Learn about Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Training

Posted on May 17, 2018 by
Alyssa demonstrates propagating techniques to a training class.

Alyssa demonstrates propagating techniques to a training class.

Tuesday, May 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Fairlington Community Center
3308 S. Stafford St., Arlington, 22206

Have you always wanted to be an Extension Master Gardener? Come and find out what it means to be an Extension Master Gardener volunteer, what the Volunteer Training program includes, and about our mission to share urban agriculture and sustainable landscaping best management practices with our community. This fall’s class will be offered in the evening and on weekends. For more detailed information, check out Become a Master Gardener in 2018.

Free. Questions? Call 703-228-6414 or email mgarlalex@gmail.com.

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Extension Master Gardener National Report

Posted on May 20, 2018 by

Ever wonder about the impact of the Master Gardeners? This recently completed infographic was just released by the National Extension Master Gardener Committee, and it shows the impact of the EMG program nationwide!

"EXTENSION MASTER GARDENER NATIONAL REPORT - 2016 The information provided was compiled by the Extension Master Gardener (EMG) National Committee in 2017. The numbers reflect 2016 data. 43 of 49 states that currently have Extension Master Gardener programs reported information about program outcomes. VALUE OF VOLUNTEER HOURS: $140,712,882 The national estimated average of volunteer time is $24.14/hour. TRAINING HOURS: 704,509 On average, EMGs have over 40 hours of training for ceritification CONTINUING EDUCATION HOURS: 1,018,092 EMGs often continue their education. YEARLY MEDIA REACH: 8,118,512 Includes state and county websites, radio, tv, newspaper, Extension publications, and social media. VOLUNTEER HOURS: 5,829,034 Active certified EMG volunteers average 60 hours per year. EXTENSION MASTER GARDENERS: 90,871 One of the largest volunteer organizations in the country NEWLY TRAINED EMGs: 15,002 On average, each state trains nearly 400 EMGs every year. DIRECT CONTACTS: 5,552,253 Clientele served through helplines, presentations,farmers markets, plant clinics, county fairs, and more. 43 STATES REPORTING: Alabama Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Montana Nebraska New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming "

The information provided was compiled by the Extension Master Gardener (EMG) National Committee in 2017. The numbers reflect 2016 data. 43 of 49 states that currently have Extension Master Gardener programs reported information about program outcomes.

Learn more about National Extension Master Gardener programs!

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PERENNIALS: Geranium maculatum (Wild Geranium)

Posted on May 18, 2018 by
Geranium maculatum, Wild or Spotted Geranium - May bloom

Geranium maculatum, Wild or Spotted Geranium – May bloom
Photo © 2015 Elaine Mills

Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic

This lovely and adaptable native wildflower grows in deciduous woods and dappled meadows throughout the eastern half of North America.  Its alternative common name, Cranesbill, refers to its distinctive seed capsule, which resembles the bill of a crane.

Learn more . . .

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Five Things You Didn’t Know About . . . The History of Master Gardeners

Posted on May 15, 2018 by

Compiled by Marsha Mercer, Certified Master Gardener

If you are thinking about joining the 2018 class of Master Gardeners, you may enjoy learning more about our history!

1) In 1971, before Master Gardeners were even a gleam in anyone’s eye, Washington State University assigned two extension agents to the Seattle and Tacoma metro areas. Their job: to help the public with their urban and commercial horticulture questions. And did they get questions! The overworked agents put on radio and TV gardening Screen Shot 2015-11-02 at 6.24.23 AMshows, but that only drew more people to the Extension offices. The agents brainstormed how to handle the crowds. How about recruiting and training volunteers to help backyard gardeners? Continue reading →

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June 2018 Public Education Events

Posted on May 13, 2018 by

MGNV LogoThe following events are scheduled by VCE Master Gardeners in Arlington and Alexandria in June 2018

Classes |  Wednesday Library Garden Talks | Plant Clinics

Classes

Friday, June 1, 6:00–7:30 p.m., OR Saturday, June 2, 10–11:30 a.m.
Class meets outside, in front of
2416 Ridge Road Drive, Alexandria 22302

Summertime Pruning of Woody Shrubs

Hugh Robinson and Mary Frase pruning the Shade Garden’s redbud tree.

Come for hands-on training from Extension Master Gardeners on the how, when, and why of summer pruning of hedges, multi-stem shrubs, small trees, and non-woody perennials. The results will be healthier and bushier growth, and more attractive landscaping. Bring your own tools, and remember to dress for the weather! Entire class is held outdoors.

Free. Advance registration requested at mgnv.org.
Questions? Call 703-228-6414 or email mgarlalex@gmail.com. Continue reading →

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TREE: Cornus alternifolia (Pagoda Dogwood)

Posted on May 11, 2018 by
Cornus alternifolia Leaves

Cornus alternifolia Leaves
Photo © 2017 Elaine Mills

Tried and True Native Plants of the Mid-Atlantic

Layers of horizontal branches tapering in size toward the top give this highly prized ornamental tree its common name.  This native of the understory of woods in the eastern United States is a favorite tree of ecologist and entomologist Doug Tallamy because of its value to pollinators and birds.

Learn more . . .

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