Master Gardeners combine knowledge and technique to create colorful landscapes.
Master Gardener programs took off in the 1970s, when people became interested in growing their own food and tending to their own Edens. Today, courses are offered in every U.S. state and county through the cooperative learning extensions of local land-grant universities. The AgriLife Extension of the Texas A&M University system is responsible for conducting Master Gardener courses in Bexar County, Texas, which includes San Antonio.
AgriLife Extension
Each state manages a Master Gardener program, but hours and cost of training vary from region to region. Bexar County Master Gardener courses take place during the spring, summer and fall. The classes are advertised through the local media as well as on the AgriLife website. An individual must apply and be accepted into the program. Texas Master Gardeners complete at least 50 hours of training by horticulturists and university agents. Among the many subjects San Antonio master gardeners in training learn are xeriscaping, soil composting, urban forestry and pest management. Master Gardeners are generalists, although many are drawn to master gardening through an interest in a specific subject area. Master Gardeners are re-certified yearly through six hours of training and must commit to volunteering in the community.
San Antonio Botanical Gardens
Certified Master Gardeners are committed to public education and volunteerism. If you are interested in gardening but lack the time or interest to provide general gardening advice to the public, consider taking courses through the San Antonio Botanical Gardens, which offers nature trail walks with certified Master Gardeners. Adult education courses include landscaping, water management and arborist certification. Children's programs and summer day camps are also offered.
San Antonio Garden Center, Inc.
The San Antonio Garden Center offers free public lectures on a variety of gardening issues and projects. The courses run monthly from September through May. The center's Schools of Instruction in Floral Design and Flower Show Judging offer longer courses and educational opportunities.
Tags: Master Gardeners, Master Gardener, AgriLife Extension, Antonio Botanical, Antonio Botanical Gardens
