To aid you in deciding if the Master Gardener program is suited for you or if you are suited for it, ask yourself the following simple questions:

1) Do I want to learn more about the culture and maintenance of many varieties of plants?
2) Do I wish to learn about and employ environmentally responsible gardening practices?
3) Am I eager to participate in a practical and intense training program?
4) Am I prepared and committed to complete the required volunteer service?
5) Am I willing to share my knowledge with others in the community?
6) Do I want to become a member of a closely-knit organization which promotes community involvement?

If you are able to answer “yes” to these questions, the Walker County Master Gardener program could be for you. This is a commitment from which you will reap benefits for years to come; it’s a constant learning experience, and the friendships you make will last for years to come.

Master Gardeners are representatives of Texas Cooperative Extension. Their charter is to support all Extension programs and in all volunteer work, Master Gardeners follow the research-based recommendations of Texas Cooperative Extension. The title “Texas Master Gardener” can be used by volunteers only when engaged in activities sponsored by Extension. The Master Gardener program is supported entirely by Texas Cooperative Extension.

Who is a Walker County Master Gardener

Texas Master Gardeners are members of the local community who have been accepted into the Master Gardener training program in Walker County, have attended 50 hours of instruction and have committed 50 hours of volunteer service to Walker County’s Texas Cooperative Extension program in order to attain certification.

What topics are covered in the MG course curriculum?

The course will begin in January with a welcome reception for new class members, and the last class will be around May 1st. Unless otherwise noted, all classes will be held on each Thursday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

The typical curriculum for the course will be as follows:

• Botany,
• Soils & Fertilizers,
• Plant Propagation,
• Pathology,
• Pesticide Safety,
• Landscape Design & Maintenance,
• Vegetables,
• Greenhouse Management,
• Native Plants,
• Basic Entomology,
• Composting,
• Turf grasses and Herbs.
• Two tours are scheduled for every year; one to the Texas A&M Range Science Lab, and the other to the Mercer Arboretum.

How will I be able to do 50 volunteer service hours?

• Some Master Gardener interns assist Extension staff with telephone duties, preparation of 4-H materials and general office duties.
• Others choose to become involved in community outreach programs such as assisting with educational tours of the Demonstration Gardens and the Greenhouse.

How many people will be in my class?

What is the fee for the Master Gardener class?

• The fee for the 15 classes (to include the tours to Texas A&M and Mercer Arboretum) is $130.00
• Master Gardener handbook is included
• Also covers the cost of a background check which is required by Texas AgriLIFE Extension for liability purposes since the Master Gardeners work so closely with youth groups
• Numerous other educational materials are distributed during the duration of the class

How do I register for the next Master Gardener class?

Contact:

Extension programs serve people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.