MSU Extension level 1 Master Gardener classes will take place in Fort Benton or Big Sandy in February pending pre-registration numbers. Now is your chance to participate in an excellent educational opportunity. If ten people pre-register, we will have the class, which traditionally begins in late February. Please contact the MSU Chouteau County Extension office at 622-3751 to pre-register.
The Level 1 Master Gardener course requires 16 hours of class time, and is taught by local Extension agents, plant professionals, and Master Gardener volunteers. For a $50.00 fee, participants will receive the Montana Master Gardener Handbook and other informative handouts pertaining to the class. Level 1 Master Gardener participants will learn about:
• Introduction to Montana State University Extension and the Master Gardener program
• Soils and fertility (N-P-K-Fe)
• Plant growth and development
• Vegetable gardening
• Growing small fruit
• Growing and caring for flowers
• Trees, shrubs, vines and pruning
• Lawns and irrigation
• Composting
• Introduction to Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Participants do not have to become certified to take the class. To become level 1 certified, participants must complete the Level 1 Master Gardener course, pass an open-book exam and fulfill volunteer commitment of a minimum of 20 hours. Please contact MSU Extension Chouteau County at 622-3751 to pre-register.
