The Ugly Gardener
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Welcome to my website!

    This is a multi-use website. I developed this site to serve as a place for the members of the various organizations I’m involved in to go to for information, as well as, provide information to the general public. Please use the links above to choose the area you want to visit, or visit each area to see what I am up to these days here in Lenox, Iowa!

    I’m not only known as The Ugly Gardener, I have several other prestigious (or not so prestigious titles). Sit a spell with me here and get to know me.

    I’m an Iowa State University Extension Service Master Gardener. Master Gardeners volunteer their knowledge to educate others on gardening. I’m also a USDA Earth Team volunteer and put my efforts towards promoting the national Backyard Conservation campaign. This campaign encourages everyone to do some of the same conservation practices farmers do only on a smaller scale in our backyards. My Backyard Conservation page gives you more information on how you can be Backyard Conservationist.

    I’m not only a Master Gardener, but also am known as Master O’Riley in my TaeKwonDo world. I’m a third degree black belt and run a school. My Lenox TaeKwonDo page has information on the school as well as nifty information on TaeKwonDo.

    I’m also an author. As The Ugly Gardener, I write stories for a local newspaper, a newsletter, and The Iowa Horticulturist. I call these stories Unique Garden Lessons for You by The Ugly Gardener. I’m looking to sell these humorous and educational stories. You can read samples on that page.

    I’ve given numerous presentations on how to build a no-till garden, many of these to children.  See the No-Till Gardening page for "recipes" to help you get your own no-till garden started - so simple children could do it. Children love the process and they learn about conservation along the way. Children can practically build this garden with little adult assistance.

A Bleeding Heart blooms in my no-till garden. Notice the chunks of wood, rock, and leaves in the garden. The bright blooms are juxtaposed against the natural, neutral background.

    One child told me I should write a book on no-till gardening for children, which I’ve done, and am in the process of looking for a publisher. Publishers, please look at the Children’s Book page.

    Another title is Queen Sheila, as I’m the leader of the Red Hat Society Chapter in Lenox, Iowa, known as The Bright Lighters of Lenox. Red Hatters can check out our activities and photos on this page.

    And, finally, I’m known as Mom and Honey (wife). Friends and family can catch up on the life of the O'Rileys on my family page.