Frequently Asked Questions about the Master Gardener Program

1. How can I qualify to become a Master Gardener?

2. What will I learn in class?

3. What can I do once I'm a certified Master Gardener?

4. What is the application process? 

1. How can I qualify to become a Master Gardener?

 

• Anyone with a strong interest in horticulture and home gardening, and a desire to share that with others can qualify to become a Master Gardener.
• You will need the time and dedication to participate in 40 hours of classroom instruction.
• You will also be required to provide an additional 40 hours of volunteer time for community or MSU Extension projects.
• For a detailed explanation of the certification process, be sure to read the Master Gardener Program Policy Statement

Master Gardeners are a unique group of volunteers trained by
Michigan State University Extension to provide an effective network of gardening programs and activities to enhance their communities.
Each county Master Gardener program is designed to meet the needs of the local community.

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2. What will I learn in class?

 

Classroom instruction is a formal training program designed to prepare Master Gardeners for their volunteer role in the community.   Staff from MSU Extension, MSU Faculty, and local horticulturists serve as the training team for the program.

 
The following core topics are covered in the training program:

• Plant Science - What are gymnosperms? Define xylem and phloem. Identify the parts of a flower.
• Soils for Plant Growth - Are sand particles larger or smaller than particles of clay?
• Flower Gardening - Deadheading does not mean listening to the Grateful Dead.
• Household Insect Pests - Learn to identify home-invading pests, insects that damage wood, common vertebrate pests and more.
• Indoor Plants - Soil mixes, repotting, watering, environmental needs of indoor plants, propagation, poisonous plants.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM) - Definition and application of IPM
• Lawn Care - Grass plant characteristics, types of grasses, grasses for specific needs, lawn management
• Small Fruit Culture - Learn which small fruits do well in Michigan and why. . .
• Tree Fruit Culture - Planning a productive home orchard.
• Vegetable Culture - Planning, planting, record keeping, garden maintenance, families and groups of vegetables
• Woody Ornamentals - Site considerations, plant types, planting, post-planting, pruning, weed and pest management, and more.

Other Supplemental instruction includes:

 

Composting, Water Quality, Wildlife Management, Volunteerism, Helpline training, Non-Native Invasive and more.

 

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What can I do once I'm a certified Master Gardener?

 

MASTER GARDENERS...

• Answer gardening questions at county fairs, garden centers, flower shows, libraries, shopping centers, and in the Extension office.
• Design and install community landscape and beautification projects.
• Establish and manage farmers' markets.
• Create and participate in gardening related programs for the handicapped, senior citizens, and non-English speaking communities.
• Test and evaluate new varieties of vegetables, roses, flowers, turf, shrubs, and trees.
• Increase food production through development of community gardens.
• Research and write newspaper articles, information sheets, fliers, and brochures.
• Plan, develop, and deliver training for garden center employees, grounds managers, nursery personnel, community groups, and volunteers.
• Assist with the development of computer generated gardening programs.
• Provide training for 4-H and youth.
• . . . and so much more!

Master Gardeners are a cross section of the American people with something in common--
a desire to share their knowledge and skills with their communities free of charge.
Master Gardeners promote, inform, and work with communities, political leaders, and commercial firms to present programs in all aspects of gardening: turf, landscape, vegetables, grounds management, flowers, urban forestry, house plants, insects, disease fruit crops, and herbs.
Master Gardeners believe that by working together they can make the world a better place to live.

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For more information regarding the Master Gardener Training Program in Van Buren County, please call or e-mail Beth Clawson at the MSU Extension Office, (269) 657-8213.

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Last modified: November, 2007