Are you ready to take your love of gardening to the next level? University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners will be offering a self-paced online training course this fall starting on Monday, Oct. 2. Whether you want to better your gardening knowledge or become an Illinois Extension Master Gardener volunteer, this training is for you. The course is open to the public.

The course will offer in-depth horticulture content including soils and fertilizers, plant disease, entomology, pest management, organic gardening, and more. This course can be completed in 14 weeks and includes training videos, a manual, reading materials, and quizzes. A strong internet connection is recommended.

After training is completed, participants may apply to become an Illinois Extension Master Gardener volunteer. These volunteers participate in community education programs which may include speaking at garden clubs, civic groups, or schools; answering calls or emails at the garden help desks; establishing demonstration gardens that serve as educational tools; and educating citizens on how to establish community gardens.

The course is costs $300 and registration is open through Monday, Sept. 11. For more information, contact Illinois Extension Program Coordinator in your county. Please call or email Cindy Jankiewicz at 815-732-2191, cjankie@illinois.edu in Ogle County; Judy Hodge at 815-544-3710, hodg@illinois.edu in Boone County; or Connie Handel at 815-758-8194, cahandel@illinois.edu in DeKalb County.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact your local county Extension office. Early requests are encouraged so that we may meet your needs.