The following Agriculture & Natural Resources article originally printed in the 2018 Summer edition of the Oldham County Extension Newsletter.

Master Gardener Classes

We are gauging interest for the next Master Gardener volunteer program, anticipated to begin in September. The program includes 12 classes that meet weekly, covering botany, soils, entomology, plant pathology, and other foundation topics. The cost for the program is $100, and partial scholarships to cover this fee are available. If you are interested, please call our office or send an email to lauren.state@uky.edu.

Master Gardener classes are designed for those who wish to become certified volunteers. Graduates complete 40 hours of service work and continuing education within one year of class completion in order to become certified Master Gardeners.

In subsequent years, Master Gardeners must complete at least 20 hours of volunteer service, plus 10 hours of continuing education to maintain certification.

Master Gardener volunteers may choose to join the Oldham County Master Gardener Association. The association is a great networking resource and facilitates completion of volunteer hours. Oldham County Master Gardener Association also organizes and helps teach gardening programs for the public. Learn about upcoming Master Gardener programs at: oldham.ca.uky.edu/OC-Master-Gardeners.

Written by Traci Missun, Oldham County Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent, and Lauren Fernandez,Oldham County Extension Staff Assistant.