Article Advocacy 1 min read

Brought to You By … Gardens

In sometimes surprising ways, associations play direct and indirect roles in bringing the products, services, and activities of daily life to people around the world. Including gardens.

Julie Shoop

April 1, 2019

Heads up: this content is over 5 years old, so some information may be out of date.

American Horticultural Society

Seeking to illuminate “the vital connection between plants and people,” the American Horticultural Society  (opens in a new tab) serves both professional and home gardeners with education, travel study programs, climate maps, and other resources. Through its website, AHS helps connect gardeners to the network of Master Gardeners in every state who share their knowledge with local communities.

Ecological Landscape Alliance

The Ecological Landscape Alliance  (opens in a new tab) advocates for sustainable landscaping and horticultural practices that respect natural ecosystems. Professional landscapers and home gardeners who want to use fewer pesticides and fertilizers, support plant biodiversity, encourage pollinating insects, and conserve native plants will find community and resources at ELA.

American Community Gardening Association

Ready to get your hands dirty in a local community garden? An interactive map from the American Community Gardening Association  (opens in a new tab) can pinpoint one near you. ACGA has garden-management tips, how-to manuals, and advice on local community-garden advocacy for green thumbs everywhere.

Correction: The original version of this story indicated that the American Horticultural Society trains Master Gardeners. They get their training from state Extension Service offices. We regret the error.

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Julie Shoop

Julie Shoop is a former editor-in-chief of Associations Now in Washington, DC.