If you want to sharpen your gardening skills and have an interest in sharing your knowledge with others, Purdue University has the ideal program for you.
Beginning March 5, a Purdue Master Gardener Program training series will be offered for residents of Jackson and Jennings counties and surrounding areas.
The volunteer training program provides a learning framework for participants to increase their knowledge on a wide variety of horticultural subjects. In turn, participants volunteer, representing Purdue University. As volunteers, participants grow by sharing knowledge while providing leadership and service in educational gardening activities within their communities.
Training will be Monday nights at Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge, 12985 E. U.S. 50, Seymour. Classes will run from 6 to 9 p.m. for 14 weeks.
Participants will be exposed to a wide range of subjects, including soil and plant science, diagnosis of plant problems, pesticide safety and culture of vegetable, flower, landscape and fruit plants.
Materials and expenses for the series of classes cost $100 per participant. This fee covers such items as reference notebooks, mailings and name badges. These materials all become part of the Master Gardener’s personal collection.
While the class will be encouraged to create new educational outreach programs, there are already plenty of opportunities for which volunteers are needed. Some of these projects include staffing information booths at gardening events and fairs, teaching public education classes, speaking to local clubs and organizations, along with other activities.
If you would like an application to join the league of volunteers or have questions about the program, contact Richard Beckort in Jackson County at 812-358-6101 or Kamille Brawner in Jennings County at 812-352-3033.
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What: Purdue Master Gardener Program
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Mondays beginning March 5
How long: 14 weeks
Where: Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge, 12985 E. U.S. 50, Seymour
Cost: $100 per participant
Information: Richard Beckort in Jackson County at 812-358-6101 or Kamille Brawner in Jennings County at 812-352-3033
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