The Rockwall County Learning Gardens received their first plantings at a ceremony last Wednesday. The Rockwall County Extension Master Gardener Association and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service of Rockwall County hosted the event. It was held between the Rockwall County Courthouse and the Rockwall County Library. Local officials, community leaders and master gardeners took part in the initial planting along the garden's new paths.
The project is meant to give residents a place to learn about gardening, horticulture and landscaping. It offers research-based information and hands-on experience. Organizers said the goal is to make gardening education accessible and to encourage people of all ages to take an interest in growing plants.
The Rockwall County Extension Master Gardener Association, a volunteer group with more than 70 certified Texas Master Gardeners, will maintain the gardens under the direction of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Todd Williams, the AgriLife Extension agent for Rockwall County, said the gardens reflect a shared commitment to hands-on, science-based education. A formal dedication ceremony is planned for next year, after the plantings are established and in full bloom.