“I chose long ago to get good at one thing … and I like to eat.”

Gloucester Master Gardener Bob Beyea of Adner grew up on a farm in upstate New York and has continued his passion for growing vegetables throughout his life.

Even when he served in the Navy, he always found a way to grow his plants. “I was growing something one way or another,” said Beyea.

He was able to have a large garden in Virginia Beach when he was stationed there for seven years. Now, he has a 14,000-square-foot garden at his Adner home.

“I try growing just about everything,” said Beyea.

Twelve years ago Beyea joined the Gloucester Master Gardeners and has served two terms as president. He also manages the garden group’s helpline and gives one lecture every month at Brent and Becky’s Bulbs.

“It keeps me busy,” he said.

He also helps plan for the organization’s annual plant extravaganza at the Gloucester Moose Lodge.

“I’ve already got plants started for it,” he said.

At his home, Beyea pla...