Are you interested in becoming a better gardener? You can learn to garden like a master through the Georgia Master Gardener Program.
Master Gardener volunteers improve their knowledge of horticulture and gardening skills as they help others solve problems in the landscape and garden. The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service trains Master Gardener volunteers to assist in local Extension Service programs. The Extension Service provides a range of services and information including soil testing, water sampling, informational publications, educational programs, exhibits and activities.
Coweta County Extension Service participates in an area Master Gardener training each year with Extension Services in Carroll, Douglas, Polk, Haralson and Paulding counties. The training, sponsored by the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service, will be held at the Carroll County Ag-Ed Center each Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon Jan. 25-April 7, 2005.
Faculty from The University of Georgia, Extension agents, and other landscaping and horticulture specialists will be conducting the program. Participants will review the basics of horticulture including soil structure, plant nutrition, plant physiology, pathology, and entomology. Other topics of interest will be covered, such as plant selection, water wise landscaping, planting/maintaining ornamentals, urban trees, turf, and plant identification. Special sessions will include vegetable gardening, composting, organic gardening, and specialty gardening.
The program prepares Master Gardener volunteers to assist with their local County Extension Service program. Fifty hours of volunteer service are required for Master Gardener certification. A registration fee of $125 includes 40 hours of training and resource materials which includes the Georgia Master Gardener Handbook.
A limited number of applicants will be accepted into the program. Selection is based on individual ability and willingness to serve as a volunteer with the Coweta County Extension Service. Applications are available at the Coweta County Cooperative Extension Service, 21 East Washington Street, Newnan. The registration deadline is Dec. 1.
