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.