MSU Gallatin County Extension Master Gardener Level 1

Starting Tuesday, February 7, 2012, running consecutive Tuesdays, until April 3, this eight-week course is intended for beginner to intermediate gardeners who want to be more successful in vegetable or flower gardening and to better understand yard and garden maintenance.

Topics covered in the Level 1 Master Gardener Program include: an introduction to Montana State University Extension and the Master Gardener Program, soils and fertility, plant growth and development, flower and vegetable gardening, planting and maintaining trees and shrubs; an introduction to proper pruning and maintaining lawns; and an introduction to integrated pest management.

Course participants must pass an open book exam and satisfy the 20-hour volunteer commitment to receive a certificate of completion and a Montana Master Gardener t-shirt and pin.

The cost of the eight-week class is $165, which includes the Montana Master Gardener Handbook and other materials. Included in the cost is a $70 deposit that is refunded upon completion of 20 hours of community volunteer commitment. December 1, 2012 is the deadline date to complete volunteer commitment and be eligible to receive refund. The volunteer commitment may include activities such as answering questions at the local farmer’s market, assisting local garden groups, volunteering at local community gardens, donating time and food to the local food banks and pantries, and other horticulture-based volunteer projects. Projects will be discussed in more detail in class.

To sign up for the Gallatin County MSU Extension Master Gardener Level 1 program beginning Tuesday, February 7, call the Gallatin County MSU Extension office at (406) 388-3213 or visit us at 201 West Madison, Ste. 300, in Belgrade.