Gardening is quite literally in my “roots.” My great-great grandfather was one of the gardeners for the Queen (of England, that is) at her summer residence ~ Balmoral Castle in Scotland. Being of Scottish and Irish relatives, gardening was a way of life by keeping small kitchen gardens. I was bitten by the bug at an early age watching my Scottish mother’s love of flower gardening. As I grew, I was allowed to utilize parts of our yard for my own garden ~ such a joy for me.

The passion of growing and tending plants has been an integral part of my life. I’ve been gardening for over 40 years. It was important to not only garner hands on experience, but to maintain a sound knowledge of horticulture. I joined the CSU Jefferson County Master Gardener Program in 1987. After a short sabbatical to raise my family and earn my bachelor’s degree in education, I rejoined the Extension program in 2014. I have a certification in home landscape design, created and taught several elementary and high school horticulture programs. Achieved my Colorado Certified Nursery Professional (CCNP) certification in 2017.

Currently, I spend my working hours in my garden design business and a local garden center/nursery in Littleton. Both allow me to focus my passion in teaching, writing, growing, creating and designing with plants. My volunteer work through the CSU Jefferson County Speaker’s Bureau helps bring current, research based garden/landscape information to Colorado residents.