Re: Master Gardeners

**"* P* <R*@Comcast.net>**

I have to chime in to totally agree with Monica when she said.....

> Master gardeners do not have horticulture degrees (well, some of us might, 
> but not as part of the master gardener program), nor do we present 
> ourselves as knowing everything there is to know about gardening.
>
> The master gardener program does provide some basic training, but it is 
> primarily a VOLUNTEER program. You need to recertify every year to 
> maintain active status>

I admit to being a Master Gardener and a writer. I have learned so much in 
the MG program. I am one of the people "manning" the booths and trying to 
answer the public's questions along with other activities to educate the 
consumer. Some of the questions are specifically designed to "stump the 
Master Gardener". (Say this with a haughty snarl.) If I don't know...I 
research until I do. Not everyone does this. Master Gardeners vary in the 
knowledge and skills and time to do research just as writers do. When we get 
into pet peeves of writing I invariably learn something new...like...house 
plant versus houseplant...

So, I am with Monica on this. It is a volunteer program. It is a service to 
the community. Sometimes we are more approachable than other options for the 
general public. I like to think so. The classes that are offered differ by 
county, region and state as do the rules of the program certification. So 
knowledge, dedication and passion will vary by person.

I recommend anyone wondering what is taught at their local MG classes to ask 
sit in on one or two. (I know current MGs can monitor in our county) I'll 
just bet you might pick up something...(:>)

Sandie Parrott
Proud Advanced Master Gardener (Advanced status given because of the 
gymongous hours of community service)
Writer-Photographer and Master Gardener Society Garden Trip Leader 

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