Media Release

Master Gardeners are citizens helping citizens who:

·         Improve the efficiency of the Extension Service and allow agents to develop proactive programs.

·         Extend practical applications of IFAS-based research on gardening in Florida.

·         Learn and share principles and practices of environmental horticulture.

·         Volunteer to promote environmental awareness at a broad level.

·         Serve as ambassadors of goodwill for the County and the State of Florida.

Ideal applicants are:

·         Committed to volunteering and able to communicate horticulture knowledge with diverse people in Alachua County.

·         Available to spend time volunteering, and attending monthly meetings, field trips and training sessions.

·         Gardening enthusiasts and have a desire to learn and practice environmentally-friendly horticulture methods and share this information with others.

·         Eager to learn horticulture by actively participating in an intensive two month training program and committed to livelong learning continuing education activities.

Master Gardener Program certification training begins September 2, 2010. This training includes classroom lectures and group activities, field trips and site visits. Participants will take weekly quizzes and a final exam, and receive pesticide training. Participants receive study/reference materials including a three volume set of Master Gardener Workbooks, the Florida Lawn Handbook, and insect identification sheets.  The cost of the training is $120.00.

To maintain your certification as a Master Gardener you are expected to volunteer a minimum of 75 hours the first year and 35 hours in following years, and complete at least 10 hours of continuing education/training per year.

For more information click here, or call the Alachua County Extension Office at 352-955-2402.