Hot Springs Parks & Trails Greenhouse Coordinator Daryl Edwards was named 2016 Friend of the Year by the Garland County Master Gardeners of the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.
The annual award is given to an individual who instructs and provides learning opportunities for Master Gardener volunteers each year. Edwards coordinates the monthly Master Gardener work days at the city’s greenhouse; teaches them how to build, fertilize and maintain the many downtown hanging baskets, a labor-intensive task that is annually accomplished by the volunteers; and instructs them regarding tree pruning and growing plants of all kinds. He also works with the Master Gardeners to enhance public green spaces such as those at the Farmers Market, the intersection of Malvern and Grand avenues, and Entergy Park.
Edwards holds an associate degree in art and a Bachelor of Science degree in art and botany. He is a member of the local Bonsai Club. He often advises residents about trees, flowers, shrubs, landscaping and pruning. Edwards has served as a Parks & Trails employee for 26 years.