December 12, 2022 – University of Illinois Extension’s “Master Gardener” program registration is now open until January 5.
The mission of the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener program is “Helping Others Learn to Grow.” Training covers topics such as vegetable and flower gardening, insects and plant diseases, healthy soils, and trees and shrubs. Master Gardener 2023 training options include a self-paced online, or a hybrid ‘flipped classroom’ style with various day and evening opportunities in each county.
Participants may begin self-paced online training in January, May, or September. Each module consists of several videos and an online quiz, so a strong internet connection is highly recommended. Participants should plan to set aside about four hours per week for videos, reading the manual, and completing quizzes for the successful completion of the training. Registration for the winter online class is open until January 5, and classes must be completed within 14 weeks.
The hybrid training begins in February and offers a mixture of independent study, virtual training with educators, and in-person activities. Coursework will be available online, and live classes will be held on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon at the DeWitt County Extension Office. Live classes will include a short lecture, discussion, and activity. Registration for hybrid training is open now until January 27. Classes will begin on February 7 and end on April 18. A fall hybrid training will be offered from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursdays beginning September 14 and ending on December 7 in Macon and Piatt counties.
“After training, volunteers may participate in programs like food donation and demonstration gardens,” says Horticulture Educator Sarah Vogel. “Other volunteer opportunities include answering calls or emails from the public; speaking at garden clubs, civic groups, and schools; or assisting in educational outreach opportunities like articles, brochures, or workshops.”
Participants may register for either training option at go.illinois.edu/MGTrainingDmp. For more information about the training, connect with your local University of Illinois Extension Program Coordinators Whitney Allison in Macon County at 217-877-6042 or Beth Miglin in DeWitt County at 217-935-5764 and Piatt County at 217-762-2191. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact the program coordinator. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.
