The reported reason for the annual Masters Tour is usually expressed as filling a need for operating expenses for MG projects. But it is more than that. Every new class of budding master gardeners, contains 90% of "would be gardeners". They are called upon to work with the experienced MGs on the "chosen gardens", to put them in shape for public viewing. This experience at the very beginning of their MG life, sometimes while while still in class, is worth every hour spent. Al

I got to the garden tour in Keene NH on June 20. The plant sale in Ashuelot River Park was small but very nice. Enjoyed the tour. Map was pretty clear and frequent bright pink trail markers helped me find all of the gardens. Yesterday I went on the Concord South Church garden tour. This year there were 5 gardens in Bow and Concord so not as spread out as last year. None were professionally designed or maintained but I thought two were exceptional (retired couples sharing the work). Can anyone else report on where they've been?

Greetings from the North American Japanese Garden Association! We are a non-profit that promotes the art, craft and heart of Japanese gardening in USA and Canada. We will be in Minnesota from August 7 to 8 for a two-day event to help gardeners elevate and maintain the quality of their Japanese gardens all-year round in a way that is also sensitive to regional requirements. Event facilitator John Powell is the first Westerner to be invited to train with the garden staff of the prestigious Adachi Museum of Art, widely acknowledged as having one of the world's best Japanese gardens. Just as importantly, he brings his region-specific knowledge as the Japanese garden consultant for two of the five Minnesota Japanese gardens that will host this event. For more information and to register, visit http://najga.org/2015-Minnesota-event or read our official press release.

Plymouth (MA) Garden Club. Our plant sale is this Saturday May 21 from 9 to noon at the Chiltonville Congregational Church 6 River St Plymouth MA. We have very nice plants both divisions and starts carefully tagged and packed, as well as kitchen treats, attic treasures and boutique items. Come early for best selection. Benefits scholarships and civic beautification projects in our town. Thanks NH Babs for this thread.