Crook Farm Heirloom Garden
Penn State Extension McKean County is now accepting applications for our renowned Master Gardener Basic Training program.
Our program offers 40+ hours of enriching educational training covering:
- Botany
- Plant Propagation
- Soil Health and Fertilizer Management
- Composting
- Safe Pest Control
- Entomology
- Plant Diseases
- Vegetable Gardening
- Lawn Care
- Pruning Techniques
- Woody Ornamentals
- Herbaceous Plants
- Native Plants
- Weed Management
- and more!
Program Details:
- Schedule: Weekly classes begin in early October and run through March.
- Format: Thursday evenings, online via Zoom.
- Computer Requirements: Stable internet connection and a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
- Volunteer Commitment: After completing 40 hours of classes, candidates must volunteer 50 hours in the first year. In subsequent years, 20 volunteer hours and 10 hours of continuing education are required to maintain certification.
- Fee: $250, due upon acceptance, covering training materials and related expenses.
Examples of Volunteer Activities:
We are part of the Donald J. Comes Natural Resources Training Center, and maintain raised vegetable beds, a pollinator garden, beehive, and meadow on that property which are all used for educational purposes. We also:
- Collaborate with the McKean County Conservation District on pollinator gardens.
- Participate in various community projects in Port Allegany, Smethport, and Bradford.
- Develop demonstration gardens.
- Staff fun, seasonal events such as Ag Progress Days and the Farm Show.
- Deliver presentations at local gardening clubs, libraries, and community events.
- Respond to homeowner questions on the Garden Hotline.
- Teach Poison Prevention classes in schools.
- And much more!
Our Master Gardener volunteer program supports the outreach mission of Penn State Extension by educating the public on best practices in sustainable horticulture and environmental stewardship.
Ready to become a Master Gardener? Express your interest by completing our online application.
Still have questions? Contact us!
