Plant Societies and Garden Clubs

Former Memphis Horticultural Society President Suzy Askew talks about plant societies and garden clubs. The Memphis Horticultural Society is the umbrella organization over many different plant societies in the Mid-South. The Memphis Horticultural Society brings in monthly guest lecturers from around the country to talk on different topics. Under the Memphis Horticultural Society are many different plant societies that specialize in a specific plant. Local garden clubs are usually affiliated with one of two large organizations: National Garden Clubs, or Garden Club of America. The large national organizations have programs concentrating on various areas like flower arranging, gardening, environmental and conservation, landscape design, and scholarship. If you would like to join a garden club, Suzy recommends that you visit several different clubs and see where your interest lies. You can attend many of the clubs without becoming a member for a small admission fee. Also, some clubs do not require more than annual dues. Don’t worry about not knowing enough to become a member. Suzy is a member of several plant societies and she does not consider herself an expert. She says she learns a little more every time she goes. Another option is to become a master gardener. This is a course offered by the Extension Service. There is a fee and required service hours, but you learn many things about plants.

Related Videos:
Tennessee Master Gardener Program
Community Gardens

Related Resources:
National Garden Clubs
Garden Club of America