Master Gardener training program begins July 8

The University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service is conducting the Master Gardener training program every Saturday starting July 8 and ending Aug. 5, Miller County Extension Agent Jennifer Caraway said.

“Applications are now being accepted for individuals who want to sharpen their horticultural skills and then share their knowledge with others. The Master Gardener program is a volunteer training program in horticulture,” Caraway said.

“If selected, the volunteer is given 40 hours of horticulture instruction and a notebook. In return, the person volunteers 40 hours in their local county program in the course of one year. This training is for those who wish to take the classes on Saturday. The program is offered in Hempstead County this year, but once you have been selected and have completed the 40 hour training, you will be a member of your local county program and must comply with county guidelines,” Caraway said.

The first class will be in the Southwest Research & Extension Center, 262 Highway 174, Hope, Ark., from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.. All other classes will be in Hempstead Hall at the University of Arkansas Community College at Hope, 2500 S. Main St.. An additional orientation session may be required by the local county program.

“Enrollment is limited. If selected, following training and receipt of the certification, volunteers are committed to donating 40 working hours and pursuing 20 additional learning hours in their county Master Gardener program,” Caraway said.

Training will cover basic botany, principles of horticulture, soils and fertilizers, vegetables, home fruit production, ornamental plants, lawns, pest control and pesticide use, she said.

“Cooperative Extension Service professionals, horticulture professionals and other specialists in their field will conduct all training classes. A fee of $75 covers books, training fees, name badges and snacks. Additional county fees may apply for dues based on local county requirements,” Caraway said.

Final selection of participants will be made at the local county level based on the applications, interviews and commitment to volunteer requirement. Deadline for applying is June 1.

For a copy of the application or for more information, call 870-779-3609 or visit https://uaex.edu/counties/miller/programs/aspx.