Master gardener training to begin next month in Jasper County

(From University of Missouri Extension)

University of Missouri Extension in Jasper County is sponsoring a Missouri Master Gardener training program starting in February.

According to Robert Balek, horticulture specialist with University of Missouri Extension, the Master Gardener program is designed to train volunteers in various aspects of horticulture.

"Master Gardeners participate in a wide variety of community service projects and assist MU Extension in providing unbiased educational information to the public," said Balek.

ENROLLMENT

To apply for the Master Gardener program in Jasper County, or to obtain more information, contact Robert Balek at the Jasper County Extension Center by telephone 417-358-2158 or e-mail jasperco@missouri.edu.

"Any individual wanting to become a Master Gardener is required to attend 30 hours of training, and agree to return 30 hours of volunteer service during the following year," said Balek.

The class fee in Jasper County is $150 but, thanks to the support of the Ozark Gateway Master Gardener organization, scholarships are available for those participating in the training.

Training topics covered include: orientation to the Master Gardener program, plants and their environment, home fruit production, woody ornamentals - establishment and care, home lawn and turf, soils and plant nutrition, plant diseases, insects, vegetables, plant propagation, pest management, vegetables, pruning and herbaceous perennial flowers.

BACKGROUND

The Master Gardener Program is a popular and successful statewide volunteer community-service organization administered through University of Missouri Extension. The organization's goal is to train gardeners who are willing to share their knowledge with others.

Master Gardeners become volunteers of University of Missouri Extension and donate hours for community educational projects in horticulture. Volunteer activities include working with non-profit organizations, maintaining community gardens, conducting workshops, participating in a Master Gardener speakers' bureau and staffing the Master Gardener "Hotline."

For more information, contact the nearest county extension office or go online tohttp://extension.missouri.edu