Master Gardner intern training starting in July

Press Release

Gardeners wanting to sharpen their skills and serve their communities will find all of that and more in the Master Gardener Intern Training program.

Beginning Aug.16th, the Purdue Master Gardener Intern Training Program will be offered for interested residents of Bartholomew County and surrounding areas. The training provides a learning framework for participants to increase their knowledge on a wide range of horticultural subjects. In turn, participants contribute knowledge, leadership, and service in educational gardening activities within their community. Thirty-five hours of volunteer service are needed for a participant to certify as a Purdue Master Gardener.

Training will be held on Thursday mornings, 9 a.m. until noon, mostly at the Purdue Extension – Bartholomew County offices. The training will begin with an orientation on Aug.16th, and continue through Nov. 15th. Topics will include woody landscape plants, vegetable gardening, plant problem diagnosis and control, pesticides and alternatives, lawn care, animal damage control, and herbaceous plants. On-site experiences will include class sessions in a local orchard, garden center, and a community garden. Walkabouts to view insects, plant diseases, and weeds close-up will also be featured.

Materials for the series begin at $70, depending on the format selected. Fee assistance is available.

Those interested may find applications at the Purdue University Extension office in Columbus, and at tinyurl.com/yadzb7me . They are due by Aug. 3rd. Applicants will be notified by Aug. 9 as to the status of their application.