Who knew that canna lilies attract June bugs or that what grows in the dark rich soil in Savannah may not grow in the red clay dirt in Atlanta? It seems that geography is everything when it comes to gardening and the balance of nature is important to all life. Such is true for Fayette County as we benefit from the mission of the Fayette Master Gardener Association (FMGA) to add beauty and horticultural knowledge to our community.
Master gardeners, friends of master gardeners, and anyone who has an interest in horticulture make up the membership of this lush and ever-blooming organization. Carol Gordon, FMGA's past president, and current recording secretary proudly shares, "We have young people who are just learning. Our youngest member just graduated from high school and plans to study horticulture in college."
The FMGA provides volunteers and financial aid for projects that meet their fundamental values of volunteerism and education. These projects make a difference in our community by promoting selfless service in community beautification and extending horticultural opportunities to all in Fayette County. Myriam Cousin, FMGA's current president emphasizes the significance of the organization's efforts. "We work hard to educate people and to create beauty in the community. We provide opportunities for people to be inspired."
Since its inception in 2008, FMGA continues to operate solely by volunteers. The absence of paid staff instills a high degree of ownership to provide exceptional educational programs and meaningful membership experiences. The flower garden planted directly in front of the downtown Fayetteville mural is just one example of how FMGA beautifully impacts our community.
FMGA hosts monthly meetings that include lectures highlighting various gardening interests. These lectures are free and open to the public. Join them at 225 Willowbend Road in Peachtree City at 10 AM for an exciting lineup in August and September.
August 16 - Speaker: Rose Guerra, Atlanta Naturalist & Environmental Educator. Topic: Dragonflies 101 - Basics and fun facts about dragonflies with a focus on those most common in our area. Covers gardening to attract these jewel-like, mosquito-eating machines.
September 20 - Speaker: Larry Dove, owner and operator of Two Doves Farms in Fayetteville. Topic: What to Plant When You Are Growing Nothing - Using Cover Crops to Regenerate Soil.
Local schools and youth-serving organizations can apply for grants to fund horticultural projects. FMGA works with grant recipients to help make proper selections on what to plant and how, and to ensure good stewardship of funds. Grant application details and membership information can be found at fayettemga.org.
The organization's annual fundraisers are community favorites - the Plant Sale held in April, and the Garden Tour held in May. Both events raise funds, increase awareness, and provide inspiration for beautiful gardens. Follow FMGA on Facebook to nurture your green thumb @Fayette Master Gardeners Association.
