Residents of Union County now have the opportunity to receive expert gardening advice at no cost, thanks to a helpline managed by trained Master Gardener volunteers. This initiative aims to assist locals with various gardening challenges, from pest identification to soil enhancement.
The helpline is a collaborative effort between the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Union County. Residents can reach out for help by calling 908-654-9852, emailing mastergardeners@ucnj.org, or visiting the Master Gardeners’ headquarters located at 151 Grant Street in Berkeley Heights.
The service covers a broad spectrum of horticultural questions, catering to inquiries about:
- Plant diseases and pests
- Lawn care
- Composting
- Fertilization techniques
- Vegetable and flower gardening
- Selecting native and pollinator-friendly plants
- Pruning and watering methods
- Soil management strategies
Goda Dattatreya, who leads the helpline’s team of volunteers, expressed enthusiasm for the service. “Whether you’re a new gardener wondering when to plant tomatoes, or you’re dealing with pests or yellowing leaves, our volunteers are ready to help,” she stated.
All advice provided through the helpline is grounded in Rutgers University’s science-based curriculum, complemented by the volunteers’ extensive field knowledge. Residents who choose to email the helpline are encouraged to attach photos of the plants, pests, or issues they are facing, which helps volunteers offer more accurate assistance.
The helpline operates on a schedule that varies by season. It is available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on Fridays until 1 p.m. from April to November. During the winter months, from December to March, the service is open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., while Friday hours remain until 1 p.m.
“This helpline is part of our mission to support residents with accurate, research-based information that’s tailored to local conditions,” said Pat Paul, a Cranford resident and president of the Master Gardeners program.
In addition to the helpline, Union County is set to launch a Master Gardeners training program in January 2026, designed for residents eager to learn about gardening and community service. This program runs from early January through May at the Trailside Nature and Science Center and includes horticultural education, hands-on training, and opportunities for community outreach.
“Our Master Gardeners training program is an excellent way for residents to contribute to bettering our planet and give back to their community, while doing something they enjoy,” commented Union County Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, who oversees the Rutgers Cooperative Extension.
Furthermore, Master Gardener volunteers maintain a 1.5-acre demonstration garden at the Trailside Nature & Science Center in Mountainside. This garden is open to visitors on Saturday mornings, weather permitting, and offers guided tours and seasonal events by arrangement, providing the community with practical insights on gardening.
The Master Gardener program is part of the Rutgers Cooperative Extension, a partnership that includes Rutgers University, Union County, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, all aimed at promoting environmentally responsible gardening practices. This collaborative effort not only enriches the local gardening community but also fosters sustainable practices among residents.
In summary, the helpline and training programs represent the Union County’s dedication to empowering residents with the tools and knowledge needed to cultivate their green spaces effectively. With support from Master Gardener volunteers, both novice and experienced gardeners can thrive, contributing positively to the county’s horticultural landscape.
