The Arizona Herb Association

Our members participate in planting, growing and maintaining a public Demonstration Garden at the Maricopa County Extension Office. There is at least one "Weed & Feed" scheduled every month (usually the first Saturday morning of the month) at which members tend to the Demonstration Garden, planting new herbs, pruning old ones, weeding out unwanted plants, etc. Members often bring snacks to share during a mid-morning break (thats the "feed" part).

The "Weed and Feed" is a wonderful opportunity for members to learn more about herbs with hands-on experience. This activity is also extremely important to the Association, as the Demonstration Garden is our primary public display and showcase for herb growing in Arizona. All members are expected to help keep the Demonstration Garden in top condition.

All members in good standing receive a member newsletter. Other herb-related publications which have been developed by AHA members are also available at a special member rate. Fund-raising events are held throughout the year and members deliver numerous educational talks to gardening groups and he general public on the many aspects of herbs in Arizona. The AHA often sets up its boot at home improvement and garden shows and is a regular participant in the Desert Botanical Garden Spring and Fall Plant Sales. The Arizona Herb Association also schedules field trips and other special workshops throughout the year based on member interest.

The Mini-Group Educational Sessions are designed to allow members to spend extra time with other AHA members interested in a more in-depth study of a particular aspect of herbs. Specialty Mini-Groups have been organized ion the past for the following topics:

• Cosmetics
• Crafting
• Culinary
• Horticulture
• Medicinal

Our highlight event is the December Cook-Off - an herbal potluck dinner. Entries are judged and prizes are awarded for the best dishes and the best use of herbs.