UNL Extension Horticulture
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Master Gardener Program in Saunders County
What is a Master Gardener?
Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who assist University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Extension Educators provide horticultural information to Nebraskans. The Master Gardener Program is a national program that started in Washington State in 1972. Master Gardeners provide only research-based information, giving the public accurate and tested answers to their questions.
Is Master Gardening for You?
Ask yourself these questions:
* Do I want to learn more about the culture and maintenance of many types of plants?
* Am I eager to participate in a practical and intensive training program?
* Do I look forward to sharing my knowledge with people in my community?
* Do I have enough time to attend the training and to complete 40 hours of volunteer work?
When do training classes for new Master Gardeners begin?
In 2009, training classes will be held at the UNL Extension- Dodge County Office beginning January 31st. Application deadline is January 23rd. Please contact Sarah Browning for an application, or if you have questions. Or complete the online application below. If accepted into the Master Gardener Program, you will be eligible to attend Master Gardener Training.
What subjects will be covered during training?
The program covers topics in botany, soils, fertilizers, lawn care, vegetable gardening, annual and perennial flowers, trees and shrubs, water gardening, insect, disease and weed control. Classes are taught by University of Nebraska Extension staff.
What is the cost of Master Gardener training?
The cost to attend the basic 40 hours of training is $150.00, which includes the Master Gardener handbook, the turfgrass management guide and all other classroom handouts.
What type of volunteer activities can I choose to participate in?
In exchange for training, participants are required to volunteer one hour of service for each hour of training received, but many people give even more. Half of the required 40 hours, or 20 hours, must be spent on the phone panel answering Nebraskans horticulture questions. The remaining 20 hours can be used planting or maintain designated public gardens, making horticulture presentations to civic and garden clubs, helping with special horticulture events. Many volunteer projects are available and every gardener is welcome; no matter how "green" you are- we'll find a volunteer activity to suit you!
What is required after the first year?
Master Gardeners must re-certify annually to remain active in the program. Re-certification consists of completing 10 additional hours of classroom training, and completing 20 or more hours of volunteer service, 10 of which must be spent answering questions on the phone panel.
For more information contact:
Sarah Browning
Extension Educator
University of Nebraska- Lincoln Extension
1206 W. 23rd Street
Fremont, NE 68025
(402) 727-2775
sbrowning2@unl.edu
Or complete the on-line application.
