If you are a local gardener, or if you would like to explore the wonderful world of gardening, there is an opportunity for you in the new year.
The Seneca County Master Gardeners will be conducting a series of classes, from Jan. 30 until March 27, leading to certification as an Ohio State Master Gardener.
Every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., instructors from Ohio State and some local professionals will be lecturing and demonstrating in their fields of expertise.
The program topics include soil testing, pesticide use, botany, tree identification, pruning, lawn care, landscaping, perennials, annuals, herbs, plant propagation, invasive insects, entomology, growing fruits and vegetables, composting and more.
In addition to the horticultural training from dedicated and enthusiastic instructors, participants will learn computer skills associated with the Master Gardener Resource Line that will enable them to research their own questions as well as help those accessing the resource line.
Once qualified, and upon completing an internship, the new Master Gardeners will be able to participate in a wide
Fact Box
Class is forming
Those interested in becoming a Master Gardener should call Cindy at (419) 447-9722. She then will send an information package and an application form.
The class is to be limited to 25 people.
If you have additional questions, feel free to email me at janetdelturco@yahoo.com or call me at (419) 618-7069. I would be happy to hear from you.
- Janet Del Turco
range of experiences with an enthusiastic group of like-minded people.
Community service is a main goal of the program.
We care for the entrance beds at Seneca County Fairgrounds, water, weed and cultivate the bed at the entrance to Tiffin on SR 101 in the city landscaping program, and conduct a major plant sale in connection with the second local flea market of the year.
We also staff a resource line during the growing season through which we research
and answer questions from the public.
One of the intangible benefits is the opportunity to join with other gardeners and make friends.
I went through the training in 2000, and some of my closest friends are those I have met through the program. To spend time with other people who are as dedicated to gardening as you are is a true gift.
Meetings are monthly, on the second Tuesday evening of the month at the Extension Office on SR?100, and information is shared regarding workshops, lecture series, conventions and other programs throughout the state, as well as those we plan ourselves and offer to members as well as to the public.
The committee structure of the organization would give you an opportunity to share your interests in education, publicity, directing the resource line, planning and carrying out community service projects, dealing with membership issues and helping with the plant sale.
The cost for the nine days of daylong sessions is $175, and participants will receive a large manual covering all facets of gardening, as well as handouts from many of the speakers. Lunch is on your own, and you can brown-bag it or go out to area restaurants.
Background checks
and finger-printing will be conducted for the safety of us all.
This would be a wonderful Christmas gift for a family member or friend who is hard to buy for. This is a fits-all present sure to please.
Janet Del Turco is a local gardener and a graduate of the Ohio State University Master Gardener program. Contact her at janetdelturco@yahoo.com.
