Queen Anne’s County will be offering Master Gardener Training on Thursdays mornings from 9am-3pm, beginning on February 5 and continuing through April 16, 2009. The training consists of a 40+ course designed to provide basic information in preparation for volunteering as a Master Gardener representative of the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension. Classes will be held at the Wye River Education Center and Adkins Arboretum.

Among the experts speaking are: Buck Schuler of Adkins Arboretum, pruning; Herb Reed, septic systems; Dr. Mike Raupp from the University of Maryland, insects and Bob Stewart, plant diseases. Be one of the first to learn about Maryland’s new veggie initiative “grow it, eat it” from the University of Maryland’s expert Jon Traunfeld. Other topics include ecology, botany, soils, plant propagation, diseases, pest management and preserving your harvest.

The Master Gardener program emphasizes community involvement and outreach as well as environmental stewardship. A $225 fee, $25 due with registration, is charged to cover all costs including the Maryland Master Gardener Handbook, an extensive and useful reference for all aspects of gardening. The program is open to residents of Queen Anne’s and surrounding counties. Contact the QAC Extension Office (410) 758-0166 or visit the Extension office at 505 Railroad Avenue, Suite 4, Centreville, MD 21617.