Master Gardener class begins next week

Did you make a new year’s resolution to take better care of your lawn this year or cut grocery bills by planting a garden to grow your own vegetables?

If so, the first step to keeping that goal might be to enroll in the 2018 University of Tenness e e - Maste r Gard e n - er training course that begins next week at the UT Extension off i ce, 6183 Adamson Circle off Bonny Oaks Drive.

There are two time options to fit work schedules: Monday evenings beginning Jan. 8 f rom 6 to 9 p. m. or Tuesday mornings beginning Jan. 9 from 9 a. m. to noon. Classes will meet for 15 consecutive weeks, ending with a graduation ceremony in April.

Master Gardener training course is open to expe- rienced and beginning gardeners. It offers the most current, research- based information available on topics related to home gardening and landscaping. Subjects to be covered will include soil and water management, mulch and fertilizers, controlling pests, plant diseases, basic landscaping, vegetable, flower and herb gardening, understanding native plants, attracting wildlife and beekeeping.

“Participants learn the latest gardening practices from a range of experts,” says Master Gardener Suzanne Ford. “Master Gardeners serve as mentors, explaining the many volunteer opportunities. In addition to completing the training course, participants also fulfill required hours of volunteer service.”

“Becoming a Master Gardener is a great way to meet people who have the same interest and passion as you.”

The cost is $ 170 per person, which includes a comprehensive handbook, n u mero u s handouts and more. Couples taking the class and sh a r in g mater ia ls may enroll for $ 270. A limited number of scholarships are available.

Applications can be obtained at t he Master Gardeners of Hamilton County website: www. mghc.org or by phone: 423- 8556113. For quest i ons, contact Tom Stebbins, extension agent, at tstebbins@utk.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO John Nessle leads a class on pruning.