News

By Kamryn Findlay
Program Manager, Extended Learning

Gardening is not just about planting seeds; it’s about nurturing knowledge and cultivating a deeper connection with nature. For Shirley Thorn, becoming a Master Gardener in training has been a transformative experience. Her goal was to learn how to create and sustain healthy, eco-friendly gardens without the constant struggle of overwhelming labor, allowing her to truly enjoy her gardening experience.

Shirley chose the Dalhousie University Faculty of Agriculture’s program after a warm reception while exploring the courses. She noted, “The friendliness of the staff made a huge difference. I felt at ease right away, confident that this program would equip me with the essential tools I needed to design and maintain healthy gardens.”

So far, she has completed two of the four required courses for the Ontario Master Gardener Training Program and has been pleasantly surprised by the informative material. “Each week brings a new layer of understanding,” she shared. The highlight of her experience has been the interactive sessions with Instructor Carol Goodwin.

Shirley explained, “Carol’s approach invites a diversity of questions and discussions, enriching our learning. It’s not just about absorbing information; it’s about engaging with it.” This interaction has elevated her learning experience, helping her gain confidence in practical skills like plant propagation, soil amendment, and pruning.

Eco-friendly fall clean-up with perennials left standing and seed pods uncut

One of the most rewarding aspects for Shirley has been learning to identify and manage weeds. “Previously, I viewed insects in my garden as nuisances that needed to be eliminated. Now, I take the time to observe and determine which ones are beneficial,” she said. This shift in perspective has deepened her appreciation for the ecosystem within her garden.

Recently, Shirley finished designing and building a new garden area. Preparing the soil for this project was a labor of love, but the courses gave her the confidence to tackle it. She learned how to select plants that are not only pollinators but also well-suited for the specific conditions of her rock garden.

The success Shirley has experienced is directly linked to the knowledge she gained through the program. “I’m pleased to say that I managed to stay on budget throughout the project, which is a testament to the practical skills I’ve developed,” she stated.

For anyone interested in gardening, Shirley wholeheartedly recommends the Faculty of Agriculture Master Gardener Training program. “It’s not just educational; it’s fun! The energetic learning environment allows you to explore a multitude of areas, helping you better manage and maintain your gardens and landscape.”

Equally important, the program encourages participants to envision how they want their gardens to look. “This holistic approach makes gardening a fulfilling and enjoyable endeavor,” Shirley concluded. She is excited to continue her journey and see where her newfound knowledge will take her next.