Is the Master Gardener Program for Me?
To help you decide if you should apply to be a Master Gardener, ask yourself these questions:
* Do I want to learn more about the culture and maintenance of many types of plants?
* Am I eager to participate in a practical and intense training program?
* Do I look forward to sharing my knowledge with people in my community?
* Do I have enough time to attend training and to complete the volunteer service?
If you answered yes to these questions, the Master Gardener program could be for you. Contact your the Hamilton County Extension Office to obtain an application from the Master Gardener Coordinator at the office.
Training
If accepted into the Master Gardener program in Hamilton county, you will attend a Master Gardener training course. Classes are taught by Texas Cooperative Extension specialists, agents, and local experts.
The program offers a minimum of 50 hours of instruction that covers topics including lawn care, ornamental trees and shrubs, insect, disease, and weed management; soils and plant nutrition, vegetable gardening; home fruit production; garden flowers; and water conservation. The on-line training is offered with classes starting in January 2024. Check with the Hamilton County Extension office for specific locations, dates, and times.
Volunteer Commitment
In exchange for training, participants are asked to volunteer time to their County Extension program. At least 50 hours of volunteer service within one year following the training is required to earn the title of “Texas Master Gardener.”
The type of service done by Master Gardeners varies according to community needs, and the abilities and interests of the Master Gardeners. Some Master Gardeners answer telephone requests for information related to gardening. Others staff plant clinics or displays in shopping malls or community centers. Master Gardeners may speak to local groups and conduct workshops. They may help establish community garden projects, work with 4-H youth, or assist their agent with news or radio releases related to gardening. The Master gardener Coordinator in the County Extension office decides how volunteer time can be best utilized.
Master Gardeners are representatives of Texas AgriLife Extension Service, The Texas A&M University System. In all volunteer work related to the program, 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 Extension-sponsored activities.
Certification
Participants become certified Master Gardeners after they have completed the training course and fulfilled their volunteer commitment.
For More Information
Application forms and additional information are available from the Hamilton County Extension office at (254) 386-3919 with any inquiries, or visit them at 101 E. Henry St, Hamilton, TX 76351. If you have any questions please feel free to send us a message using the contact form linked below.