What is a Master Gardener?

People may wonder what it means to be a Master Gardener. Let me explain to you what a Master Gardner is and why becoming one is a worthwhile NewYear's endeavor.

What it means to be a Master Gardener varies from state to state, but generally it is the same thing. The program is part of a state's university extension program, an inexpensive resource I have always advised people to utilize when they have a tough question. People who enroll in the Master Gardener Program come from all walks of life. The mutual interest lies in a love for gardening whether it's lawns, trees, shrubs, vegetables, landscaping-whatever the passion, you're encouraged to enroll.

No Advanced Degree Necessary

This does not mean that you have a Masters degree in horticulture, as many people may think. In my state the only requisites are that a person has some experience in gardening and landscaping, be willing to learn and provide horticulture-based research to the public, and attend all training sessions and educational horticulture programs through their local university extension center.

Those selected to participate in the Master Gardener program attend 30 hours of classes led by other Master Gardeners and University Extension educators on topics ranging from plant growth, insect and disease control, vegetables, fruits, flowers, trees, shrubs, soil, and environmental issues. After that, a field internship is to be completed in any desired field from hydroponics to hybridizing irises. You can then call yourself a Master Gardener. From then on, all that's required is a volunteering of 20 hours a year, as well as enrollment in a few classes here and there to retain active Master Gardener status.

A Bigger Gardening Brain

Master Gardeners are privy to great opportunities to give talks to gardening clubs, community associations, and school classes; to work with clinics in the community and help residents with pest and disease problems; write articles in bulletins, newsletters, newspapers and other publications; to staff exhibits at state fairs and home and garden shows; organize community gardening projects, develop youth gardening programs, teach gardening classes, conduct home gardening research, and assist in senior gardening programs. The level of involvement is up to you, but the possibilities can be extremely rewarding for those who love time spent outside and have the time to indulge. Contact your local university extension for more information.

See you soon with more helpful gardening tips from GardenPower with Joe Sherinski and your Servicing STIHL dealer!

Ornamental Grasses
GardenPower Episode #99008

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