The precursor of the Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center in Haywood County  was founded in 1913 by what is now the United Methodist Church and the Center maintains strong ties with the UMC.  Lake Junaluska is framed by lush mountains, trails, and carefully curated themed gardens, including an extensive rose garden,  which are meticulously maintained by Melissa Peterson-Tinsley and her team in the landscaping department.

Melissa has brought innovative techniques to the horticulture of the campus with an eye towards tending the gardens with more environmentally friendly green products and practices.  Hazardous pesticides are being replaced with organic alternatives, when possible and some products have been discarded, even when alternatives are a bit more labor intensive. Melissa will share her insights and experiences regarding the ongoing process of  ‘going green in a sacred space’.

Melissa  has been with Lake Junaluska Assembly since 2017 and has been the Landscape Manager since 2019.  She brings 20 years of horticultural experience to the table, as well as an Associates Degree in Horticulture from Haywood Community College.

The Garden Club of Weaverville is a co-ed, non-profit organization open to everyone. For more information on what we do, becoming a member or supporting the club visit our website.