The Louisiana Master Gardener Program is a service and educational activity offered by the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service. The program is designed to recruit and train volunteers to help meet the educational needs of home gardeners while providing an enjoyable and worthwhile service experience for volunteers.

Experienced and beginning gardeners seeking up-to-date horticultural information can advance their gardening expertise and gain self-satisfaction through volunteer efforts. The volunteer aspect of the Master Gardener program allows individuals to dedicate their time and talents to enhancing the quality of life for the citizens in their community by using the science and art of horticulture. It allows individuals to put into practice what they know and learn.

Master Gardeners should be interested in horticulture, willing to help people, outgoing, flexible and dependable. The instructors are professional horticulture educators who will cover topics including soils, trees, pests, etc. The first Master Gardener class will begin Tuesday, August 19, in Lincoln Parish from 1-4:30pm and continue every Tuesday for 12 weeks, ending on October 28.

Seating is limited, so early application is encouraged. The course fee is $135 before July 31, and $160 after July 31, which covers the cost of the manual, speakers, and Master Gardener name badge. Registration ends July 31, 2023. The Master Gardener program is open to all people.

To register for the Master Gardener class, email Kyleigh Bass-LSU AgCenter Horticulture Agent at KyleighBass@agcenter.lsu.edu or come by the Lincoln Parish AgCenter Extension Office (307 N. Homer, Ruston, located on the 3rd floor) to fill out the application and bring a check. Make check payable to the “North Central Master Gardeners.” For questions, call 318-251-5134.