Extension Master Gardener Training Offered This Fall
Area plant lovers have an excellent opportunity this fall to participate in an outstanding horticulture program. Extension Master Gardener training will be held September 3 through December 3 using a hybrid format that combines in-person classes with Zoom instruction.
The Extension Master Gardener program is a volunteer program in which K-State Extension “trades” classroom training for volunteer service. Participants receive 40 to 50 hours of instruction in all aspects of horticulture and, upon completion of the training, donate an equivalent number of volunteer service hours to Extension horticulture programs.
Training is taught by Kansas State University specialists, local Extension agents, and area horticulture experts. Topics include:
- Plant Growth and Development
- Soils, Water, and Fertilizer
- Vegetable Gardening
- Insect Diagnosis and Management
- Growing Fruit
- Annuals and Perennials
- Woody Ornamentals
- Turfgrass
- Landscape Maintenance
- Plant Disease Diagnosis and Management
- Pesticide Use and Safety
- Wildlife Management
Although the Master Gardener program is volunteer-based, applicants must meet the following requirements before being accepted into the program:
- Be available to complete approximately 40 hours of community horticulture volunteer service during the first year. Volunteer hours are equal to the number of training hours received.
- Have access to the internet, a computer or other device with a microphone and camera, an actively monitored email account, and reliable transportation to the in-person training location in Iola.
- Enjoy sharing a love of gardening with others through a variety of Extension Master Gardener projects.
The Southwind Extension District has an active Master Gardener program whose volunteers have completed projects including demonstration flower beds, vegetable research trials, educational programs, and many other community horticulture initiatives.
Applications are now available and must be submitted to the Southwind Extension District by August 15. The registration fee is $95.
Applications are available on the Southwind Extension District website: www.southwind.k-state.edu or can be mailed upon request. For more information about the Master Gardener training program, please contact the Extension office.
Krista Harding is the K-State Research and Extension horticulture agent serving the Southwind Extension District. She can be reached at [email protected] or 620-244-3826.
K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.