Spotlight on . . . Jennifer Rauschmayer, Master Gardener

by Dawn Oldfield, CCMGA Public Relations Chairperson

A graduate of the Master Gardener training class of 2020, Jennifer Rauschmayer is a busy gardener with endless energy, talent and interests. When not volunteering for CCMGA, Jennifer spends her time installing kitchen gardens and sustainable landscapes with her company GROW Edible Landscape Design, or working in her own backyard urban farm.

Jennifer shares, “My passion for gardening began in 2007 when my children outgrew their sandbox and I turned it into a vegetable garden!  As the years passed, my garden grew, and I became passionate about organic gardening, sustainability, and conservation.  In 2016 I received my certification in Permaculture Landscape Design (a form of organic gardening). It was through that certification, I learned about the Master Gardener Program.  I was impressed with Master Gardeners dedication to Earth-Kind® research and found it to be the perfect complement to my Permaculture practice. In addition, I was excited by the many opportunities to volunteer and teach others in the community about gardening.”

Jennifer is the Co-Lead for The Heritage Farmstead Museum Kitchen Garden in Plano. Jennifer says, “The Kitchen Garden demonstrates what (and how) people grew in their home gardens in Texas in the 1890’s. I love speaking with adults and children who visit the garden about how to grow their own food. The Heritage Farmstead is an important part of Plano and Collin County history. I love that I’m able to contribute my knowledge and help tell the story of our early community.”

When she’s not volunteering at the Heritage Farmstead Kitchen Garden, Jennifer smiles, “You’ll find me assisting at public events, taking additional master gardener classes, or with my hands in the dirt of course!”

Jennifer adds, “One of the best things about CCMGA is meeting and learning from other people who are passionate about gardening.  There is always something new to learn.  It requires dedication to receive your Master Gardner Certification, but the time and effort is worth it for the knowledge you receive, the friendships you gain, and the good you provide to the community.”