Why I Became a Master Gardener

by Mike Hogan, Hall County Master Gardener, Class of 2023

Have you ever looked at plants and wondered about all the processes at work that enable you to plant a seed and in just a relatively short period of time, enjoy a red, juicy tomato or fill a vase with beautiful flowers? From my youth, I was hooked on seeing a seed, measuring just fractions of an inch, grow into a plant as much as 500 times larger than the seed itself. You may have had that same experience or perhaps you came to gardening in a different way but never feel like you understand why your hydrangeas are pink instead of blue when you know you bought the blues ones at the nursery. There is much to understand and know about day-to-day gardening that happens without us never knowing why.  But what would happen if we understood why things happen in our gardens so that we have a chance at making a difference? That is part of what becoming a master gardener is all about.

While it is not necessary to fully understand all that is involved in going from seed to a mature plant in order to enjoy the process, there are those who find it fascinating to know what goes on behind the scenes. Starting with the soil and what makes up the “dirt” used to grow our plants, the master gardener will learn about nutrition, pests, light requirements, irrigation and so much more. Some of the pleasure in learning is to help make the master gardener better able to make the most of your own gardening efforts. And equally important, the master gardener will learn all these things and more so that you can spread the word throughout the community about how to be a better gardener. Master gardeners participate in projects to beautify and benefit the community, whether it be a demonstration garden to show off nature’s beauty or to grow vegetables to help those in the community who are less fortunate. Sometimes the learning is hands-on while other times the master gardener may use their expertise in educating others in a formal setting. Once you become a master gardener, how you share your knowledge is up to you to decide. The important thing is that you get to share your newfound gardening knowledge in ways that you may not have imagined.

One of the best parts of becoming a master gardener has been that the learning never stops. Opportunities abound to continue learning once your classes are finished. It is safe to say that a lifetime is not enough for all that there is to learn, so if your love is gardening, why not consider becoming a master gardener?

Interested in learning more about becoming a Master Gardener? Check this link. The application process for the 2026 Hall County Master Gardener Class begins in August 2025.