Who Are Master Gardeners?

Master Gardeners are volunteers who have received over 60 hours of training from Extension Educators and State Specialists from the University of Illinois. Training covers the following home horticulture topics:

• Landscaping
• Botany
• Integrated Pest Management
• Soils and Fertilizers
• Herbs
• Wildlife
• Woody Ornamentals
• Plant Pathology
• Entomology
• Turfgrass
• Vegetables
• Houseplants

What Do Master Gardeners Do?

Piatt County Master Gardeners have the opportunity to expand their knowledge base by participating in monthly educational programs provided by the University of Illinois specialists and educators as well as onsite visits to local nurseries, the Idea Garden at the U of I, plant and flower exhibitions, etc. In exchange for the training, Master Gardeners in Piatt County volunteer their time to help homeowners and gardeners.

How Can a Master Gardener Help Piatt County Residents?

• If you have questions about raising fruits or vegetables.
• If you are exhibit chairman for a community festival.
• If you need information about lawn care.
• If the insects have invaded your flower garden.
• If you are program chairman for a civic organization and need a speaker.
• If you have concerns of any of the horticulture subjects listed previously.
• Weekly and monthly horticulture columns in the local Piatt County newspaper and the Piatt County Extension newsletter.

A Master Gardener Can Help!

How Can Piatt County Master Gardeners Be Contacted?

Master Gardeners may be contacted throughout the spring and summer at the Piatt County Extension office. A Master Gardener is in the office on Tuesday mornings from 9:00 a.m. until noon to answer your questions. Other times, referrals will be made to Master Gardeners. Office hours begin April and extend through October. Call the Extension office at 762-2191, or stop by 210 S. Market Street in Monticello to visit with a Master Gardener. Bring samples for help with identification and disease problems.

How Can Local Citizens Become Master Gardeners?

If interested, contact the Piatt County Extension office at 762-2191 for further registration information.