GARD 010 - Yukon Master Gardener

Presented in partnership with the Yukon Agriculture Branch.

Yukon Master Gardener is a standardized course used throughout North America that focuses on building gardening expertise. The Yukon course provides northern examples with a focus on management that is effective for cold climates.

A series of instructors deliver the course, providing a broad background in plant botany, physiology, taxonomy, soils, compost, outdoor gardening, greenhouse management, lawn care, houseplants, pests and pest control, medicinal plants, woody perennials and ornamental horticulture.

Who should enroll

The Yukon Master Gardener course is ideal for those:

  • Looking to gain comprehensive knowledge and skills in gardening in northern climates,.
  • People who already garden and want to deepen their understanding of plant care, soil management, and pest control.
  • Interested in enhancing their outdoor spaces with improved lawn care, vegetable gardens, and ornamental plants.
  • Individuals interested in greenhouse management and growing plants in northern climates.
  • With a passionate interest in sustainable gardening practices, composting, and integrated pest management.
  • Considering a career in horticulture, landscaping, or related fields and seeking foundational knowledge and skills.
Course modules

Introduction & Climate Considerations

  • Understand the fundamentals of plant botany and physiology.

  • Learn about different climate zones and their impact on gardening.

Integrated Pest Management:

  • Develop strategies for identifying and managing garden pests.

  • Implement eco-friendly pest control methods to minimize harm to plants and the environment.

Modifying Soils and Understanding Soil Fertility:

  • Gain knowledge of soil types, soil structure, and basic soil management techniques.
  • Explore methods for soil improvement and fertility management.

  • Understand soil testing, nutrient requirements, and amendment practices.

Outdoor Vegetable Gardens:

  • Plan and manage vegetable gardens.

  • Learn about soil preparation, planting schedules, and crop rotation.

Greenhouse Design for Northern Climates:

  • Design and manage greenhouses suited to cold climates.

  • Learn about temperature control, ventilation, and plant care in greenhouse settings.

Growing Undercover:

  • Explore techniques for growing plants in covered environments like cold frames and tunnels.

  • Understand how to extend the growing season and protect plants from harsh weather conditions.

Woody Perennials & Small Fruit:

  • Study the care and cultivation of woody perennials and small fruit plants.

  • Learn about pruning, harvesting, and pest management for these plants.

Flowering Plants including Bulbs, Annuals, Perennials, and Houseplants:

  • Identify and care for a variety of flowering plants.

  • Understand the growth cycles, planting requirements, and maintenance of bulbs, annuals, and perennials.

Botany/Plant Classification (Lab):

  • Gain hands-on experience in plant classification and identification.

  • Understand botanical terminology and plant anatomy through lab work.

Compost (Lab):

  • Learn the process of composting organic materials.

  • Understand how to create and maintain compost bins and use compost in gardening.

Lawns & Groundcover:

  • Learn about different types of grass and groundcover plants.
  • Master techniques for establishing and maintaining healthy lawns and groundcover areas.

 

 

Learning outcomes

By completing the Yukon Master Gardener course, participants will acquire a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge in gardening and horticulture, tailored to the specific conditions of the Yukon. They will be equipped to manage a variety of gardening tasks, from soil and pest management to plant care and greenhouse operation, and apply sustainable practices in their gardening activities.

Upon completion of the course, participants will have the opportunity to obtain Yukon Master Gardener certification from the Yukon Agriculture Branch by challenging a 3-hour, open book examination.

Duration and format

Duration       40 hours, typically spanning 4 weeks. A blend of evening and weekend sessions.

Format:        In-person, synchronous. A blend of theoretical instruction and hands-on lab sessions.

GARD 010
This course has no upcoming sessions scheduled