Name? Alan Gorkin
Age? 52
Occupation?
I have been a horticulturist since graduating from college at Michigan State with a horticultural degree in '81- so almost 30 years. I was interested in plants in high school when doing landscaping and mowing, but mostly being friends with my elderly neighbor woman who was an avid gardener of fruits and vegetables.
I have a large garden, 1/4 acre, at home where I grow vegetables and flowers, raise chickens and ducks and sell to some people who prepay and at a small stand. During the day, I am a gardener on a 12 acre private estate, where I grow vegetables for sale to farmers markets and restaurants. I also oversee the maintenance of the property which has woodland, oriental, formal and sculpture gardens.
My career has been mostly as a horticulturist in public gardens. Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, Old Westbury Gardens and Wave Hill, all in NY. I had a stint as owner of my own nursery and greenhouse in New Canaan, CT for 15 years.
How long have you lived in Wilton?
I've lived here for nine years. I'm originally from Long Island, a town called Bethpage, NY. I hope to someday move to a more rural place and grow my own food; enough to live on and be self sufficient- maybe Massachussetts, Maine or Upstate NY.
Where is your favorite hangout or place to chill in Wilton?
My yard.
Why Wilton?
It's a nice town with a rural feel, and it's not too large
