Take part in Master Gardener program

Anyone who enjoys gardening, and who would like to learn and share their gardening knowledge, are invited to take part in the Master Gardener program.

Attendance at 12 Master Gardener training classes is required to complete the training. The training series is offered Fridays, beginning in January of even numbered years. Each class runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Master Gardeners participate in more than 60 hours of training on botany, vegetables, lawn care, tree and small fruits, diseases, insects, soils, composting, pesticide safety, fertilizers, pruning, trees and flowers.

The sessions are taught by horticulture experts, including University of Illinois specialists and Extension educators. Training is coordinated by area horticulture Extension educators. The emphasis of the information is practical, yet research-based.

Cost of the program is approximately $295, which includes the Master Gardener manual and additional training materials. In addition to the training, Master Gardeners give back at least 60 hours of volunteer time to Lake County Extension programs that first year.

If you are interested in becoming a Master Gardener, visit web.extension.illinois.edu/lm. The application deadline is Sept. 30.