Healthy Eating
Master Gardeners
WHAT IS A MASTER GARDENER?
Master Gardener is a garden enthusiast who has a desire to foster and promote an interest in gardening and share their knowledge with others. Master Gardeners volunteer their time to assist people with horticulture in our own community.
WHAT DOES A MASTER GARDENER DO?
Master Gardeners use their skills in a variety of areas that may include participating with gardening demonstrations, lectures, school and community gardening projects, or research. Volunteers may find fulfillment in participating or assisting with projects such as:
• Harvesting and packing food for the hungry;
• Designing and installing community landscape and beautification projects;
• Creating in programs for the handicapped or senior citizens;
• Researching and writing newsletters and articles, information sheets or brochures;
• Developing new programs in gardening;
• Answering gardening questions at garden centres, flower shows, libraries, shopping centres;
• Providing instruction on the proper care of lawns, shrubs, trees and flowers in your neighbourhood;
• Promoting and generating an appreciation in environmental sustainability.
HOW DO I BECOME A MASTER GARDENER?
Interested garden enthusiasts can apply through the UNBC Continuing Studies program. Offered in collaboration with the David Douglas Botanical Garden Society, UNBC will offer a 78-hour comprehensive training course providing up-to-date information on all gardening basics. The course combines home study, classroom instruction and assignments and students will learn about botany, soils, trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, and composting. All topics will be relevant to Northern BC. For certification, a volunteer component of 20 hours is required and the DDBGS will coordinate projects and assignments to assist in obtaining completion.
WHAT IS MY COMMITMENT?
The purpose of the Master Gardener Program is to train citizens as horticultural-educated volunteers who will work in partnership with their community to expand educational outreach. Master Gardeners will contribute at least 20 hours of service annually.
For more information: Master Gardener Program at UNBC