read about "Right Plant, Right Place" at https://ucanr.edu/site/ucce-master-gardeners-stanislaus-county/sustainable-landscaping)
Do you have a specialty area in gardening that you’re particularly passionate about?
I am learning about California native plants and their cultural needs and am experimenting with creating a largely native plant garden. Not only do I enjoy the plants, but I enjoy seeing all the pollinators and birds visiting the garden. I am learning about how and when to prune these plants along with other cultural practices.
What is your favorite plant that is currently sprouting or blooming in your garden?
Right now, I am enamored with the California native plant, Baileya multiradiata or Wild Marigold. This is a small, yellow, daisy-like flower that gets a lot of pollinator action, has soft green foliage, can be used in bouquets and is self-seeding. It replants itself, traveling around my garden, helping create an ever-changing dynamic from season to season. It is a lot of fun!
The UC Master Gardener Program is run through UC Cooperative Extension in Stanislaus County. Learn more by visiting our page at https://ucanr.edu/site/ucce-master-gardeners-stanislaus-county/become-uc-master-gardener-stanislaus-county where you can also
sign up for our interest list.