Roanoke VCE Master Gardeners
What is a Master Gardener?
A Master Gardener (MG) is an individual who acts on behalf of Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) as a volunteer educator within his/her community after receiving specialized training in environmental horticulture. MGs serve as partners with VCE to inform and work with communities, leaders, industry, and individuals in protecting and enhancing the environment.
What do MGs do?
Originally, VCE MGs were recruited to meet the community need for answering consumer horticulture questions. MGs still do that and so much more! Here are some of the things MGs do in Roanoke:
- Staff the Help Desk at the VCE office to answer questions and diagnose plant problems
- Conduct workshops to teach people about gardening in ways that enhance and protect our environment, water quality, and our community
- Teach youth how to garden by conducting 4-H garden projects, teaching teachers how to use horticulture in the classroom, and mentoring gardeners who work with youth in community settings
- Teach homeowners how to select and care for landscape plants
- Speak to community groups on gardening topics, such as lawns, shrubs, water quality, and vegetable gardening
Some jobs work directly with the public. Other jobs are “behind the scene” and provide much-needed support and organization to VCE educational events. Work times are available during the day, evening, and sometimes on the weekend. Click here to see pictures from specific projects. MGs volunteer hundreds of hours each year in support of VCE projects.
Who are Roanoke’s VCE MGs?
Roanoke VCE MGs are a diverse group of people. They share an interest in gardening, of course, but that interest can express itself in many different ways!
Among these volunteers are teachers, retirees, librarians, artists, and landscapers. Some are Roanokers; others live in surrounding areas. Some are native to Virginia, while others come from foreign countries. Many of the MGs like to “get their hands dirty,” while others are garden specialists. Most importantly, MGs are people just like you who come together to share that knowledge with the citizens of Roanoke and surrounding areas.
How do I become a VCE MG?
First, complete the initial training through the VCE-Roanoke Office. VCE MGs participate in at least 50 hours of classroom training on topics such as basic botany, soils, vegetables, trees, shrubs, and more. Second, complete the internship phase. Volunteer 50 hours in approved VCE MG projects. Upon completion of training and internship time, graduate with the title of VCE MG. To retain the title year after year, simply volunteer 20 hours per year in approved VCE MG projects, and complete 8 or more hours of continuing education.
Fall 2011 Training
Tuesdays and Thursdays
10 am—1 pm
September 6—November 10, 2011
To apply, print an application and and mail back to the VCE-Roanoke office, 3738 Brambleton Ave SW, Roanoke VA 24018.
Deadline for applications: August 1, 2011
Master Gardener Help Desk
The Master Gardener volunteers staff a walk-in diagnostic clinic and horticulture hotline for your lawn and gardening needs. We are open Mon-Fri from 8:30 am-4:30 pm. Call the Help Desk at 540/776-7178 for a horticulture dialogue, or Ask an Expert below some simple questions which do not require diagnostic dialogue. Ask an Expert