The Master Gardener Association of Blanco County presents a 2009 Training Class for the community. The classes begin Tuesday January 13th from 1:00 till 5:00pm at the new Johnson City Library off of Spur 356 at the entrance to the LBJ High School. Registration forms are available at the AgriLife Extension Service in Johnson City or call 830-868-7167. To become a certified MG a trainee must complete 50 hours of class time and 50 hours of volunteer work.

Presenters for the 50 hours of class time include a plant pathologist, an entomologist, three authors of books on trees, grasses and herbs, county extension agents with expertise on water issues and fruit trees and grapes as well as specialists on plant propagation, EarthKind roses and vegetable gardens. A copy of the class schedule is available at the extension office. The majority of the classes will be on Tuesdays with a few on Thursdays.

Some of the volunteer projects have included: the support of the Bindseil Park, landscaping at Gem of the Hills, speaker at the Lavender festival with others helping with tours, horticultural workshops and seminars, student programs, demonstration garden of native grasses, staffing extension office once a week to help with gardening questions, helping with the County 5th Grade Farm Safety Day and taking on projects to assist our County Agent, Todd Swift. Also, Master Gardeners continue their education by attending seminars such as those provided by Lady Bird Wildflower Center and State Conventions.

Now is the time to become a Master Gardener of Blanco County. Return registration forms to PO Box 94 in Johnson City or stop by the Extension office. Call 830-868-7167 for more information and a registration form. The first class will be held at the new Johnson City Library on Spur 356.