By Mary Rieves
Patrick County
Master Gardener
Have you ever thought about becoming a Master Gardener? We are looking for people who are interested in gardening of all kinds, would like to learn even more, and share this knowledge with others.
The Patrick County Master Gardeners and Virginia Cooperative Extension will conduct a Master Gardener Training Program starting September. This program was developed by Virginia Tech and operates under its supervision.
Classes will begin September 20 and end on November 10. The classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. at Reynolds Homestead.
Students will receive 50 hours of instruction consisting of lectures, online programs, hands-on-field work and homework. Upon completion, they will become master gardener interns. In return, they will promise to perform 50 hours of volunteer service. When they complete the service hours, they will become Virginia Cooperative Extension Master Gardeners. Our instructors are knowledgeable people with backgrounds in horticulture.
There is also a Master Gardener Association that students are welcome and encouraged to join. The association conducts programs and projects throughout the year that will enable students to obtain the service hours. The group meets once a month, with a business meeting and educational programs for the members.
Some of the projects for the master gardeners are the Spring Symposium in March, the annual and perennial plant sale in May, and the Stuart Farmers Market once a month in the summer. These are just a few of the projects that are ongoing.
On August 18 at 6 p.m., there will be an orientation meeting at Reynolds Homestead in the Continuing Education Building. At the meeting, participants will receive more information Master Gardeners and the training program. The fee is $100, which includes the Master Gardener Handbook and supplies used in the training. You will also be able to sign up and pay at this meeting.
If you have any questions, you may call Mary Rieves at (276) 952-3028, or the Patrick County Extension Office at (276) 694-3341.
