Gardeners of Wake County

About Us

      The Gardeners of Wake County is a non-profit organization. Our mission is to provide gardening education and horticultural information to our members and the gardening public. The annual Azalea sale held on the third weekend of April is the major fundraiser of the year. Funds raised by the Gardeners of Wake County are used to provide scholarships to NC State students majoring in horticulture, and also for donations to other horticulture related activities in Wake County. To apply for a Horticulture Scholarship, print the application form and follow the directions on the form.        
     The Gardeners of Wake County meets every third Tuesday at 7:30 pm in the Ruby McSwain building at the J.C. Raulston Arboretum on Beryl Rd. in Raleigh, except for the special events held in three months of the year (see special events). Each meeting starts with a short business session followed by a horticulture related program. Plants are brought by members and given away as prizes.. Refreshments and snacks are provided at each meeting.     
     The monthly meetings provide an opportunity for members and visitors to discuss garden problems and exchange ideas about gardening. Many of our members are also Master Gardeners. Visitors are always welcome.

Azalea Sale
The annual Azalea sale is held each year on the second or third weekend in April as a fundraieser for the Gardeners of Wake County.  Approximately one hundred varities of Azaleas in both one gallon and three gallon containers are available during the sale.  This includes over a dozen Encore varities as well as decidious Azaleas.  Proceeds from the sale are usd for Horticulture scholarshipsat NC Statre University.

Summer Picnic
Each summer, the Gardeners of Wake County has a summer picnic for members and their guests.  The Summer Picnic may be a Pig Picking, or some of our members who happen to be master chefs, may prepare the meal.  The meal is usually followed by a plant exchange.  Members who wish to participate in the plant exchange should bring plants to exchage with others. 

Awards Banquet
     The Awards Banquet is for members and invited guests.  This banquet replaces the December monthly meeting.  After the dinner, Club awards, Community Beautification, and Scholarship awards are presented.  There may be a speaker or entertainment following the presentation of the awards.