In El Paso County, a group of 75 Colorado Master Gardeners (CMGs) volunteer in the community, sharing research-based gardening education.

These volunteers can be found at our gardening help desk, where residents can ask questions via email, phone or in person and bring in plants, insects, photos and more for diagnostic inquiries. You also can find these volunteers at garden centers and events throughout the gardening season; they are eager to support you as you work through gardening challenges. Some might serve as consultants for school gardens, creating a gardening passion among children.

Volunteers include speakers and writers, and some serve in supportive capacities behind the scenes. CMGs are frequently in our native plant demonstration garden (17 N. Spruce St). If you are a regular reader of this column, you might be interested in joining this community of gardening educators who have a passion for helping their community. We are accepting applications for the Colorado Master Gardener program. The application period closes Aug. 31.

People considering applying for the program often express that they feel they might not be enough of a gardening expert. Don’t let that feeling of inadequacy keep you from applying.

Applicants who are accepted into the program spend their first year as an “apprentice.” During this period, volunteers complete a rigorous program called Green School that is equivalent to a four-credit college course in garden science. After successfully completing the Green School final exam, apprentices receive mentorship and training to gain confidence in assisting with a wide variety of home gardening inquiries. Even after the apprenticeship, being part of the extension system gives you access to a lot of expert information through extension agents and continuing education opportunities. No one is expected to know everything!

Volunteers are lifelong learners who are eager to cultivate their gardening knowledge in the context of community.

If this sounds like you, or if you would like more information about becoming a Colorado Master Gardener, visit https://elpaso.extension.colostate.edu/colorado-master-gardener/. To start the application process visit https://cmg.extension.colostate.edu/about/become-a-colorado-master-gardener-2/.

Submit gardening questions to csumg2@elpasoco.com or call 719-520-7684. The in-person help desk is open 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at 17 N. Spruce St. Find us on Facebook at Colorado Master Gardeners – El Paso County.