Apply now for Johnson County K-State Extension Master Gardener program

If you enjoy gardening, working with others, and having fun while sharing your passion, then the Extension Master Gardener (EMG) program may be just the opportunity for you. Applications are now being accepted for the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Master Gardener Class of 2024 training program. The application deadline is June 30, 2023.

Training sessions are held every Thursday from September 7 to December 14, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All classes will be conducted in-person and or online. In-person classes will be conducted at the Johnson County Extension office, 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite 1500, in Olathe. There is a $125 administration fee for those accepted into the class. Class members must be Johnson County residents.

Only 30 applicants are accepted into this prestigious program. Applicants are selected based on gardening and volunteering experience, ability to attend training sessions and volunteer activities, and, most importantly, willingness to commit long-term to the annual volunteer service requirement. Gardeners who join the program bring many different experience levels and interests to the program. If you are a novice gardener, do not let the title of Extension Master Gardener intimidate you. Your love of gardening and passion for sharing your garden experience is the basis for success.

An orientation session to learn more about the program will be held on Monday, May 15th, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Extension Office. Preregistration is required for the orientation. Please contact Heather Cwach, Horticulture Office Professional, at Heather.Cwach@jocogov.org.

The EMG program, sponsored by K-State Research and Extension, is designed to teach area gardeners about horticulture and allow them to share their knowledge through various gardening-related volunteer projects. Applicants who are selected will receive intensive horticulture-related training from university experts. In return, newly trained recruits must volunteer a minimum of time each year.

EMG volunteers get involved in various projects, including maintaining demonstration gardens, staffing a gardening hotline, and giving presentations through the speakers’ bureau. Youth programs are also another avenue for volunteer participation.

If you are interested in applying for the program or want more information, please contact Johnson County Extension at (913) 7157000 or visit www.johnson.k-state. edu and click on the Extension Master Gardener link for details.