Kevin Starr
County Extension Director
N.C. Cooperative Extension Service

MASTER GARDNER PROGRAM


Are you interested in becoming a Master Gardener? If so, I want to invite you to attend an informational session at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 2. The meeting will be held in the Extension demonstration kitchen on the first floor of the James W. Warren Citizens Center in downtown Lincolnton.

What is the Master Gardener program? It begins with a course which covers the basics of plant science and soils and then touches on most areas of horticulture including how to care for lawns, flowers, trees, shrubs, fruits, and vegetables. Approximately forty hours of training are provided. In exchange for this training, prospective Master Gardeners agree to serve in various volunteer capacities for the Extension Service.

Volunteer service varies widely. Examples are helping at the Southern Spring Show, coordinating the Lincoln County Farmers Market locations, judging 4-H gardens, and more.

We’ve had all types of folks participate in the program ranging from experienced gardeners to those who know very little about growing plants. We have also had a number of individuals engaged in commercial horticulture including employees of garden centers and landscape firms. This makes for a good mix in the class and people are able to learn quite a bit from each other. But regardless of their motivation, class members are all tied together by a common desire to learn more about horticulture. In addition to any formal volunteer activities they might engage in, Master Gardeners are able to pass along solid gardening information as they interact with family and friends.

The cost of the training will be approximatley $70 which primarily covers the cost of the manual used in the course. The training will be held on Tuesday mornings from 9:00 a.m. until 12 noon beginning on October 28. It will continue through February with the exception of two weeks during the holiday season.

We will begin taking applications immediately after the informational session on September 2. The class tends to fill up fast so please make an effort to come on that day if at all possible. If you have questions, call Cooperative Extension at 704-736-8452.