Master Gardeners are expert volunteers who share a love of gardening, an enthusiasm for learning, and a commitment to helping others. Over 8,500 Iowans have completed the Master Gardener training, which is offered at many times and locations throughout the state each year. In Story County, the program is usually held in the fall.
Participants receive research-based information about lawn care, woody landscape plants, herbasceous ornamentals, insects, plant diseases, soils, plant nutrition, vegetables, fruits, houseplants, and home landscape design. Following the training sessions, graduates must complete 40 hours of community service as a "Master Gardener Intern" before becoming a Master Gardener.
Master Gardeners and Master Gardener Interns share their knowledge through a wide variety of service activities, such as hosting displays and answering questions at events such as farmers' markets or writing articles for local newspapers. Many also choose to join the Story County Master Gardeners Association (SCMGA), whose monthly meetings include guest speakers, garden tours, and project planning. SCMGA also sponsors mini-grants to fund educational garden projects for groups such as 4-H clubs. Read more about the SCMGA in their newsletters.
If you are interested in becoming a Master Gardener, contact the Story County Extension Office by e-mailing xstory@iastate.edu or calling (515) 382-6551.
Dave; Meridith
1/16/2008