What is different about the Extension Master Gardener℠ Program?

EMG Pollinator Haven Plant Removal
EMGV Tracie Bowen sits among the plants she thinned out of the Pollinator Haven Garden in September 2022.

How is this different from coming to any other class?

The Extension Master Gardener℠ program goes beyond the classroom. It is a service leadership volunteer program that supports the program goals of the local Horticulture Agent and N.C. Cooperative Extension, Lee County Center staff, and uses the knowledge gained through classes and experiences to provide research-based information to the public about gardening. Trainees and EMGs are trained educators and program support volunteers that utilize the research-based resources of NC State University, NC A&T University and other universities to serve the community.

If you want to put your knowledge to work in your community and be a part of an organization of life-long learners, this is the program for you!

Does this program align with your goals? Check out the October 2022 Interest Meeting Presentation to learn more about us!

What do you learn during the Master Gardener℠ Training Class?

The Extension Master Gardener℠ Training Class in Lee County is a practical, hands-on series of workshop-style classes (along with homework projects!) designed to build a foundation of garden and plant knowledge, develop strong research habits, and gain confidence in gardening and plants. We will have fun as a group learning together!

The main reference for the class is The Extension Gardener Handbook, which runs a gambit of horticulture topics: Soils and Plant Nutrients; Composting; Botany; Insects; Diseases and Disorders; Weeds; Diagnostics; IPM; Lawns; Herbaceous Ornamentals; Woody Ornamentals; Native Plants; Propagation; Small Fruits; Tree Fruits and Nuts; Vegetable Gardening; Organic Gardening; Plants Grown in Containers; Landscape Design; Wildlife; Youth, Community, and Therapeutic Gardening.

Check out the Extension Gardener Handbook for free here!

Does this sound good to you? Follow these steps to join the Extension Master Gardener℠ Training Class in Lee County in 2025 (deadline in April 2025).