This summer (2025), our program will begin recruiting community members to apply to become UC Master Gardener volunteers in Stanislaus County. If you aren't familiar with our program, you may be wondering how does someone become a UC Master Gardener, what do they do, and why? Follow our Get to Know Series for answers to these and other questions!
Terry, can you tell us what inspired you to become a UC Master Gardener?
It’s difficult to pin down one thing that made me want to become a Master Gardener, but if I had to choose, it would be my love for all growing things. I am never happier than when I am in a thriving garden, watching the bees buzz about, smelling the wet earth, and the fragrance of flowers and herbs. Want to make this lady happy? Buy me some plants! So, I wanted to take that love to the next level by not only helping myself to learn more about plants, pests, and gardening, but I wanted to be able to share that knowledge with others. The UC Master Gardener program offered through our local Cooperative Extension Office was a perfect fit.
How has being a UC Master Gardener changed your approach to gardening?
Before I became a UC Master Gardener my garden was usually a disorganized bit of chaos – and not in a good way. I didn’t have any type of plan, tried to grow things out of season, etc. After becoming a UC Master Gardener I was armed with the information and ability to better research the needs of each plant, understand its growing season and needs, and I began to plan my gardens in such a way that I set myself up for success instead of failure. Not only was I able to do these things on my own, but I also now had a network of other knowledgeable individuals to bounce ideas off of, ask questions, and have fun discussing our own plants and gardens.
As we approach spring, what’s currently sprouting or blooming in your garden?
Daffodils!! It was quite a surprise seeing them breaking out and blooming under an overgrown bougainvillea. Their happy yellow flowers made me smile!
Do you have a specialty area in gardening that you’re particularly passionate about?
I am very passionate about herb gardening. Before I became a UC Master Gardener, I was an herbalist, and I also adore cooking with fresh ingredients. Growing herbs seemed to be a natural progression from both of those pursuits. Little did I know how much I would enjoy growing them! While they are, in my opinion, some of the easiest plants to start your gardening journey with, they are not without their pitfalls, (I still can’t grow a decent dill plant as they seem to be my sacrifice to every aphid within a 5-mile range.)
Where can I find out more about becoming a UC Master Gardener in Stanislaus County? Visit our website at https://ucanr.edu/site/ucce-master-gardeners-stanislaus-county/become-ucce-master-gardener