Description
The Extension Master Gardener program was established in Missouri in 1983 and provides in-depth horticultural training for Missourians who wish to share their knowledge of gardening. The mission of the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener program is to support MU Extension by providing trained volunteers to assist in public horticulture education.
This course prepares Extension Master Gardeners in topics related to soils, plant nutrition, vegetables, fruits, ornamental woody plants, herbaceous plants, plant propagation, disease and insect control, lawn care, residential landscape, environmental stewardship, and safe use of pest management strategies.
Extension Master Gardener volunteers assist MU Extension by utilizing unbiased research-based information to educate, answer frequently asked gardening questions, teach through demonstration gardens, donate produce, present as speakers' bureaus, and share information. To become trained as an Extension Master Gardener, an individual must attend core training and provide 30 hours of volunteer service back to their community.
Syllabus
Incorrect names (nicknames, abbreviations, or test entries) are difficult to correct and may delay or prevent certificate issuance.
- To understand the mission of the Missouri Master Gardener Program and how it functions.
- To acquire a working knowledge of the fundamental principles of plant growth and development.
- To apply concepts of plant growth and development to everyday situations and uses in horticulture.
- To learn basic terminology associated with the art and science of horticulture.
- To gain an appreciation of horticulture as a life-long pursuit.
- Plants and their environment;
- Plant propagation;
- Soils, plant nutrition and nutrient management;
- Vegetable gardening;
- Fruit production;
- Establishment and care of woody ornamentals;
- Pruning ornamental trees and shrubs;
- Herbaceous ornamentals;
- Managing lawn and turfgrass;
- Landscaping your front yard;
- Insects;
- Preventing and managing plant diseases;
- Using pesticides safely around the home and garden.
