Although the Alabama Extension’s Master Gardener Course is set for January through March 2018, now is the time to submit applications for the program.

Pike County Extension Coordinator Katie Thomas said seating is limited and places fill rather quickly. The deadline to submitted application is November 13.

The Master Gardener program is a volunteer program that trains individuals in the science and art of gardening, Thomas said. Those who complete the program pass on the information they learned during their training as volunteers who advise and educate the public on gardening and horticulture.

“The Master Gardner program provides more than 50 hours of classroom and hands-on instruction in horticulture and related areas,” Thomas said. “Specialists from Auburn University, local experts and county extension agents provide the instruction.

“In exchange for the 50 hours of classroom instruction class members agree to volunteer 50 hours in support of Cooperative Extension program efforts or educational programs.”

Thomas said the class will meet weekly from 8 a.m. until noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Registration fee is $150 and includes all course materials.

The topics for the Master Gardner Course include soils, nutrition and fertilizers; bedding plants; entomology; plant propagation; plant pathology: home fruits; home vegetable gardening; landscaping; weed identification and control; soils, nutrition and fertilizers; and care and maintenance of landscape plants and interior plants.

For more information or to receive an application, contact the Pike County Extension Office at 334-566-0985.