Meet the Middlesex County Master Gardeners

Middlesex County’s Office of Extension Services held a graduation ceremony for its most recent class of 36 Master Gardener graduates on Feb. 16.

“Since 1984, nearly 8,000 residents statewide have been trained through the Master Gardener program,” said Middlesex County Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios. “Middlesex County’s program is among the most active in the state, and we congratulate our graduates and newest members.”

Master Gardeners are community volunteers trained in Earth-friendly gardening and environmental principles. The training portion of the Master Gardener program lasts for one year. The program begins in September with weekly classes from fall to spring, followed by hands-on activities in the vegetable and herb gardens during the growing season. Middlesex County has a day program on Friday mornings and an evening program on Thursdays.

“Our Master Gardeners help us protect the beauty and environmental health of Middlesex County,” said Middlesex County Freeholder Kenneth Armwood, chair of the County’s Business Development and Education Commission. “We thank our volunteers for sharing their education and knowledge with our residents.”

For more information about the Master Gardeners or any other Cooperative Extension program, call 732-398-5260.

If you have questions on backyard environmental issues, Middlesex County’s Extension Office can assist you with its free Master Gardener Helpline. Residents can call 732-398-5220 with their questions on plants, bugs, home conservation practices and other gardening-based questions. Trained Master Gardeners are available from 9 a.m. until noon Mondays through Fridays, or you can leave a detailed message, and volunteers will get back to you. You may also e-mail your questions and concerns tomastergardeners@co.middlesex.nj.us.