Georgia Master Gardeners Association
2024 Conference
2024 Georgia Master Gardeners Association Annual Conference: A Resounding Success in Thinking Globally and Growing Locally
The 2024 Georgia Master Gardeners Association (GMGA) Annual Conference, co-hosted by the Henry County Master Gardeners, proved to be an inspiring and educational event that brought together over 230 gardening enthusiasts from across Georgia and beyond. Held at the Stuckey Conference Center on the UGA Griffin campus, the conference celebrated the 45th anniversary of master gardening with the theme "Think Globally, Grow Locally."
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Attendees were treated to a lineup of distinguished speakers who shared their expertise and passion for sustainable gardening practices. Bestselling author and horticulturist Brie Arthur discussed the concept of "foodscaping," encouraging suburban homeowners to integrate edible plants into their ornamental landscapes. Mario Cambardella, founder of ServeScape, highlighted the importance of local growers' contributions to fostering greener communities. Joe Lamp'l, host of the Emmy-award-winning PBS series "Growing a Greener World," inspired attendees to demystify gardening and cultivate more green thumbs across the globe.
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The event included breakout sessions with additional speakers discussing a variety of gardening topics, as well as informative booths and vendors offering plants, art, and tools. Participants also enjoyed a silent auction and the chance to win door prizes, adding to the excitement of the day.
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Dawn Washington, President of Henry County Master Gardeners, expressed her gratitude for the collaborative effort that made the conference possible. "From beginning to end, starting on Friday with the fabulous UGA tours to our main event on Saturday, we learned, we networked, we ate, we shopped and we made new friends and colleagues," she said. Washington emphasized the shared commitment among attendees to return home and apply their newfound knowledge to make a positive impact on their local communities and the planet.
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The success of the event underscores the growing interest in sustainable gardening practices and the vital role master gardeners play in spreading horticultural knowledge. As participants return to their communities armed with fresh ideas and inspiration, the ripple effects of this event are sure to be felt in gardens across Georgia and beyond.
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The Henry County Master Gardeners and GMGA extend their thanks to all who participated and contributed to this memorable celebration of gardening expertise and environmental stewardship.