The Ohio State University Extension offices in Jefferson and Harrison Counties are currently accepting new applications for the 2019 Master Gardener Volunteer training program. Master Gardener Volunteers in Ohio contributed over 180,000 hours of service each year and offer assistance with home horticultural questions, pest identification, school programs, demonstrations, research, and continuing education programs. Participants interested in receiving the 50 hour intensive training will learn about basic botany, plant physiology, soils, entomology, plant pathology, plant diagnostics, integrated pest management, pesticide use and safety, lawn care, home vegetable and fruit production, backyard wildlife management and much more! Working with county Ohio State Extension personnel, Master Gardener Volunteers provide educational services to their communities. If you are a garden enthusiast, this is a great opportunity to share your gardening know-how and skills with others in your community. Cost of the program is $100 for the 50 hour training, and participants will have the option to purchase supplemental reference materials for an additional $125.

The next class is scheduled for October 2nd to November 7th, 2019. Visit https://jefferson.osu.edu/program-areas/master-gardener-volunteers/become-jeffersonharrison-master-gardener to view the application process.