Ever want to be known as a master gardener? Applications for the 2015 Master Gardner training are currently being accepted.
Classes will be taught by OSU Extension agents, specialists and local garden and landscaping experts. The program offers a basic, practical course in plant science and includes topics such as plant disease identification and treatment, weed control, insect identification with integrated pest management control, understanding soil types and fertility needed for specific plant species, growing healthy vegetables, lawn maintenance, home orchard care and general organic garden techniques, and more.
For an application packet and additional information, contact OSU Umatilla County Extension Service at 541-278-5403. Application materials also are available online at the Extension’s website.
The Master Gardening 2015 classes take place from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a half-hour lunch break Thursdays, Feb. 5 through March 26, 2015, in the conference room at the Hermiston Agriculture Research and Extension Center, 2121 S. First St, Hermiston.
The class fee is $115, which includes the course textbook, “Sustainable Gardening: The Oregon-Washington Gardener Handbook” (a $30 value). A refund of $50 of the class fee can be earned upon completion of 30 hours of volunteer service through activities such as helping in demonstration gardens that deliver produce to organizations that feed the hungry, participating in plant clinic events (e.g. Farmer’s Market education outreach) and several other community outreach venues, and answering on-call questions from the extension office.
Gardeners at any level looking to learn more and share this common labor of love with others should submit their applications by Jan. 10 to reserve a seat.
