Sandra Gerdes Title: Test Garden Manager Education: Iowa State University Location: Des Moines, Iowa Expertise: Gardening, Landscape Management Sandra Gerdes has been the manager of the Better Homes & Gardens Test Garden® since it was founded in 1998. She grows and evaluates hundreds of plants for their performance in a home garden setting. The results of her efforts help inform content for the print magazine and digital media. Experience Gerdes has been gardening since her childhood, growing up on a farm in Iowa with vegetable and flower gardens. After graduating from Iowa State University, she moved to Florida to work at Walt Disney World, where she grew a variety of crops hydroponically.Several years later, Gerdes returned to Iowa to help establish the BHG Test Garden. In this role, she oversees all garden spaces, budget, seasonal workers, and interns. She also cultivates professional relationships within the green industry, to continually assess new plants, design ideas, and garden trends. During the warmer months, she enjoys giving tours and interacting with the public who visit the garden. Professional MembershipsPerennial Plant AssociationAmerican Horticultural Society Education Gerdes holds a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture from Iowa State University. About Better Homes & Gardens Better Homes & Gardens, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, is the only iconic home brand with a 100+ year history of providing trustworthy and achievable ideas for all doers and home-enthusiasts. We are the go-to resource for fresh takes on home, food, and gardening—inspiring people to bring their dreams to life at home on special occasions and every day. BHG reaches 45 million readers each month. Learn more about us and our editorial process.