Meet Julia Broughton

She moved to Norfolk to complete her Master’s degree at Old Dominion University (ODU). She studied Applied Linguistics and became an English Language Acquisition teacher for the Virginia Beach Adult Learning Center. Julia and her husband left the area briefly to work for a year and a half in the Philippines, after which they returned to Norfolk.

Julia left teaching to allow more flexibility while raising her children and keeping up with their schedules. Instead of teaching in a school, she organizes and teaches English classes for Global Student Friendship, a non-profit organization that helps international students at ODU.

Gardening and horticulture have always been interests for Julia. Becoming a Master Gardener was a chance to increase her knowledge of gardening, and to find more ways to get involved in the community.

Julia was impressed with the quality of the class presentations and the knowledge of the instructors as well as their enthusiasm for their fields of interest. She believes the classes gave her a comprehensive overview of topics.

To attain her required fifty hours, Julia worked at the Potager Garden, East Ocean View Children’s Garden, Fred Heutte Square Foot Garden, Weyanoke Bird and Wildflower Sanctuary, Significant Tree Project, Elizabeth River Trail Beautification, Butterfly House at Norfolk Botanical Garden, Fall Plant Sale, Zoo Garden and Zoo Cart.

Going forward, Julia plans to regularly continue at the Potager Garden, and she is hopng to add more days at the Fred Heutte Square Foot Garden. She is also interested in spending more time at Weyanoke.

When Julia isn’t participating in Master Gardener projects, she enjoys playing the piano, visiting museums, visiting friends, and finding new coffee shops.



Julia is married and has three daughters who are in elementary and middle school. Their little white terrier, Watson, completes the family unit.

When you see Julia, be sure to introduce yourself and welcome her to the Norfolk Extension Master Gardeners.