When did you first find out you were interested in gardening?
"I grew up with grandparents who gardened; my grandmother was an independent woman who like doing many things herself...earliest memories involve turnips...we would wash them at the pump and eat them raw!"

What has been your greatest accomplishment as a Master Gardener?
"Getting the Master Gardener group started in Rockbridge County."

What type of projects have you invested most of your time in?
"Working as a market gardener and selling my products at a food co-op...working at a farmers’ market and with a caterer. I have also been president of the VA Assoc. of Biological Farming for the past 5 years."

What year did you graduate from the Master Gardener training class?
"1983/1984."

What is your favorite aspect of the Master Gardener program?
"Working at the extension office on Mondays answering questions and heading the team at the one of the district locations...learning from people who have been here a long time. I always learn from questions asked by others."

In what area of gardening would you say you're most experienced in?
"I’ve grown potatoes, at least 12 varieties and harvested small ones about the size of a half dollar. Also many varieties of okra, which is a big accomplishment since the climate that I live in does not provide the most ideal conditions for okra to grow. In our Master Gardener course, I teach IPM, weed and insect management, so I like to keep up with these topics."

What advice would you give to new gardeners?
"Don’t be intimdated by the knowledge around you. Information is always available to you from the extension office, other Master Gardeners, and the labs at Virginia Tech."

Is there anything else you would like to say?
"I am glad to have had the opportunity to be a part of the Master Gardener program. Also, over the years, I have enjoyed seeing the many improvements to our handbooks."