Registration open for MU Extension Master Gardener class in Carthage

CARTHAGE, Mo. — Registration is open for the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener fall 2026 course in southwestern Missouri. The class runs Aug. 6 to Oct. 15.

An informational session on July 2 will give an overview of the course. Registration deadline is Aug. 6.

The core training course is designed to provide in-depth horticultural knowledge, says MU Extension Master Gardener state coordinator Debi Kelly. The course includes presentations and weekly discussion forums 5-7 p.m. Thursdays at the Jasper County Courthouse in Carthage.

MU Extension horticulture specialists Matthew Huchteman and Kelly McGowan are instructors for the course. MU Extension agronomist Micah Doubledee and Jack “JJ” Spurlin of Lincoln University also will teach sessions.

To become an Extension Master Gardener, participants must complete the training and volunteer at least 30 hours in the first year and 20 hours per year afterward through MU Extension.

Gardening is an activity with many rewards, Huchteman says. “One of those rewards is the satisfaction of sharing your plant knowledge with others,” says Huchteman. The Extension Master Gardener program provides in-depth horticultural training to individuals who then help others learn about gardening and the environment, he says.

“The program’s motto, ‘helping others learn to grow,’ emphasizes service to others as the program’s main objective,” McGowan says.

Participants will learn about the mission of the Extension Master Gardener program and gain a working knowledge of the fundamentals of gardening and its terminology. The course provides a foundation in plant structure and function, soils and plant nutrition, plant propagation, fruits and vegetables, herbaceous and woody plants, insects, plant diseases, landscape design, lawns and safe pesticides use.

Core training is the first step toward Extension Master Gardener certification. Local coordinators help trainees find volunteer opportunities to meet the service requirement.

Extension Master Gardener programs are offered in every U.S. state and most Canadian provinces.

Details and registration. Learn more about the program at the Extension Master Gardener website.

The instructors ask that participants register under their name as they would like it to appear on the course completion certification. This cannot be changed after registration. Include your email address when registering.

For more information, contact Huchteman at huchtemanm@missouri.edu or 417-358-2158.