Author Bobby J. Ward

The timing for the release of Bobby Ward’s new book\’a0Chlorophyll \’a0in His Veins, J.C. Raulston, Horticultural Ambassador, could not be better.  With a recent visit of more than 500 garden writers visiting the JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University in Raleigh, North Carolina, there was no doubt many who did not know this man, yet most left wanting to know more.

Likewise, each year, thousands of visitors come the to JC Raulston Arboretum with many others wanting to know more. \’a0Now we have a resource available to learn about the man who changed the face of our landscapes.

My copy is waiting for to me.  I cannot wait to begin to see how this one man, albeit smart, generous, kind and engaging, could have changed the way homeowners garden.  Bobby will tell us all about it.

From Bobby Ward’s, book jacket – J. C. Raulston was the most important and influential figure in American horticulture in the latter part of the twentieth century. His passion for promoting new plants for landscapes was unmatched. As a teacher at Texas A&M and at North Carolina State University, he gave generously of his time to students, profoundly influencing their lives, altering career paths and personal directions. He saw potential in both plants and students. Against many obstacles, he succeeded in establishing the North Carolina State University Arboretum that now bears his name. Chlorophyll in His Veins is an intimate biography, celebrating the life and accomplishments of one of the most-loved gardening personalities.

I have the honor of sitting of the Board of Advisors for the JC Raulston Arboretum.  Equally as important in my life is serving as the volunteer Leader (formally known as curator) of the Winter Garden along with other members of the Raleigh Garden Club and the Butterfly Garden along with horticultural youths; a group of young girls who already know in their early teens, they want to persue a degree in horticulture.

Full disclosure:  Bobby Ward is a dear friend and I’m a big fan of his writing. I have looked forward to the release of J.C.’s book since I learned he was writing it.

Helen Yoest is a garden writer and coach through her business Gardening with Confidence

Follow Helen on Twitter @HelenYoest and her facebook friend page, Helen Yoest or Gardening With Confidence\’99 Face Book Fan Page.

Helen also serves on the board of advisors for the JC Raulston Arboretum