Press Release from Central Alabama Master Gardeners Association

Since Thursday, March 1, River Region gardeners can find answers to their gardening questions by calling the Master Gardener Helpline in Wetumpka. Questions about gardening, growing fruits and veggies at home, flowers, landscapes, trees, insects, backyard wildlife and more will find answers by talking to Central Alabama Master Gardeners’ Association (CAMGA) members between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on through the end of August. By calling 1-800-319-8130, area gardeners can ask their questions. In many cases, the answers will be given during this phone call. In some instances, the CAMGA members on the Helpline may have to do some additional research and call the gardener back. The Master Gardener Helpline is a service of Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES).

CAMGA Helpline Coordinator Amanda Edwards, Wetumpka, is "always impressed by the thoroughness and dedication of the CAMGA members who provide the answers to a huge range of questions each year during the growing season."

Edwards herself feels strong passion for helping area gardeners become more successful in their efforts.

"Over the past few years we’ve seen a dramatic up-tick in the number of calls the Helpline receives. With that increased interest in gardening, we CAMGA members will do everything possible to help foster that interest by providing as much help as possible," Edwards added.

CAMGA has nearly 100 members, primarily from Elmore, Autauga and Montgomery Counties, and meets monthly (primarily at the ACES facilities on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka). More information about CAMGA and Master Gardeners may be obtained by calling the ACES office at (334) 567-8604.