Our annual tour of members' gardens will be held on April 21, leaving promptly from the front of the Independence Center at 9 a.m. Note that this is a one-time change from our usual meeting date. Marvel at what can be grown in the Mojave Desert to perfection—everything from cacti to roses, yuccas and agaves to irises and hummingbird plants—and give your home curb appeal and serenity. Talk to the seven hosts to find out their secrets to success. You will also learn what product is best at discouraging depredations by Elmer Fudd's "wascally wabbits" and where to buy it.

At May's meeting, following a delicious picnic buffet catered by Bell's Barbecue and held in the Independence Courtyard, a slide show of the gardens tour will be presented indoors. Just before we shut down to shelter from the heat of July and August, Master Gardener Glenda Bona will return in June with about seven others to show us how to grow eight varieties of basil. Then, adding even more spice to the meeting, those in attendance will sample pesto sauce pre-made from each of the eight varieties and vote on the best one. If you are not a member and want to take advantage of these educational and fun opportunities (and free house calls!), we welcome you to enroll as explained below. 

 Dues for 2025 remain $15; checks may be made payable exactly to: Sun City Anthem Community Association, Inc. with “Garden Club’ on the memo line. Enrollment forms are also available at the Anthem Center kiosk, at meetings, and on our website (https://garden.scaclub.org). Deposit the form in the Garden Club mailbox located outside Anthem's Fitness Center along with your check payable as above. Feel free to email any questions about the Club to its president, Dr. Alec Pridgeon (apridg1@gmail.com).