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Enthusiastic gardeners from across the region will flock to Oglebay Park next month to grow their planting knowledge - and maybe sow a few ideas themselves.
The 2022 West Virginia Univesity Extension Service's Master Gardener Association Annual Conference is set for April 8-10 at Wilson Lodge. The conference typically takes place each spring, but was canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID.
Programs are geared toward master gardeners, but all are invited to attend, according to Karen Cox, extension agent for the WVU Extension.
Those registering for the conference before March 14 will pay $145 to attend, with the cost jumping $35 to $180 after that date.
The last day to register is March 25, and registration forms can be accessed at https://extension.wvu.edu/conferences/master-gardener-conference.
The conference begins at 1:30 p.m. Friday, April 8 with a roundtable discussion on integrated pest management.
Saturday sessions include workshops on growing berries, native nectar source for honeybees, tree planting, and using irises in the landscape, and more discussion about pesticides. There are also individual workshops on preserving heirloom plans, and utilizing heirloom plants.
Sunday workshops seek to answer questions about the effect of climate change on petunia flower development, and "What is making that sound, and is it venomous?"
Cox said planners aren't certain how many will attend.
"It's hard to say. We could have a full house or not many," she said. "To be safe, we're expecting about 150.
"But if people are super eager to get out, there could be 300."
While most attending likely will be master gardeners, it isn't necessary, Cox explained.
"It's for people who have a passion for gardening and sharing information with others," she said.
"There's a lot of community in the association, and a lot of good friendships. It's an opportunity to learn and to share your ideas with people who love plants."
The master gardeners program offered through the WVU Extension seeks to help residents better understand horticultural and environmental issues through community engagement in gardening and beautification projects at schools, parks, public institutions, community organizations, and locations throughout the state.
A WVU Extension master gardener must complete 20 volunteer hours, and 10 additional hours of horticulture training.
There is training locally for those interested in becoming a master gardener, Cox said. Those wanting to join the program should contact the WVU Extension at 304-234-3673.