Spring will be here before we know it, but winter is the perfect time to learn more about plant selection, planting, care, and maintenance. The Master Gardener program offers the opportunity to learn this in a variety of ways. The purpose of the program is to disseminate horticultural information and expertise, provide for the education of gardeners to pool their skills and resources, stimulate an interest in plants and gardening, and encourage the beautification of Garland County.
Training for new Master Gardeners will be conducted once a week for five consecutive weeks (January 30, February 6, 13, 20 and 27) at the Garland County Fairgrounds. Sessions will have cover topics such as pruning, selecting plants, constructing greenhouses, vegetable gardens, succulents, and herbs. Presenters include Extension Office personnel, Master Gardeners, and individuals from the community who have expertise in specific areas.
Regardless of whether living in Saline, Garland, Hot Spring, Montgomery, or Grant County, to become a Master Gardener first submit an application to the County Extension Office. In mid-December, each applicant will be invited to have a personal interview. To cover the expense of materials, a fee of $135.00 is charged. First year Master Gardeners must volunteer for 40 hours and complete 20 hours of education. Subsequent years require 20 hours of volunteering and 20 hours of education.
In part, Master Gardeners volunteer at the city greenhouse, Garvan Gardens, Habitat for Humanity, and the Detention Center Greenhouse in Hot Springs and at Cortez Pavilion, the Farmer’s Market for “Ask a Master Gardener”, and Yard of the Month selection in Hot Springs Village.
Request an application online by emailing adykes@uaex.edu. For Garland and Saline Counties, you may also drop by the Extension Office located at 236 Woodbine in Hot Springs to pick up a form.
