The Master Gardener Program is offered by the University of Tennessee Extension. The purpose of the Master Gardener program is to train people as horticultural-educated volunteers. These volunteers work in partnership with their counties to expand the educational outreach, providing home ga​rdeners with researched-based information. Each volunteer has been trained with 40 hours of horticultural education, and keeps updated with continuing education events.

The Northeast Master Gardener Association (NETMGA) membership includes volunteers from Hawkins, Sullivan, Washington, Carter, Johnson, and Unicoi Counties. Their many activities include information booths at various home and farm shows, answering Ask-a-Master Gardener questions, teaching classes in the community, and organizing new Master Gardener classes. Their presence can be seen in many local historic site gardens, demonstration gardens and community vegetable gardens.

COVID 19 GUIDELINES 

Since the Master Gardeners are affiliated with the University of Tennessee, we are required to follow their guidelines regarding COVID 19 restrictions.

The UT System encourages employees and all members of the university community to get vaccinated and educate themselves about CDC guidance. Consistent with CDC guidance, fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks or social distance on campus, or in university buildings, outside of a healthcare setting.

If an individual chooses not to vaccinate, the CDC encourages that they continue to wear masks and distance for their own protection. Any individual may choose to wear a mask on campus, regardless of their vaccination status.

October Membership Meeting

Monday, October 3

Ron Ramsey Regional Agricultural Center

140 Spurgeon Lane, Blountville TN

6:00 Potluck Meal *

6:30 Program begins

The speaker will be Susie Morrison, your fellow gardener and compadre in all things green and growing.  The topic for discussion will be "The Regenerative and Sustainable Garden." We will discuss ways to take so many of the garden principles we already know (and maybe even a few new ones we don’t know) and consider them through a different looking glass, in a fresh new way. 

*Please arrive early with your potluck dishes. Serving will begin about 6:00.

!!! HELP WANTED !!!

NETMGA Leadership Opportunities

We are looking for a few people to step into positions on the NETMGA Board. Several members are thinking about retiring in January after many years of service. They are willing to mentor anyone who is interested in serving in these vital roles.  We would also like to add assistants for some of our positions. Please contact John Hitchcock, Chairmen of the Nominating Committee, if you would be like more information.  

CEU Opportunities

While social distancing requirements are in effect, Master Gardeners may earn CEU credits by watching or participating in online teaching sessions, particularly those offered through Extension. 

UT-TSU Extension Sullivan County Garden Series

Available in person and by Zoom

Call 423 574 1919 for more information, and to register

Tuesday September 13, 12pm-1 pm

“The Good, The Bad, The Ugly of 2022” presented by Ben Hunter

Tuesday September 27, 12pm-1pm

“Why Trees Die” presented by Chris Ramsey

Tuesday, October 4, 12pm-1pm

"Garden Insects – Integrated Pest Management" presented by Seth Whitehouse

READ ALL ABOUT IT 

8/13  Prepare for an invasion of box elder and lady beetles. See Chris' Column for more details.