High Country Garden Club was formed in 1996 in Payson, Arizona. A small group of seven local gardeners connected to affiliate with the Gardener’s Club of America, a national organization. After holding several organizational meetings in members’ homes, this dedicated and passionate group prepared a petition to affiliate with the Gardener’s Club of America and become a recognized chapter. The club was incorporated in 1997 with 17 charter members.

Our club has always been very active in Payson and Rim Country. From the beginning, we have partnered on or developed various community projects. One of the first activities was joining Payson’s Adopt a Street Beautification Program. An initiative we still support today. The club served local gardeners in Payson and the surrounding area in the spirit of community and connection. 

In November 2001, members voted to disaffiliate with the national organization and become an independent hometown garden club. This allowed us to retain more funding that was going to the national organization and use it more effectively right here in Rim Country. It also allowed for more ‘hands-on’ activities for members to participate in. Today, we are a strong and vibrant organization that continues to provide programs and events to benefit Rim Country Gardeners and our entire region.