Colorado Master Gardener℠ (CMG) volunteers are a dedicated group of individuals who are knowledgeable and passionate about sharing gardening, landscape and horticulture education. This month we are highlighting Kathi Thistlethwaite.

When did you join the Colorado Master Gardener program and why did you join?

2018 – Joining CMG was a gift I gave myself after retiring from the financial industry. I also have a very supportive husband.

What is your favorite activity and why?

Functioning as one of the team leads at Hudson Gardens Vegetable Garden. It’s such a beautiful garden and the donation of our produce to Integrated Family Community Services is as rewarding an experience as I have known. Meeting the CMGs and apprentices who volunteer with us has been such fun! We work hard together and are passionate about what we do.

What is your favorite part of the program and why?

I enjoy the ZOOM webinars and meetings, even if COVID was one of the primary reasons for the virtual format. It’s relaxing at my kitchen table with my kitten and a cup of coffee to go with a class or meeting!

How has being a Master Gardener helped you personally and in what way?

My gardening skills have increased exponentially, which is not a surprise. That was the reason for becoming a Master Gardener in the first place. What is surprising to me is the confidence that is coming from those skills. It has made me more outgoing and able to share the resources I have access to as a Master Gardener.

Finish this sentence. In my own garden…

I’ve been transitioning to more perennials and native plants. Five years ago, I didn’t know what they were, why they were important and how to use them. I’ve always considered myself a life-long learner and am just scratching the surface of the beauty and science of gardening. THANK YOU CMGs.

Any other thoughts to share with the public…

I cherish the friendships I’ve formed.