One of the many pleasures of studying to become a Master Gardener is spending time in the company of other people who share a passion for gardening.  Besides being great company, they each possess a varying range of gardening experience and knowledge.  Through casual conversations I’ve picked up so many helpful gardening tips while becoming acquainted with a wonderful new group of individuals.

 There’s a camaraderie among gardeners unparalleled to any other avocation.  Perhaps it’s because gardeners are natural nurturers.  The care and attention they give to encouraging plants to grow and flourish they extend to people as well. 

If you love gardening and enjoy the company of fellow gardeners, consider applying to the 2014 Master Gardener program when the application becomes available in the fall.  You’ll get a wonderful education as well as an opportunity to network with fellow gardeners.  Or if you don’t have the time to pursue the program at the moment, think about joining a local gardening club.  Solano County is fortunate to have several local general and specialty gardening clubs.  Here are just a few examples.

 Horticulture Club at Solano Community College

Membership is open to any community member.  You do not need to be a student at the college.  The club meets the third Monday of each month.  For information, contact Ken Williams at (707) 975-6856.

Vallejo Garden Club

Meets the 3^rd Saturday of each month.  Contact vallejogardenclub@gmail.com for more information.

 Willis Linn Jepson Chapter of the California Native Plant Society

More information can be found on their website at http://cnpsjepson.dreamhosters.com/

 Geranium City Garden Club

Meets the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at the Fairfield Senior Center.

 These are just a sample of the many garden clubs in Solano County.  Check out the California Garden Clubs website at www.californiagardenclubs.com for information on additional garden clubs in the area.