Registration opens for Fairbanks master gardener session

September 20, 2018

Marmian Grimes

Registration is open for a master gardener training that begins Oct. 9 in Fairbanks.

The training provides a broad horticultural background for gardeners who want to improve their knowledge and skills. Participants also commit to volunteer 40 hours of community service involving horticulture.

Julie Riley, a horticulture agent for the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service, will teach the session from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays through Dec. 6. The training will include hands-on training, guest instructors and field trips. Classes will meet in Room 108 of the University Park Building at 1000 University Ave.

Topics include botany, soils, vegetable and fruit production, organic techniques, integrated pest management, greenhouse construction and heating, lawns, houseplants, trees, shrubs, flowers and invasive plants.

One year of gardening experience is a prerequisite but those who are familiar with Alaska growing conditions may contact the instructor. The registration deadline is Oct. 5. Registration, class information and the required master gardener volunteer application are available at http://bit.ly/mgfairbanks.

The $300 fee includes materials and a copy of Extension’s gardening handbook. A limited number of tuition waivers are available for those with financial need. For more information, contact Riley at jariley@alaska.edu or Ronda Boswell at 907-474-1530 or rlboswell@alaska.edu.