The Springs at Sterling on the Lake is Now Home to a Master Gardener

Georgia red clay is abundant throughout the state. As spring planting begins, it will become a nemesis to even expert gardeners. For those living in Stonecrest Homes’ sought after community, The Springs at Sterling on the Lake in Flowery Branch, red clay will not be a deterrent any longer. The home builder announces that one of its community’s very own residents, Liz Dietz, has recently been certified as a Master Gardener.

“I was very excited to hear that Liz was attending classes to become a Master Gardener,” said Suzanne Spivey, on-site agent at The Springs at Sterling on the Lake. “It sounds very interesting, and the residents and I are very excited to see her hard work in action this spring.”

As a biologist in the field of medical diagnostics, Dietz had always enjoyed dabbling in the yard. After retiring, she wanted to keep her mind active and to learn new things. As a fairly recent newcomer to Georgia, Dietz especially wanted to learn how to landscape while dealing with the red clay.   

After taking classes in Gainesville at the extension office of the University of North Georgia, going on educational field trips, completing 50 hours of service and passing a certification test, Dietz has learned more than just how to handle the red clay. She also was taught about insects, how to take soil samples, what to plant to detract deer, not to mulch too heavily around trees and much more.

“I had high quality courses that I would recommend to anyone interested in gardening,” explained Dietz. “Many of my courses were taught by Master Gardeners and PhDs from the University of Georgia. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience.” 

As a Master Gardener, Dietz will have to maintain her accreditation by completing 25 hours of service each year. She can do so by helping out at agricultural centers, such as Chicopee Woods in Hall County, and guest lecturing at nearby libraries.

At The Springs at Sterling on the Lake, Dietz will be the go-to for any landscaping or gardening problems. She plans to compile reference material for her neighbors so that they too can improve upon their skills.

“One reason we choose to buy at The Springs at Sterling on the Lake is because it had no restrictions,” said Dietz. “Though lawn maintenance is included, I can add additional trees, shrubs and flowers with the approval of the Design Review Board. We liked having freedom and choices as compared to the age restricted communities we had looked at. Most of our neighbors are in the same age group, but there are other families in the [master planned] community as well. It’s a nice setting.”

In addition to having a Master Gardener on hand, residents at The Springs at Sterling on the Lake also have access to Sterling on the Lake’s resort style amenities. These include a 45-acre lake, miles of walking trails around the lake, an award-winning clubhouse, two pools, a lighted tennis center, four-and-a-half acre village center park, village green and $6 million Hall County Library with café.

Convenient to I-985, The Springs at Sterling on the Lake is also minutes to area attractions such as Lake Lanier, Mall of Georgia, Chateau Èlan, multiple golf courses and many shopping and dining options.

For more information on The Springs at Sterling on the Lake’s lifestyle, contact Suzanne Spivey at 404-310-4038. Also, visit www.stonecresthomesga.com.