MASTER GARDENER PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Prior gardening experience is not required to enroll in the Master Gardener training program. If your interests mirror those listed below, come join us. You will be amazed by the knowledge you gain. And, as an added bonus, you will enjoy the friendship and camaraderie of our members.
A Master Gardener Volunteer:
· has an interest in any type of gardening, such as vegetable or ornamental;
· wants to teach others to garden; and
· is trained by Cooperative Extension Service personnel.
What does a Master Gardener Do?
Master Gardeners are volunteers that help University of Kentucky’s Cooperative Extension Agents reach more residents with gardening questions or problems. Some typical activities include:
· working information booths at community events;
· maintaining demonstration gardens;
· teaching horticulture to beginning gardeners through educational programs and activities;
· using special talents (such as writing, photography, etc.) to benefit others;
· exploring environmental options; and/or
· visiting garden sites.
How do I become a Master Gardener?
1.
A certified Master Gardener is any graduate of the Master Gardener
program who
has completed the course work and
initial service hours.
2. An active certified Master Gardener
is a Master Gardener who fulfills all of the following
requirements:
a. Pays annual dues
b.
Volunteers a minimum of 20 hours in approved
HCMGA activities, and 10 hours of
continuing education each calendar year
How are Master Gardeners trained?
Master Gardener training programs are conducted through the County Extension Service offices annually or bi-annually, and are taught by Cooperative Extension service specialists, agents, and other horticulture professionals. The program is a comprehensive course of study that includes the following subjects:
· Botany
· Entomology
· Plant pathology
· Soils and fertilizers
· Pesticide use and safety
· Fruit and vegetable gardening
· Tree and shrub care
· Lawn care
· Flower gardening
· Organic gardening
· Volunteerism
How much time is involved in Master Gardener training?
The Master Gardener program is approximately 40 hours of intensive training. Participants are expected to attend sessions and finish all of the homework. Sessions are held once each week for fourteen weeks, and each session is approximately three hours in length. Sessions may be held in the evening or daytime, at the discretion of the Extension Agent.
What does the training cost?
The fee for attending the Master Gardener training program is approximately $90-$110. A fee is charged to recover the cost of the supplies and literature used in the training. Program participants keep these materials for future reference. Payment is due at the beginning of the training.
How much volunteer time is required?
After successfully completing the training program, you need to contribute an initial amount of volunteer time to officially become a Master Gardener. To maintain Master Gardener status, you need to contribute 20 hours of volunteer time and attend 10 hours of continuing education annually.
Although volunteer requirements may seem daunting at first glance, many enjoyable activities are planned throughout the year and the volunteer hours add up quickly. We can’t stress enough the wonderful camaraderie experienced by our Association members. Obtaining volunteer hours is not a chore when you are spending time with your friends!
How do I enroll?
Application forms are available from the Lyon County Extension Office at 231 Main Street in Eddyville, KY or by calling (270) 388-2341.
If you are undecided about whether or not the Master Gardener Program is for you, please join us at one of our monthly meetings. This will give you an opportunity to meet us and to learn more about our activities. The ‘Meetings & Officers’ tab lists our meeting dates, times, and location.
If time constraints do not allow you to participate at this time, you may wish to sign up to receive the Lyon County Extension Horticulture Newsletter and information regarding our upcoming programs and events. Click on the ‘Sign-up’ tab and complete the ‘We provide gardening information’ form.
Other questions?
Please contact:
Susan Fox
County Extension Agent for Agriculture & Natural Resources
231 Main Street
Eddyville, KY 42038
Phone: (270) 388-2341
Fax: (270) 388-4627
Email: susan.fox@uky.edu
The
University of Kentucky is committed to a policy of providing opportunities to
people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the
basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion,
political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression,
pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or
physical or mental disability.
