The University of Tennessee and Master Gardeners of Hamilton County announce that registration is open for the 2018 Master Gardener Training Course. Classes run from early January through the end of April and take place at the UT Extension office, 6183 Adamson Circle (off Bonny Oaks Drive) in Chattanooga.
There are two class options: Monday evenings beginning Jan. 7 from 6-9 p.m. and Tuesday mornings beginning Jan. 8 from 9 a.m.-noon. Classes meet for 15 consecutive weeks (40 hours) ending with a graduation ceremony in April.
"The UT / Master Gardener Training Course is open to both experienced and beginning
gardeners and offers the most current, research-based information available on topics
related to home gardening and landscaping," officials said. Subjects to be covered in the 15-week course including soil and water management, mulch and fertilizers, controlling pests and
plant diseases, basic landscaping, vegetable, flower and herb gardening, understanding
native plants, attracting wildlife, beekeeping and other related gardening issues.
The cost of the Master Gardener Training Course is $170 per person, which includes a
comprehensive information handbook, numerous handouts and much more.
Couples
taking the class and sharing materials may enroll for $270. A limited number of
scholarships are available. Applications can be obtained at the Master Gardeners of
Hamilton County
website or by phone at 423-855-6113. For questions,
contact Tom Stebbins, extension agent, at tstebbins@utk.edu.
Extension Agent Tom Stebbins said, “Each year we offer our Master Gardener
Training Classes for an eager group of interested gardeners. Over the 15-week course,
they are introduced to the most up-to-date information about gardening and landscaping
techniques presented by UT Extension specialists and local experts in horticulture. Our
own experienced Master Gardeners serve as mentors and guides into the many
volunteer activities undertaken by MGHC members all around Hamilton County. In
addition to 40 hours of informative lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on experience,
trainees attend MG meetings and earn both volunteer hours and education credits
toward becoming Certified Master Gardener Volunteers. We look forward to meeting
new Master Gardeners at this year’s classes and welcoming them into our community.”