North Carolina Cooperative Extension – Clay County Center, the Clay County Extension Master Gardener Volunteers, the Town of Hayesville, and a Hayesville High School agriculture class recently came together to install over 50 plants at Mayor’s Garden in Downtown Hayesville.
The project was a collaborative effort focused on both beautification and education. By bringing together local students, volunteers, and community partners, the planting day created an opportunity to improve a public space while also teaching practical gardening skills that students can use in the future. Native plants were selected by local landscaper, Linda Milt, for their value in the landscape and their ability to support pollinators and other wildlife, while also helping showcase plants that are well-suited to local growing conditions.
During the installation, Extension Master Gardener Volunteers worked side by side with the students to demonstrate proper planting techniques. Students learned how to prepare each planting hole, make appropriate soil amendments, position plants correctly, and water them thoroughly to encourage healthy establishment. The hands-on experience gave students a chance to apply agricultural and horticultural concepts outside the classroom while seeing how those skills connect to real community projects.
The effort also highlights the value of partnerships in building stronger communities. Through the support of the Town of Hayesville and the involvement of local volunteers and educators, Mayor’s Garden continues to serve as a visible example of how public spaces can be used for education, beautification, and community engagement. Projects like this help connect youth to agriculture and horticulture while encouraging stewardship of local landscapes.
The planting at Mayor’s Garden reflects a shared commitment to education, service, and community improvement. As the plants grow and fill in, they will serve as a lasting reminder of what can be accomplished when local organizations, schools, volunteers, and town leaders work together toward a common goal.
The Hayesville High School FFA will be hosting its annual plant sale on April 24 from 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM at the greenhouse next to the football field. All proceeds will go towards benefitting their program.
The Clay County Master Gardeners will be having their annual plant sale May 15-17 at the Downtown Discovery Garden. Friday & Saturday, the sale will run 9 AM – 3 PM, and Sunday, 1 PM – 3 PM. All proceeds benefit the Extension Master Gardener community programs.
