Jane Powell is “Gardening in Pearls” combining her love of gardens, fashion and design. By day Jane is the Communications Director for a community foundation, but out of the office you can find her playing in the garden.  With a history in retail and an eye for display and color, plus being a long-time West Virginia Extension Service Master Gardener (Kanawha County chapter) she brings a unique perspective to the garden.

Jane is active in the community and volunteers with several non-profits as well as Kanawha County Master Gardeners. She lives in a little house on a big hill in Charleston, WV.  Her garden has sunny spots and shady beds, where she grows perennials, vegetables and herbs. All of this in the midst of dogs, deer and other creatures of the woods. Jane can be reached at janeellenpowell@aol.com.

"Your column in the Herald-Dispatch (also in the Charleston Gazette to which we also used to subscribe) is one of the highlights of the weekend newspaper. I turn to it eagerly and always find it to be informative and learned, as well as practical and personal. Previously, the gardening column, done by another person, included advice on using a rototiller and other heavy agricultural tasks. Never did the column pertain to anything I could do, or even wish to do. Your column is approachable and offers practical information and advice. Your expertise is obvious, your sense of humility and humor are delightful. I could only wish for your column to appear every week (although you might not wish the same). Please keep doing what you are doing. I am certainly a devoted fan, and I heartedly believe you have many others."

"What a sweet encouraging piece! You didn't guilt us into biting off big projects, just a few encouraging tips to get things in order! Thanks so much. I'll go toss a pair of dirty gloves, and remember your gentle words to start anew! Wishing you a year of easy gardening, good friends and more inspiration for good advice!"

“I’ve been reading your Sunday Gazette article. It’s becoming as fun as receiving the annual Burpee, etc. seed catalogues in my younger days. Your garden sounds like the one I wish were mine!”