Special to IFN

If you like gardening and volunteering in the community, consider becoming an Extension Master Gardener volunteer. The 2026 class begins in February with a Beginning Gardening Series followed by comprehensive horticulture classes covering botany, soils, entomology, pesticide safety and diagnosing plant problems. Training runs through the end of May. There will not be another class until February 2028.

Attend one of two interest meetings to learn more about the program, ask questions, and to sign up. Sessions will be in Statesville on Wednesday, October 15, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the Iredell County Center, 444 Bristol Drive, and in Mooresville on Wednesday, October 29, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the Mooresville Public Library, 304 S. Main Street.

If you are interested and unable to attend one of these sessions, contact Melinda Roberts, 704-873-0507, melinda_roberts@ncsu.edu.

Applications will be accepted December 1-31. Brief meetups will occur after applications are received.

Classes meet every Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m. at the N.C. Cooperative Extension Iredell County Center. Times and training sites may vary, and some local travel may be required. Curriculum
and training fees are $150, which includes the new N.C. Extension Gardener Handbook. Fees
are non-refundable.