WSU Clallam County Extension will be offering a Master Gardener training class on Thursdays from Feb. 21-May 2.

The 11-week course is held from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on the following dates: Feb. 21, Feb. 28, March 7, March 14, March 21, March 28, April 4, April 11, April 18, April 25 and May. 2.

The course format combines an online course with classroom instruction and field trips around the North Olympic Peninsula. Training topics include basic botany, plant identification of local and other common plants, soils, fertilizers, composting, plant pests and diseases, pest control methods, pruning, crop rotation, plant propagation, garden planning, native landscaping, small fruits and berries, weed control, vegetables, water quality and environmentally-friendly yard management.

The class fee is $250 and includes all training materials. Class organizers have a limited numbers of scholarships available.

Once community members have completed the training, they will be a Master Gardener Intern. Interns are asked to contribute 100 hours of volunteer service over a period of two years, at least 50 hours during the first year. Volunteer activities include participating in plant clinics, working at demonstration gardens, offering public education projects and other activities.

Upon completion of the 100 hours, they will be considered a veteran Master Gardener.

Those interested are asked to visit extension.wsu.edu/clallam/mg/training to learn more and complete an application ASAP, or reach out to the program coordinator.