Growing Together: Hidden Gardeners Haven at SENMC

(CARLSBAD, NM) Over the summer, we hosted a series of workshops called Green Thumb 101, and I can honestly say it was one of the most rewarding projects we’ve worked on. We weren’t sure how many people would be interested, but each session brought a great mix of students, employees, and community members who were genuinely excited to learn and sha

re. Whether it was choosing the right plants or figuring out the best way to water them, people showed up ready to get involved and that energy really stuck with us.That’s where the idea for the Hidden Gardeners Haven came from. 

Thanks to a great partnership with the Eddy County Health Council, we’re starting something that goes beyond workshops. The Hidden Gardeners Haven is a space where anyone, whether you're new to gardening or have years of experience, can gather, connect, and grow something meaningful together.

We’ll be meeting once a month in the SENMC Hidden Garden (behind the Main Building, near the back parking lot and the central stairway entrance.), and instead of formal workshops, these gatherings will be more casual and community driven. It’s a time for us to check in on the garden, share gardening tips and ideas, ask questions, and exchange plants or cuttings. If you have a plant that’s struggling or one that’s thriving and you'd like to trade, bring it! If you're not sure what to grow next season, come talk it out with someone who’s been there. Our meetings will take place on the second Monday of each month in the afternoon. For Fall 2025, the meeting dates are: September 8, October 13, November 10, and December 8.

This space is meant to be hands-on, flexible, and welcoming. We’ll also take time during each visit to take care of the garden together, watering, weeding, harvesting, and/or whatever the garden needs that day. It’s not just about growing plants; it’s about growing a community that values sustainability, wellness, and being outside in a meaningful way. This isn’t a class. There’s no pressure. It’s just a space for people who want to connect and contribute, one plant, one conversation, one season at a time. If you’re interested in joining, just scan the QR code on the flyer and fill out the quick form to sign up. After that, you’ll start getting updates on meeting dates and times. 

And if you missed the summer series, don’t worry! We’re already working on the Fall 2025 Gardening Workshops, so be on the lookout for those as well. The new topics will focus more on seasonal gardening and community-driven ideas, based on feedback we received this summer.

Thanks again to everyone who has helped shape this project so far. I hope you’ll consider joining us, whether you’re a master gardener or just looking for a new hobby, the Hidden Gardeners Haven is for you.

Feel free to reach out if you have questions or want to get involved in other ways:
Raymond Dominguez
575.234.9260
rdominguez@senmc.edu

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