OSU Master Gardener Training Classes offered in Hybrid Format

Beginning October 2024, Madison County will offer a Master Gardener Volunteer hybrid training to the residents of Madison and surrounding counties. The Master Gardener Volunteer Program provides broad instruction in horticulture for enthusiasts of any skill level or interest who then volunteer their time assisting with educational programs and activities for Ohio residents through their local OSU Extension county office. Volunteers are not required to have gardening skills or knowledge; but a passion for learning about gardening and sharing this knowledge with others is a must!

In addition to the training, a Master Gardener certification will be awarded after the completion of 50 volunteer hours at OSUE sponsored projects or approved activities of their choice. Recent events include: Elementary petunia planting, Make-it Take-it events, development and care of the Community Mural Park, providing grants and scholarships to community students and groups, researching and responding to horticulture questions from the public, teaching gardening techniques to adults or children and other special projects. There are many opportunities to obtain hours either with a “hands-in-the-dirt” group project or as a “behind-the-scenes” individual contributor supporting non-physical activities. To maintain annual certification, Master Gardener Volunteers are asked to provide at least twenty hours of service and complete at least ten hours of continuing education annually. You will be surprised how quickly 20 hours goes once you get involved in a project you enjoy!

This program will be a blended format utilizing online, self-paced modules and in-person hands-on laboratory sessions. One laboratory will be offered monthly and participants are required to complete a minimum of seven. Laboratory examples may include visits to local nurseries, arboretums, trial gardens, turf farms, etc. An introductory meeting will be set up with all applicants to answer questions, clarify the program and set expectations.

The cost of the course is $200. Applications and course fee are due September 10.

You can learn more and register online at go.osu.edu/MadisonMGV or request an application through the office. Contact Amanda Douridas at [email protected] or 740-852-0975 with any questions about becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer.

You don’t want to miss out on this great opportunity to increase your horticultural knowledge, develop wonderful new friendships, and share your knowledge with others.