HOWARD COUNTY
                                    MASTER GARDENER PROGRAM                                  

Purpose of the Master Gardener Program:   The Master Gardener Program is one way the Purdue University Cooperaive Extension Service puts knowledge to teach people more about growing plants and to more effectively extend information related to plants. Its specific aim is to provide information and technical assistance in the area of gardening and home horticulture through the use of trained and certified volunteers.  Participants in turn, share their knowledge and help others grow by providing volunteer leadership, education, and service to their communities in gardening subject matter. 

How Do I Become A Master Gardener

• Call the Howard County Extension Office at (765) 456-2313 and leave your name, address, home and work phone number and if you prefer a morning or evening class.
• You will be sent information about the next class.
• After atending the orientation class and deciding that you want to continue with the classes.  The classes are once a weekly lasting 3 to 4 hours in length.
• You achieve the rank of Master Gardener Intern by completing the required training and passing an exam witha 70% success.
• Master Gardener Interns are required to volunteer a minimum of 35 hours to become  a certified Purdue Master Gardener. 

   Why Become A Master Gardener?

        You can grow in several ways when you become a Purdue Master Gardener -- the ways you grow and how far you go are up to you!

• Increase your knowledge on a wide array of gardening subjects through a structured training program.
• This increased knowledge will give you the skills - and the confidence - to teach others in your community, either one-on-one or in a group setting.
• Sharing your gardening knowledge with others will help improve the quality of life in your community. 
• If desired, use the leadership training and experience from your activities in the Purdue Master Gardener Program as a springboard to other forms of community leadership.

  Master Gardener Topics

Plant Science                                             Plant Nutrition                                      Soil Science

Plant Disease Diagnosis/Control                  Insect Pest Diagnosis/Control               Weed Identification/Control

  Pesticide Safety/Pesticide Alternatives         Woody Ornamentals                           Vegetables

Herbaceous Ornamentals                             Home Lawns                                      Animal Pests

In addition, training may include these areas: 

Principles of Landscape Design                    Home Fruit Production                         Yard Waste Management  

How Do I Become A Master Gardener

• Call the Howard County Extension Office at (765) 456-2313 and leave your name, address, home and work phone number and if you prefer a morning or evening class.
• You will be sent information about the next class.
• After atending the orientation class and deciding that you want to continue with the classes.  The classes are once a weekly lasting 3 to 4 hours in length.
• You achieve the rank of Master Gardener Intern by completing the required training and passing an exam with a 70% success.
• Master Gardener Interns are required to volunteer a minimum of 35 hours to become a certified Purdue Master Gardener.
  

       Community Garden Home Page

Agriculture & Natural Rescources Home Page

Junior Master Gardener Home Page

 Howard County Home Page