Master Gardener Training to begin in September
Become an Iowa Master Gardener by completing the core training course this fall through the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Allamakee County office. Gardeners will learn best practices for choosing plants, designing gardens and managing pests. Classes in Allamakee start September 27, but pre-registration is required by September 1.
Classes will be held Tuesday evenings from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and will be held at Allamakee County Extension in Waukon, located at 218 Seventh Avenue SE, Suite #102. There will also be a class held October 8 or 22 in Ames on the campus of Iowa State University. Three face-to-face lectures to cover vegetables, herbs, plant propagation, houseplants and herbaceous ornamentals will also be part of the training.
Those interested in the course can apply through the Master Gardener website at https://mastergardenerhours.hort.iastate.edu/application-form.php. Apply by September 1 to participate in 40 hours of Master Gardener Training. There is a fee for this course and no previous gardening experience is required.
“Starting this fall, people can begin their journey to become a master gardener volunteer,” said Susan DeBlieck, program assistant in the Master Gardener program with ISU Extension and Outreach. “The training course includes lectures on gardening subjects, from growing vegetables and fruits to designing gardens with native plants.”
After completing the course master gardener trainees start their work as volunteers within the community, volunteering 20 hours a year while building their gardening know-how by participating in 10 hours of continuing education.
“Master gardeners provide information and education to Iowans,” said DeBlieck. “They are a community resource establishing community gardens, helping people identify plant diseases and growing nectar plants for pollinators.” In 2015, over 120,000 volunteer hours in Iowa were logged by Iowa Master Gardeners.
DeBlieck notes a second enrollment option for those not interested in volunteering. Registering as a professional horticulture trainee at a greater fee offers the same educational course and materials, but participants earn a certificate upon completion without having to provide the 40 hours of community service.
Contact Allamakee County Extension at 563-568-6345 or by e-mail at dahlstro@iastate.edu with any questions regarding the Master Gardener training program.
