Need something new? Become a Master Gardener this fall

If you have a passion for gardening and a willingness to freely share that knowledge with your community, then you have what it takes to be an Alaska Master Gardener.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks Master Gardener program is an initiative of the Cooperative Extension Service and is a program to train volunteers in helping others become successful gardeners. Nationally, the Master Gardener program is one of the nation’s largest volunteer organizations and second only to the American Red Cross in the number of volunteers.

There are no prerequisites for becoming a Master Gardener — other than a general familiarity with Alaska gardening conditions and a commitment to return at least 40 hours of community service providing gardening information to others. Many of the judges and volunteers at the state’s fairs are Master Gardeners fulfilling their community service commitments. Other examples of service include teaching gardening classes, writing newsletter columns, classroom visits, helping organize various gardening conferences and serving as an information resource.

The classroom training to become a Master Gardener involves 40 hours of training in botany, soil science, landscape design, Integrated Pest Management, composting, greenhouse gardening, lawn care and much more. Participants learn how to diagnose problems and find answers through the vast research knowledge base of the nation’s agricultural universities. They also learn how to work with the UAF Cooperative Extension Service District agriculture/horticulture agent as community volunteers.

Although Master Gardener classes are taught throughout the state, this fall’s Mat-Su Valley class will take place in Palmer starting Sept. 11. Classes are from 6 to 9 p.m., Tuesdays at Palmer High School. Cost for the class is $150 and includes the “Alaska Master Gardeners Manual,” diagnostic tools, bulletins and other handouts.

The course will be led by district ag/horticulture agent Steve Brown, but also features many guest speakers such as horticultural expert Jeff Smeenk, legendary flower gardener Pat Tremaine and Anchorage Extension horticulture agent Julie Riley. Register online at tinyurl.com/cf57nvc. For more information, contact 745-3360.

Stephen Brown is a district agriculture and horticulture agent for the Mat-Su/Copper River District.