If you are interested in becoming an Arkansas Master Gardener, now is the time to apply. We have pivoted the fall Master Gardener training from Zoom to Online. This current online training will be open for two months for trainees to complete.

According to a press release, “This program would be of interest to anyone who would like to sharpen their horticulture knowledge and skills,” Berni Kurz, extension educator-consumer horticulture for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said.

Master Gardener's online training fee is typical $150 but Miller County Extension Service is pleased to offer this online training for $100. The $100 training cost covers your book, training materials, name badge, and first year’s dues. The fee should be remitted along with the Training Application, and the (signed) Volunteer Agreement.

This year’s Master Gardener training will be up and running by October 15, 2021. This online course is self-paced and registrants have until December 15 to complete the course.

The deadline to have your applications into our office is September 27, 2021 (late applications will not be accepted). Applications are available through your Miller County Extension Service, located at 1007 Jefferson Ave, Texarkana AR, or the application is available online.  If you have any questions or would like an application mailed or emailed to you, please call 870-779-3609 or email jmoody@uada.edu

“Individuals will be able to complete an online horticulture training program designed for homeowners who are interested in becoming a Master Gardener volunteer through their local County Extension office,” says Kurz. Those with no, or limited internet access can contact our office for optional training methods.

Trainees will learn about basic botany, soils and fertilizer, pest control, and pesticide use. In addition, there will be classes on landscape design, vegetable and fruit gardening, annuals and perennials, and other topics of interest to homeowners.

“Once the participant completes the course, they will be immersed in Master Gardener volunteer projects where they will be able to put newly learned skills to action and learn gardening secrets from other Master Gardeners,” Kurz said.

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