Local master gardener says hobby is about fun

Local master gardener says hobby is about fun: "Local master gardener says hobby is about fun

By HILLARY S. MEEKS, Features Editor

Sunday, March 05, 2006
'Gardening is not a secret handshake.'
At least, that's according to the philosophy of local master gardener Floyd Anderson. He is the one responsible for brightening up a portion of Lafayette Street with extensive landscaping. Chances are most locals are familiar with his large, yellow Victorian-style home situated close to the downtown square.
All along the sidewalk in front of his butter-colored house are rows of perky, bright petunias, and in front are beautiful winter vegetables such as cabbage and spinach. A tire swing hangs from the branches of one large tree, and a snow white cat pokes its nose around a variety of plants surrounding the structure.
While Anderson's garden is a pretty sight for the eyes, it's just not one of those sculpted, tightly-controlled gardens. There's a certain amount of respect he holds for his plants' inherent tendencies which makes the landscape seem more natural. For example, he admires instead of abhors the little winter onion weeds in his grass because he knows, soon enough, the grass is going to take over as the temperatures rise.
He knows all the names - scientific and layman - of his beloved foliage, as well as origin, background and of course, each plants preferences.
Actually, between last year's drought and a long absence from his home, Anderson said his garden is in worse shape than ever. Though he does say, with a tinge of excitement in his voice, 'Just wait until May, you're mouth will drop open like a two-dollar suitcase when you see it.'
Despite the fact he earned a degree in agr"