Qualifications

    The Master Gardener program is designed to educate further those already knowledgeable about gardening. Participants must be willing to learn and to communicate their knowledge to others. Educating the public is the primary job of a Master Gardener. You must be able to provide your own transportation to classes and other activities. You must be willing to complete 50 hours of volunteer service.

Training

     You must complete an intensive 50 hour program designed to provide a basic background in all areas of horticulture. Topics include basic botany, soils and fertilizers, insects, diseases, plant propagation, trees and shrubs, pruning, lawns, vegetables, fruits, perennials and annuals, landscape management and water quality. Instruction will also be given on volunteering. Classes meet twice a week for approximately 10 weeks beginning in the fall.

Cost

     You are expected to return a minimum of 50 hours of service (equal to the number of hours of training) to the community through the Cooperative Extension Office as payment for the instruction. This internship must be completed within one year of the end of classroom work. A fee (currently $125) is also charged to cover the costs of books and other educational materials.
 

Timing

    The master gardener training course is offered biannually.  The next class will be held in the fall of 2008.   If you would like to get on the waiting list for the 2008 class, contact the Northumberland County Extension Office at 804-580-5694.