Become a Master Gardener by completing the core training course this fall at the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Grundy County Office at 703 F Avenue, Suite 1, Grundy Center. Gardeners will learn best practices for choosing plants, designing gardens, and managing pests. Classes start in September. Those interested in applying for the course can contact their Grundy County Extension Office. Application deadline is August 1, 2015 as spaces is limited. Accepted participants will be notified by September 11, 2015.

“Starting this September, people can begin their journey to become a master gardener volunteer” said Susan DeBlieck, program specialist with ISU Extension & Outreach. “The training course includes lectures on gardening subjects, from growing vegetables and fruits to designing gardens with sustainable turf grass,” After completing the course, master gardener trainees start their work as volunteers within the community. Upon completion of the 40 hours of volunteer service, the master gardener title becomes official and they join thousands of other Iowa volunteers. “Master Gardeners provide information and education to Iowans. They are a community resource growing vegetables for food pantries, teaching fair goers about pollinators and bringing native plants back to Iowa landscapes,” said DeBlieck. In 2014 over 105,000 volunteer hours in Iowa were logged by Iowa Master Gardeners. DeBlieck notes a second enrollment option for those not interested din volunteered. Registering as a professional horticulture trainee option offers the same educational course and materials but participants earn a certificate upon completion without having to provide the 40 hours of community service.

Master Gardener core training course is provided by local ISU Extension & Outreach offices on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. starting in September through December and one Saturday daytime class on October 10 or 24 at Iowa State University in Ames. The core training course will be hosted in ISU Extension & Outreach offices in over 30 locations throughout the state