Let Rutgers Teach You How to Become a Master Gardener

Rutgers - A new season of "Master Gardener" classes will be starting soon at the Middlesex County EARTH Center in Davidson Mill Pond Park, located at 42 Riva Ave., South Brunswick.

The Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County is offering both daytime and evening sessions for this program. Orientation (attendance is optional) will be on Thursday, Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. for the evening class and Friday, Sept. 9 at 9:30 a.m. for the Friday morning class. The program officially starts on Sept. 15 and 16. The class is open to all New Jersey residents.

The Master Gardeners are community volunteers trained in earth-friendly gardening and environmental principles. Lecture classes meet once per week for 3 hours from mid-September through mid-April. These classes will incorporate some outdoor time in a county park.

The hands-on garden classes meet weekly from April through mid-September (every other week in summer). During these sessions, new students will create and care for demonstration vegetable and herb gardens. Topics covered in the program include: sound gardening techniques; composting; creative methods of conserving resources, and horticulture therapy. The program also requires participants to volunteer some hours of service towards Extension projects, activities and events throughout the year.

There is a $425 tuition fee, which covers books and materials. Those interested in joining the program can call the EARTH Center at 732-398-5262 for more information or visitwww.co.middlesex.nj.us and search Master Gardeners.

"Growing your own plants, vegetables and flowers can beautify your home, provide tasty produce and even reduce stress and improve health," said Middlesex County Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios. “To learn the newest techniques and get the best out of your garden, register now for one of these informative sessions.”