Leonard J. Buck Garden Seeking Volunteers

Somerset County Park Commission Leonard J. Buck Garden, located at 11 Layton Road in Far Hills, is looking for energetic volunteers to assist in general garden maintenance, act as docents, and lead tours throughout the nationally recognized rock garden.

Individuals who enjoy people and love gardening will have the opportuniuty to come share their passion and plant knowledge with fellow gardeners as a Garden Guide or Horticultural Assistant.

Tasks for trained Garden Guides include giving guided tours, greeting visitors, and answering questions. Tours are scheduled during the week and on Sunday afternoons in spring, early summer, and occasionally into autumn. Garden Guide training focuses on the many distinctive plants growing at Buck Garden plus the garden’s rich history. Training consists of five orientation sessions on alternate Thursdays from 9:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. The first session this year is scheduled for April 2, 2020. This training is free, however pre-registration is required.

Also needed are Horticultural Assistants who help maintain various garden duties in the garden.  Working with the horticultural staff, volunteers will help with all of the tasks required to keep the garden in excellent condition. Planting, watering, weeding, mulching, pruning, and deadheading flowers are some of the gardening tasks. Gardening knowledge and experience is very much appreciated.

People 18 years of age and older who enjoy everything gardening, working outdoors, meeting new people with similar interests, and want to become part of our team should call call 908-722-1200 Ext. 5621.

Leonard J. Buck Garden is one of the premier rock gardens in the eastern United States consisting of a series of alpine and woodland garden areas situated in a 29-acre wooded stream valley.

Tucked among the rocks are rare and exotic rock garden plants. The wooded trails connecting the outcroppings are lined with beautiful wild flowers that have flourished and multiplied through the years. Throughout the garden grow various trees, shrubs, and perennials.

Information on Somerset County Park Commission programs and activities may be found on the Internet at www.somersetcountyparks.org.