Purdue Extension Master Gardeners (EMG) receive training in horticulture to equip them to volunteer to assist Purdue Extension with home horticulture education in local communities. The requirements for Purdue EMG certification include acceptance into the training through an application and screening process, payment of registration fee, completion of the EMG Basic Training which includes passing the open-book final exam with a score of 70% or higher, and contributing at least 40 hours of volunteer service approved by the local EMG County Coordinator within two years. Purdue Extension Master Gardeners are also required to complete at least 12 volunteer and 6 continuing education hours every year in order to stay active.
During the course, participants will learn about plant diseases, pesticide safety, invasive species, soils, weed identification, insect identification, fruit gardening, lawn care, vegetable production, and most more. Presenters include Purdue Extension Educators and Specialist from throughout Indiana.
We will be offering the Purdue Extension Master Gardener Basic Training in Putnam County from August 14 to November 30, 2023 (no class September 4, 2023). The course will be held on Mondays, from 1:00-4:00 pm at the Purdue Extension – Putnam County Office (physical address: 152 E. Columbia St., Greencastle, IN).
Application and Registration Information
Please read the Purdue Extension Master Gardener Program Policy Guide and complete, sign, and return the Purdue Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Application and Agreement (Form EMG-1) to the Putnam County Extension Office. All applicants are also required to consent to national and state sex and violent offender registry checks and provide evidence of a government issued photo ID to your local EMG County Coordinator or designated Purdue Extension staff. You may download the policy guide here or contact Jenna Nees at smith535@purdue.edu or 765-653-8411 to receive a copy.
Please note that during the Putnam County 4-H Fair (July 21st – 28th), no one will be at the Purdue Extension Office. You can find Jenna Nees inside Harris Hall at the Putnam County 4-H Fair. She will gladly discuss the Purdue Extension Master Gardener course with you or help you complete the application process there.
Form EMG-1 & Government Issued Photo ID Due by August 2, 2023.
Upon confirmation of acceptance of your application and providing evidence of government issued photo ID, an online registration link will be sent to you. The registration options are listed below:
Purdue is committed to making all programs accessible to participants. If you require auxiliary aids or services, or if you have other program-related concerns, please contact Jenna Nees at smith535@purdue.edu or 765-653-8411 at least 2 weeks prior to the program.