Mary Marlowe Leverette: Master Gardener with Decades of Expertise and Experience

by Keira August 16, 2021

written by Keira August 16, 2021

Mary Marlowe Leverette: Master Gardener with Decades of Experience

Expertise and Experience

Mary Marlowe Leverette is a highly experienced Master Gardener and orchard owner with both home gardening and commercial farming expertise. She has been a Master Gardener for over 30 years, and has over 50 years of experience in commercial and home gardening. Leverette is also a former Clemson University Extension Agent and has been a member of The Spruce Gardening and Plant Care Review Board since 2021.

As an extension agent with Clemson University, Leverette played a key role in promoting the first Master Gardener programs offered in South Carolina in 1981. She also collaborated with horticulturists in the development of Riverbanks Botanical Garden, which opened in 1995.

Along with her brother, Leverette owns Marlowe Farms Apple Orchards, where she has gained extensive experience in growing vegetables, annuals, and perennials in both home and commercial settings.

Education and Expertise

Leverette holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Mars Hill University and a Master’s degree from the University of South Carolina. She received her Master Gardener training from Clemson University.

Leverette’s expertise encompasses a wide range of gardening topics, including:

Orchards
Perennials
Annuals
Vegetables
Commercial crops

The Spruce: A Trusted Resource for Home and Garden Enthusiasts

The Spruce, a Dotdash Meredith brand, is a leading home website that provides practical, real-life tips and inspiration to help people create their best homes. The Spruce reaches over 32 million people each month and is committed to providing trustworthy advice from certified experts for home and garden improvement.

Master Gardener Programs

Master Gardener programs are designed to train volunteers in the science and art of horticulture. Master Gardeners provide research-based information to the public on a wide range of gardening topics. Leverette has been involved in the development and promotion of Master Gardener programs throughout her career.

Riverbanks Botanical Garden

Riverbanks Botanical Garden is a 70-acre botanical garden located in Columbia, South Carolina. The garden features a variety of plant collections, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a children’s garden. Leverette played a key role in the development of the garden and continues to be involved in its educational programs.

Marlowe Farms Apple Orchards

Marlowe Farms Apple Orchards is a family-owned and operated apple orchard located in Columbia, South Carolina. The orchard grows a variety of apple varieties, as well as peaches, plums, and other fruits. Leverette and her brother have over 50 years of experience in commercial fruit production.

Conclusion

Mary Marlowe Leverette is a highly respected and experienced Master Gardener with a wealth of knowledge in both home and commercial gardening. Her expertise and dedication to horticulture have made her a valuable resource for gardeners of all levels.

Keira

Keira is a seasoned gardener with a rich background in education and a passion for transforming even the smallest, most challenging spaces into lush, productive gardens. With over two decades of experience in both teaching and gardening, she brings a unique blend of skills and insights to Life Science Art, where she shares her expertise through engaging and informative articles. Keira's journey into gardening began in her early years, inspired by her grandmother's ability to coax vibrant blooms and hearty vegetables from the rocky soil of their family farm. This early exposure to the wonders of gardening planted a seed of curiosity and love for plants that has only grown over the years. Before fully immersing herself in the world of gardening, Keira spent many years as a special education teacher. This role honed her patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills—qualities that have proven invaluable in her gardening endeavors. Her teaching experience also gave her a deep understanding of the diverse needs and capabilities of individuals, which she now applies to helping others learn to garden effectively, regardless of their starting point. Keira specializes in small-space gardening, low-income gardening, and cultivating plants in poor soil conditions. She understands that not everyone has access to vast, fertile lands or unlimited resources, and she is dedicated to making gardening accessible and rewarding for everyone. Living in urban areas or having limited outdoor space shouldn't be a barrier to enjoying the benefits of gardening. Keira has mastered the art of maximizing every inch of available space, whether it's a tiny balcony, a cramped backyard, or a window sill. Her innovative techniques and creative solutions help her readers grow a variety of plants in the most confined spaces. Keira is also a strong advocate for low-income gardening. She believes that everyone should have the opportunity to grow their own food and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening, regardless of their financial situation. Through her articles, she shares practical tips on budget-friendly gardening methods, repurposing household items, and making the most of available resources. Her advice empowers individuals and families to start and maintain gardens without breaking the bank. Not everyone is blessed with rich, loamy soil. Keira's expertise extends to growing plants in less-than-ideal soil conditions. She provides guidance on improving soil quality, selecting hardy plant varieties, and employing sustainable practices to ensure a bountiful harvest, even in challenging environments. Her hands-on experience and proven techniques help gardeners turn even the poorest soil into a thriving garden. Keira's contributions to Life Science Art are invaluable. Her articles cover a wide range of topics, from step-by-step guides on planting and maintaining specific types of gardens to tips on dealing with common gardening challenges. She also delves into the science behind plant growth, soil health, and sustainable gardening practices, making complex concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Beyond her technical expertise, Keira's writing is infused with warmth and encouragement. She understands that gardening is not just about growing plants; it's about fostering a connection with nature, finding peace and fulfillment, and building a community. Her personal anecdotes and down-to-earth advice resonate with readers, inspiring them to embark on their own gardening journeys with confidence and joy. Keira invites you to join her on Life Science Art, where she shares her wealth of knowledge and passion for gardening. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, her articles offer valuable insights, practical tips, and the inspiration you need to create your own green oasis. Discover the joys of gardening with Keira as your guide and unlock the potential of your outdoor space, no matter how small or challenging it may be.