The Challenge:

McCreary County faces a significant demand for horticultural assistance due to its sizable community of backyard gardeners and horticulture enthusiasts. The surge in participants joining the Grow Appalachia program, many of whom are newcomers seeking basic gardening guidance, underscores this growing need.

Educational Initiative:

In January 2023, McCreary County Extension launched its inaugural Master Gardener certification program, attracting 9 participants. The comprehensive classes covered topics such as Botany, Entomology, Plant Pathology, Pesticide Safety, Water Quality, Soils/Fertility, Composting, Plant Propagation, Turf Management, Growing Tree Fruits, Annuals and Perennials, Woody Ornamentals, and Vegetable Gardening 101. Of the participants, 8 successfully completed the educational requirements, 40 volunteer hours, and the final exam.

Target Audience:

The program caters to intermediate to advanced horticulturalists.

Collaboration with Partners:

The initiative involved collaboration with UK Cooperative Extension, McCreary County Farmers Market, Next Chapter LLC., McCreary County School System, McCreary County 4-H, and local farmers.

Program Impact:

The 8 certified Master Gardeners contributed a total of 320 volunteer hours to McCreary County Cooperative Extension. Their projects encompassed assisting clients and local businesses with landscape challenges, establishing gardens in urban areas for horticulture therapy, collaborating with youth on school and community gardens, participating in beautification projects, and supporting novice gardening programs.