MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County residents interested in gardening and community service can apply for the K-State Research and Extension Master Gardener volunteer training program.
Horticulture Extension Agent Pam Paulson said the program begins Sept. 17 and includes 12 days of classes covering a broad range of topics, including vegetables, fruits, herbs, landscaping, flowers, trees, shrubs, native plants, plant propagation, insects, diseases and indoor plants.
“You don’t have to be an expert in gardening to join us,” Paulson said. “Just an interest in gardening and an interest in serving the community and providing gardening education to community members.”
Applications are due Friday, Sept. 4. The program costs $135, which covers educational materials.
Training is conducted in partnership with Master Gardener programs in Butler and Harvey counties. Classes are held at locations in Hutchinson, Newton, El Dorado, Hesston and Haysville.
Those who complete the training assist with Extension educational programs throughout the community. About 65 Master Gardeners are currently active in Reno County.
Master Gardeners maintain the demonstration garden on the Hutchinson Community College campus and help with the Garden for Good program at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility. Paulson said volunteers provide weekly gardening instruction at the correctional facility from February through October.
LINK: HCF's "Garden for Good" grows produce, opportunity and support
Garden for Good participants typically donate between 25,000 and 30,000 pounds of produce annually to area organizations. Produce sales also help support the garden and generate nearly $5,000 in annual donations to community organizations.
Paulson said fall is a good time for lawn renovation and planting trees and shrubs. She recommends waiting until temperatures cool before fertilizing, dethatching or overseeding cool-season lawns. Trees generally should be pruned after they become dormant.
Applications and additional information are available at reno.k-state.edu. The Reno County Extension Office can also be reached at 620-662-2371.