10/03/2026
In 2001 I was a new grower, just a few years in, and the Association of specialty cut Flower conference was in San Diego. We got a wild hare one evening & hopped a train to have dinner in Tijuana! It was just a couple of us including my mom. This guy, the famous garden guru Dr. Allen Armitage and the executive director Judy (Both founders of the Association) where sitting directly in front of my mom. I prayed that she didn’t embarrass me. My prayer went unanswered! Mom wasted no time, She started in saying, “Farming is so hard!” “What if she hurts herself?” “Can she even earn a living?” I wanted to climb under the table and disappear! He looked at my mom dead in her eyes & said “Don’t worry! Your daughter has everything it takes to do well. She is going to take this far!” I didn’t see Allen much after that until this week, exactly one year since my mom’s death.
He calmed her that night and not only did she accept my career choice, she was extremely proud that I had found my passion. I will never forget how this larger-than-life garden guru would even take the time to hang out with me — a total beginner — and that he not only advocated for my dream but started my mom on her path of acceptance, joy, and pride. This is the stuff that makes this association great! Meeting each other exactly where we are, and always willing to give a helping hand, no matter what that may be. it really was a full circle moment after all these years I’m forever grateful!! Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers ❤️
