See the work of the masters! On May 12, the Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County will present “Through the Garden Gate,” a garden tour exploring private gardens and projects of Master Gardeners, all within the confines of east and central Cobb County.

The tour takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine. Advance tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased at the Cobb County Extension Office at 678 South Cobb Drive, Suite 200 in Marietta. Payment can be made with cash or check.

Advance tickets may also be purchased through a downloadable ticket order form at www.cobbmastergardeners.org. All tickets include garden locations. Downloadable directions will be available on the website Tuesday.

“I think the tour attendees will enjoy the gardens whether they are active, experienced gardeners, first-time gardeners or garden appreciators,” said Debbie Abernathy, tour chair for 2012. Her co-chair is Suzanne Shinall of Smyrna.

Seven different gardens (five are private residences), each with its own set of challenges and triumphs, will be on tour. The tour is a unique opportunity to take in the breathtaking beauty, get inspiration and learn more about gardening.

Abernathy, who completed her course work and certification as a Master Gardener in 2010, said, “The (tour) will you show how to handle challenges in your landscape, garden in shaded and sloped areas, use native plants, encourage pollinators, incorporate perennials in your garden, provide areas for birds and other wildlife in your garden, include water features and comfortable outdoor living areas, and use raised beds for growing vegetables and much, much more.”

It takes about a year to obtain the status of Master Gardener. Gardeners must apply through the Cobb Extension, go through a selection process, complete classes and 50 hours volunteer service along with 25 hours of service answering gardening questions posed by citizens over the phone.

Also featured with this event is the Garden Party and Plant Sale at Chestnut Ridge Christian Church at 2663 Johnson Ferry Road in Marietta from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. No ticket is required for this event that includes local artisans and growers, children’s crafts, local organizations, and demonstrations. Master Gardeners will be on site at the gardens and the plant sale to answer any questions.

“There’s something for everyone,” Abernathy said. “(The tour) is a lot of beauty and education for 10 bucks.”

Tickets can be purchased for $15 on the day of the tour at any of the tour gardens or at the Plant Sale and Garden Party. · Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the project gardens supported by the Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County. Visit www.cobbmastergardeners.org or call (770) 528-4070 for more information.