By Blake Jackson
Registration is open for the University of Missouri (MU) Extension Master Gardener fall 2026 training course in southwestern Missouri. The program will run from Aug. 6, 2026, through Oct. 15, 2026, with classes held Thursdays from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Jasper County Courthouse in Carthage. An informational session is set for July 2, 2026, and the registration deadline is Aug. 6,2026.
The course is designed to provide in-depth horticultural education, according to MU Extension Master Gardener state coordinator Debi Kelly. Participants will take part in presentations and weekly discussions to build a strong foundation in plant science and gardening practices.
Instruction will be led by MU Extension horticulture specialists Matthew Huchteman and Kelly McGowan, along with sessions taught by MU Extension agronomist Micah Doubledee and Jack “JJ” Spurlin of Lincoln University.
To earn Extension Master Gardener certification, participants must complete the course and fulfill volunteer requirements. This includes 30 hours of service in the first year and 20 hours annually afterward through MU Extension programs.
The program is designed not only to build gardening skills but also to encourage participants to share their knowledge and support community education. It focuses on training individuals to promote gardening practices and environmental awareness within their communities.
Participants will study a wide range of topics, including plant structure and function, soils and plant nutrition, plant propagation, fruits and vegetables, herbaceous and woody plants, insects, plant diseases, landscape design, lawn care, and safe pesticide use. Local coordinators will help trainees identify volunteer opportunities to meet certification requirements.
Prospective participants are advised to register using the name they want to display on their completion certificate and to include a valid email address. For more information, individuals can contact MU Extension or visit the Extension Master Gardener website.
For more details and registration, visit at https://pears.io/events/mu/7912/.
Photo Credit: pexels-binyaminmellish
Categories: Missouri, Education