Master Gardener training to open on Aug. 8

MADISON – Training classes will open soon for individuals to earn certification as a master gardener.

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System administers the Alabama Master Gardener Program. After certification, Master Gardeners can volunteer to support the cooperative extension’s efforts and assist other organizations that foster horticultural science and best practices in local communities.

The current Master Gardener Training Course will begin Aug. 8. This class is intended for residents of Limestone, Madison and Morgan counties.

The 13-week class will meet from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Tennessee Valley Research and Extension Center at Belle Mina, 9494 Experimental Loop Road in Madison. Visit the course page at mg.aces.edu/tricounty for detailed information.

Cost for the course is $150 and includes all course materials. Late registration will cost $175. To apply for the course, visit mg.aces.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2019/01/ANR-1155.pdf.

Individuals can mail the printed and signed application to Madison County Cooperative Extension Office, 819 Cook Ave., Huntsville, AL 35801. Accepted applicants will receive a letter in the mail with instructions to complete the required background check.

For more info, call Rhonda Britton at 256-532-1578 or email rcb0003@aces.edu or visit the Alabama Cooperative Extension website at mg.aces.edu.

After completing the course, an individual is considered a trained, volunteer educator. The Master Garden program has a two-fold purpose: increasing availability of home horticulture information through qualified volunteers and extending the land grant mission across Alabama.

In addition, course graduates can consider joining Master Gardeners of North Alabama Inc. This group was organized as a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation in 2004. People of all ages can join to expand their interest in gardening and horticulture.

Master Gardeners of North Alabama offers educational workshops to promote best practices in home gardening. Members oversee horticultural projects in schools and therapy activities to individuals with significant cognitive disabilities.

In addition, members manage a demonstration vegetable garden at Huntsville Botanical Garden and reach out to the public at community events, garden centers and speaking engagements. They provide free pH testing to homeowners and others.

For more information, call 877-252-4769 or visit mg.aces.edu/Madison or Facebook/Master Gardeners of North Alabama Inc.