MSU Extension level 1 Master Gardener classes will take place in Fort Benton or Big Sandy in February pending pre-registration numbers. Now is your chance to participate in an excellent educational opportunity. If ten people pre-register, we will have the class, which traditionally begins in late February. Please contact the MSU Chouteau County Extension office at 622-3751 to pre-register.

The Level 1 Master Gardener course requires 16 hours of class time, and is taught by local Extension agents, plant professionals, and Master Gardener volunteers. For a $50.00 fee, participants will receive the Montana Master Gardener Handbook and other informative handouts pertaining to the class. Level 1 Master Gardener participants will learn about:

• Introduction to Montana State University Extension and the Master Gardener program

• Soils and fertility (N-P-K-Fe)

• Plant growth and development

• Vegetable gardening

• Growing small fruit

• Growing and caring for flowers

• Trees, shrubs, vines and pruning

• Lawns and irrigation

• Composting

• Introduction to Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Participants do not have to become certified to take the class. To become level 1 certified, participants must complete the Level 1 Master Gardener course, pass an open-book exam and fulfill volunteer commitment of a minimum of 20 hours. Please contact MSU Extension Chouteau County at 622-3751 to pre-register.