Mother Nature has always been the reliable one in the relationship, steady seasons, predictable rhythms, and a quiet confidence in how things grow. But lately, Climate Change has become the partner who keeps changing plans, arriving late, leaving early, or forgetting the steps to the dance. And gardeners, whether we admit it or not, we have become the reluctant mediators in this family dispute. And if you’ve spent any time in your garden this summer, you’ve probably seen the tension between them.
I’m in King County, and we have what is called “mild marine weather.” In other words, in 2026, King County is expected to experience mild, wet winters, cool summers, and moderate precipitation year-round, with most extreme heat events being rare. This climate supports lush vegetation and outdoor activities in spring and fall, while winter is generally mild and snowy. What my “mild marine weather” doesn’t always support is bushels of corn, broccoli and one of my favorites … peppers! I must wait for Yakima’s shipment of Romas, Cherokee Purple, Brandywines, or Black Krims. I will say that my prize Peonies were stunning this year and I love them for the short time they’re here. However, it’s the organic produce that is my annual gardening challenge.
During a Plant Clinic, McLendon clients stop by with their questions that can range from what’s eating my Early Peas, to what is this black spot on my Rose leaf and how do I treat it, to why the crows are dive-bombing my lawn? No two days are the same, which I love. I love interacting with McLendon clients for a variety of reasons. You can’t be fooled by that sweet, innocent looking grandmother’s fast pace up to our table, I know I’m about to learn something about a neighborhood I haven’t visited before. Then there is the customer who is in a rush to check out and keep their day moving … that is, until they hear “Hello, do you have a plant question that we can help you with?” There is that usual pause, the pensive look on their face, then the replay … YES, I do.” Then after 9 questions and 20 minutes later, we get a very heartfelt “Thank You.”
As Master Gardeners, we provide weekly Ask A Master Gardener Plant Clinics throughout King County. It’s our opportunity to learn from our clients as well as give science-based answers to their questions. I’m in my 7th year as a WSU Extension Master Gardener, and I answer questions at the Renton McLendon Hardware Store, Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm, April through the end of September. As a Director for the Master Gardener Foundation of King County, I work within our community developing strong business relationships. The one community relationship that was handed to me on a silver platter is Renton McLendon Hardware.
As Master Gardeners, we go where our public wants us, and McLendon provides the public for us. Their stores give us access to gardeners, homeowners, families, and curious neighbors who might never find their way to an MG event otherwise. It’s one of the reasons our Plant Clinics thrive: the community comes to McLendon, and we meet them there.
McLendon Hardware is a community store that has served the Northwest for generations. Their staff knows their stuff. I’ve come in with little knowledge of how to repair an electrical cord that my sweet, innocent dog chewed in half and left with confidence and the right tool to repair my favorite lamp. As a Master Gardener, I’ve learned a lot watching McLendon employees take their time in responding to their customers and as a Master Gardener, I do my very best to do the same. McLendon Hardware remains strong within 7 locations and supports their area communities. We could not ask for a better partner!
Mark Your Calendar for September 19th After a summer of watching Mother Nature and cousin Climate Change negotiate their differences, there’s no better place to see resilience, adaptation, and garden creativity in action than our own Bellevue Demonstration Garden. It’s where the rhythms of the season, even the unpredictable ones, become teaching moments for all of us. Looking for even more garden inspiration?
Visit the Bellevue Demonstration Garden Harvest Festival on Saturday, September 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 15500 SE 16th Street, Bellevue. This free, family-friendly celebration features guided garden tours, a Master Gardener Plant Clinic, free educational classes, a plant sale, hands-on demonstrations, children’s activities, environmental education, floral bouquets, a garden flea market, and more. It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore the demonstration garden, meet Master Gardeners, and discover the many educational programs and volunteer opportunities available throughout King County.
Photo Credit: Leah Alden-Jaswal
Marie Kurka-Brown, Extension Master Gardener, Class 2020 & Foundation Director
