A 10-week training program for prospective Master Gardeners will begin Feb. 15, with enrollment limited to 15 participants.
The Master Gardener program, which began in Mississippi in 1991, is designed to enhance public education in consumer horticulture and provide educational assistance to all citizens concerning all areas of horticulture through the use of trained volunteers.
“If you are looking to get involved and volunteer in the community, the Master Gardener Program may be right for you,” said Lowndes County Extension Director Jeff Wilson.
Under the guidance and support of Extension agents, selected residents enter a specially designed training program and then fulfill a commitment of 40 volunteer service hours through a wide variety of directed projects. There are plant clinics, horticulture hotlines, environmental planting projects, demonstration gardens, research and numerous other opportunities to serve.
Training will continue until March 24, with classes offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-5:00 p.m. at the Extension office in Columbus. Classes will include basic botany, soils, diseases, weed control, vegetable production, fruit and nut production and lawn care. A one-time fee of $85 covers materials, refreshments and a one-year membership in the Mississippi Master Gardeners Association.
The deadline for applying is Feb. 1. For details, contact the Lowndes County Extension office at 662-328-2111.
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