Greetings, gardening enthusiasts!
As we settle into the new year, the Horticulture program in Missoula County is buzzing with exciting updates and opportunities to deepen your gardening knowledge and connect with our community. Here’s what’s on the horizon:
New Gardening in Montana
Are you ready to grow your gardening knowledge? In the Spring 2025 Missoula County will launch a pilot project combining Master Gardener education with a new program, "Gardening in Montana". We hope these combined efforts will make gardening education available to anyone with an interest in horticulture topics and for those who wish to certify as a Master Gardener volunteer. Master Gardener courses in Missoula are offered in person each spring and fall. There is also an online option that is offered year round in a self-paced, self-study format offered through MSU Extension.
Gardening in Montana: New Pilot Program by Missoula County Extension starting Feb 5 at 6pm
Missoula County Extension is excited to offer Gardening in Montana, an 11-week program designed to provide the foundational basics for all your gardening needs. Start your journey to growing a bigger, better garden with Gardening in Montana!
This program is OPEN to the public—perfect for anyone interested in gardening at any level. Each class is $20. You also have the option to purchase a comprehensive gardening manual for $50 to guide you through the program. Each week features a new gardening topic, engaging community speakers, and a hands-on activity. Plus, enjoy daytime tours of local partner organizations for added insights. Classes include: Soils, Nutrients and Fertilizer, Plant Growth and Development, Vegetable & Herb Gardening, Growing Small Fruit and Fruit Trees, Composting, Landscape Design, Irrigation, Native plants and pollinator enhancement and more! Choose the classes that are right for you! Whether you're looking to enhance your skills or focus on specific topics, this program has something for everyone.
Interested in Becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer? Classes start February 5th 6-8:30pm and run 12 weeks. See the schedule here
Mark your calendars! The Plant Powered Social Hour now meets monthly on the last Tuesday of the month. This is a fantastic opportunity to mingle with fellow houseplant nerds, exchange tips, and learn from guest speakers in a relaxed, plant-focused atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this gathering is for you. Bring your questions, ideas, and enthusiasm—we’d love to see you there! Sign up for one or all, we have fun and interactive social time on the agenda, expand your plant family, tour local houseplant havens, and grow your knowledge around all things houseplants. Check out our first class Jan 28th 6pm @ 1075 South Ave West!
Special Partnership with Montana Herbal Festival and Wild Wanders
We’re thrilled to announce a new collaboration with the Montana Herbal Festival and Wild Wanders to bring you a three-part series of hands-on herbal classes. These workshops are perfect for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of gardening, wellness, and creativity. Here’s what’s coming up:
- Fire Cider: Make Your Own
Learn how to craft this immune-boosting, tangy tonic using fresh, garden-inspired ingredients. You’ll leave with your own jar and the knowledge to make it at home. - Aphrodisiac Truffles and Tea
Indulge your senses with this playful and delicious class. Discover the properties of various herbs while creating decadent truffles and soothing teas. - Make Your Own Cottonwood Bud Salve
Capture the healing properties of cottonwood buds in this hands-on workshop. You’ll create a nourishing salve perfect for soothing skin and minor aches.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES
Space is limited for these classes, so be sure to reserve your spot early! Stay tuned for registration details and pricing, which will be available soon. Follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.
Looking Ahead
We’re also gearing up for fun partnerships with Garden City Harvest, Big Sky and Hellgate Middle Schools,Master Gardeners, the Western MT Fair and Five Valleys Seed Library!!! More to come! Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise or pick up the basics, there’s something for everyone this season.
Thank you for being a vital part of our gardening community. Together, we’re cultivating more than plants—we’re growing connections and shared knowledge that strengthen our entire community. See you at the next Plant Powered Social Hour or in one of our exciting workshops!
