University of Missouri Extension will offer Master Gardener training in the fall of 2009 at the Memorial Auditorium in Union. The course will be limited to 24 participants.
Master Gardener training involves 12 three-hour training sessions covering topics including soils, plant propagation, lawns, perennials, vegetables, fruits, ornamentals, pruning, landscaping and plant health care.  Plans are to meet weekly on Mondays, beginning Sept. 14 and running through Nov. 30.
An orientation session will be held Mon., Aug. 31.  This training is provided by University of Missouri Extension state and regional specialists, Master Gardeners and professionals in the horticulture field.
Upon completion of the training program, master gardeners are asked to volunteer 30 hours to educate people in their communities about horticultural topics.
Those who participate in the Master Gardener program will receive Grounds for Gardening, which is a series of horticultural guidesheets, and a Master Gardener manual. Cost of the training is $135.
To learn more about the Master Gardener program or to sign up, call the Franklin County University of Missouri Extension Center at (636) 583-5141.