Darren's Digest – August 2021

What does it mean to a Master Gardener volunteer? The Master Gardener experience is based on continuous learning and growing skills by doing.

During the past year I have written down some comments from Ramsey County Master Gardener volunteers that highlight what it means to be a Master Gardener volunteer.

• I have learned a lot because of all the plants I've killed over the years;

• I have observed, experimented and learned through many years of growing vegetables,

• By participating in different projects I have been able to learn-by-doing and grow as a volunteer.

They all boil down to a single result: Because of these experiences, I am a better gardener and I can help others avoid the mistakes I once made .

The following video below is an interesting perspective on "The Secrets to Becoming a Master Gardener."

In the video the volunteer describes his thoughts on the process on becoming a Master Gardener:

1. Acquire knowledge

2. Practice and Experiment

3. Learn

4. Repeat

I would add that another part of the Master Gardener Volunteer experience between #3 and #4:

• Share and educate others to connect with the community around us.

Keep on learning, growing and sharing!

Darren Lochner

RCMG Program Coordinator

Aug 11, 2021