Success Story Improving Master Gardeners Confidence in Plant Problem Identification through Continuing Education.



Improving Master Gardeners Confidence in Plant Problem Identification through Continuing Education.

Author: Jamie Dockery

Planning Unit: Fayette County CES

Major Program: Master Gardener

Plan of Work: Leadership Development

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

The Master Gardener program is a CAFE featured program and a major initiative for participating counties. Many Master Gardener volunteers assist county agents by accepting samples, completing homeowner site visits, fielding phone calls from homeowners, and/or providing general diagnostic assistance. As diagnosis of plant problems is a challenging and often intimidating process, many volunteers are timid to participate in these programs. In order to provide Master Gardeners with additional education and experience with plant disease diagnosis, the Advanced Plant Disease Diagnosis Master Gardener Program was developed. 

This 3 hour program consists of a 45 minute presentation that reviews the basic pathogen groups and introduces the diagnostic process. The remaining portion of the program requires participants to work through a series of case studies to determine the potential causes of the plant problems. A survey of participants showed an increase in understanding of plant pathogen groups (81%) and diagnosis (58%). Individuals that participated in the program indicated an increased level of confidence in the areas of determining information needed from clients (69%), making specific photo and sample requests (37%), establishing next steps in determining possible causes (64%), and working through the diagnostic process (71%). All attendees indicated that they wanted to learn more on the topic. Several individuals commented that the program increased their confidence in diagnostics. Through this train-the-trainer program, Master Gardeners gain skills and knowledge that can be used to educate the numerous individuals they have contact with. 






Stories by Jamie Dockery


Buzzing about Pollinators

about 1 years ago by Jamie Dockery

As climate change impacts increase many pollinator populations have been facing significant declines... Read More


Knowledge Eases Transition

about 1 years ago by Jamie Dockery

Fayette County is one of Kentuckys most populus cities. The demand for accurate, reliable gardening ... Read More


Stories by Fayette County CES


UK staff appreciation

UK staff appreciation

about 1 years ago by Maranda Brooks

FCS Had the distinct pleasure of being invited to set up a table at the UK staff Appreciation. Maran... Read More


4-H Summit

4-H Summit

about 1 years ago by Lucas Powell

According to research, middle school is a time where young people find their place in this world, th... Read More