Overview

Master Gardener/Composter training usually occurs every two years. The 2009 training program is slated to begin in January 2009. The training program consists of 16 weekly four-hour sessions, including both lecture and practical exercises. Several field trips and an intensive composting training are added to the core training.

Curriculum

The Master Gardener/Composter training offers a balanced practical course in horticulture and composting:

Introduction to Horticulture

Soil and Fertilizer Management

Water Management

Controlling Garden Pests Safely

Entomology

Weed Management

Vertebrate Pests

Vegetable Culture

Fruit Tree Culture

Turfgrass Management

Ornamental Plant Culture

Composting and Green Waste Recycling

Extension Teaching and Information Delivery

Master Gardener Program Policies & Procedures

Trainees must also pass a final exam based on the materials presented during the class instruction.

Volunteer Requirements

 In exchange for the training, graduates are required to volunteer 50 hours of time to the Nevada County or Placer County Master Gardener/Composter program in the year following their training. Trainees are supported and coached by fellow Master Gardeners/Composters and the local Program Representative.

How to Apply

 If you are interested in being placed on the list for the 2009 training, residents of Nevada County can call the Nevada County UCCE office at (530) 273-0919 or residents of Placer County can call the Placer County UCCE office at (530)889-7388. Not everyone who applies becomes a Master Gardener as class size is limited.

To help you decide if you should apply for the Master Gardener/Composter training, ask yourself the following questions:

Do I want to learn more about plants, growing things, and gardening?

Am I eager to participate in a practical and intensive program?

Do I look forward to sharing my knowledge with people in my community?

Do I have enough time to attend the training sessions and complete my volunteer work?