The deadline to submit applications for online Master Gardener basic training is noon Wednesday.
The training is a great opportunity for members to learn at their own pace. Training starts in early October and members will have until Dec. 15 to complete training, according to a news release.
Applications are available online at //bit.ly/3mDb3yB or by calling 870-779-3609 to request an application. Applications also can be turned in at the Miller County Extension Office, which is located in the Courthouse at Fourth and Laurel streets.
Cost of the training is $85 as opposed to the usual $125 due to it being an online course. This fee should be remitted along with the application.
"This program would be of interest to anyone who would like to sharpen their horticulture knowledge and skills," said Berni Kurz, extension educator-consumer horticulture for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, in a news release.
In deference to pandemic safety practices, the training was moved online.
The program is designed for homeowners who are interested in becoming a Master Gardener volunteer through their local County Extension office. Trainees will learn about basic botany, soils and fertilizer, pest control and pesticide use. In addition, there will be classes on landscape design, vegetable and fruit gardening, annuals and perennials and other topics of interest to homeowners.
"Once the participant completes the course, they will be immersed in Master Gardener volunteer projects where they will be able to put newly learned skills to action and learn gardening secrets from other Master Gardeners," Kurz said.
(For general information about the Master Gardener program in Arkansas, visit uaex.edu/yard-garden/master-gardeners/ online.)