Organic Master Gardener Certification?

Denise Webre · Guest

:?: Does anyone know if there will ever be a master gardener program that teaches organic principles? Currently, the master gardener program uses the "scientifically proven methods" to recommend to people. Some of the county agents here in Texas aren't as strict as others about this, but a friend of mine went to an informational MG meeting because she was interested in the program and she was told that if she did not recommend the scientifically proven methods as recommended by TAMU which are not always organic, then the master gardener program may not be for her. I do realize this program is very educational and most MG's will use organic methods in their own gardens, but I feel that it is not right to recommend the use of synthetic chemicals when many organic methods will work to solve the problem. Please don't get me wrong. I am not downgrading the MG program. I know a lot of master gardeners and really respect what they do as far as talking to clubs/groups about many gardening topics and the fact that they do a lot of volunteer work around the area. They are very knowledgeable. I would like to know if there are any organic programs out there.

ZIPPER

Denise,

You might try www.gardeningvolunteersofsotx.org or try a Google for Gardening Volunteers of South Texas.

They are quite active here in SA Tx.

:D Oh, by the way, introduce yourself at the "Meet and Greet" topic area.

Nadine · Posted: Sun Jun 29, 2003 12:25 pm Post subject:

Denise, Howard has been wanting to start one for some time now. We are beginning the process of getting one together. If you would, send me your email address via private message and I can keep you up to date.
Anyone else out there interested, let me know. :D

Leslie Finical Halleck · Guest

Nadine,
Does this mean you're officially volunteering to be our coordinator?!! Yes, we are in the process, and the program will be organized under TORC, Texas Organic Research Center. We will be announcing more information in the near future.

CaptainCompostAL · Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2003 12:34 pm Post subject:

I have been teaching composting and tea brewing classes for several Master Gardener clubs across north central Alabama now for two years. Due to popularity, I think I'm going to be voted in as a honorary Master Gardener for the Jefferson County area (Birmingham).

My understanding is that a vote from leadership is all it takes to get in. I'll be one of the few 100% organic Master gardeners in Alabama that is also an instructor and author.

Nadine · Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2003 12:49 pm Post subject:

Wonderful! Congratulations! :D

cynthiac · Guest Joined: 18 Jul 2003 Posts: 59 Location: DFW

My mother took the Master Gardening program in Memphis, TN about 3-4 years ago. She still participates in the program now. She really enjoyed it and learned a lot. However she also does a lot of volunteer work on the side and she is often telling me something else she learned, that she didn't learn in the program.
Esp. since she is now ENTIRELY devoted to ORGANIC gardening. Though I'll admit she broke that rule when it came to killing of some fire ants last year. :lol: I can't blame her though, fire ants can make anybody lose it. :evil:
:lol:

Gar · Guest Joined: 08 Mar 2003 Posts: 533 Location: Lavon,Texas

Captain, You mentioned, in your post, that you are an author as well. Have you written any books that we can purchase to learn more about composting and compost teas? If so, please let us know where can buy them.

Thanks

CaptainCompostAL · Posted: Mon Jul 21, 2003 1:01 pm Post subject:

So far I have only authored articles on the FAQ page of GardenWeb.com.
Soon I hope to sell a series of videos and books on my experiences on my personal website.

Gar · Guest Joined: 08 Mar 2003 Posts: 533 Location: Lavon,Texas

Thanks Captain, Please let us know when the videos and books are available for purchase. When I get out to Alabama again, I would like to visit you and see your operation.