NDSU Extension Service Schedules Fall Master Gardener Program

The North Dakota State University Extension Service is offering a master gardener program beginning Sept. 8, with classes held each Friday through Oct. 27. The locations for the Interactive Video Network broadcasts are Fargo, Grand Forks, Valley City, Bismarck, Minot, Hettinger and Dickinson.

The classes will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The classes are introductory courses in basic horticulture that emphasize sustainability and will cover the subject matter broadly. Topics include home landscape design; tree, shrub and flower selection and culture; turfgrass management; basic soil science; insect, disease and weed problems; pruning; fertilizer use; vegetable gardening; and basic skills in communicating gardening information.

Fees for the classes are $100 for those who will volunteer time to their county Extension Service after the classes. For those who cannot or do not wish to volunteer, the cost is $200. Participants will receive a complete notebook on the course, along with additional handouts pertinent to the particular class being taught.

After finishing the classes and passing the final exam with a score of 80 percent or more, and completing 48 hours of volunteer time (approved by the county agent) during the following year, a master gardener certificate will be awarded to each individual.

The registration deadline is Aug. 25. For additional information and to register for the course, contact your county agent.

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Source: Ron Smith, (701) 231-8161, ronsmith@ndsuext.nodak.edu
Editor: Rich Mattern, (701) 231-6136, richard.mattern@ndsu.edu