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Photo courtesy University of Maine Cooperative Extension. (Caption: Maine Horticulture Apprentices Vanessa Seder (left) and Annika Schmidt (right) at Tidewater Farm.)

UMaine Offers In-Depth Horticulture and Gardening Training in October

Orono, Maine— The University of Maine Cooperative Extension is offering two in-depth horticulture training workshops for Mainers looking to start a career in horticulture or for those wanting to elevate their gardening skills.  

The two programs, “Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training” and “Maine Gardener Training,” will teach foundational knowledge and skills, offer hands-on experience through practical exercises, and provide an opportunity to learn from experienced horticulture industry leaders.

The Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training is a comprehensive curriculum suitable for skilled entry-level positions in the horticulture industry. The program, now open for registration, will be held Tuesdays Oct. 30 to Dec. 17, 2023 and Jan. 8 to March 14, 2024 from 6-7:30 p.m. The three-part program includes online self-paced learning modules, live virtual sessions which feature horticultural experts from throughout the state, and a 200-hour apprenticeship. Participants should plan to spend approximately 4-5 hours a week on additional coursework like reading, videos and activities. 

Successful completion of the program qualifies participants to receive the Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training micro-credential and the title of Maine Horticulture Apprentice. Backed by the University of Maine system, the micro-credential verifies to potential employers successful completion of a high-quality, rigorous training and demonstrates the skills necessary to be a valuable horticulture industry employee. Certification is available upon completion of all three required course parts.

The Maine Gardener Training program is designed to supply learners with a foundation in horticulture education and skills for use in personal gardens. The workshop is recommended for those who would like to access in-depth training without any volunteer or apprentice requirement. Registration will open Oct. 10. 

A stable internet connection and registration is required. Space is limited. For exact course fees, schedule and to register visit the Maine Horticulture Apprentice Training webpage and the Maine Gardener Training webpage.

For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Rebecca Long rebecca.j.long@maine.edu, 207.743.6329 or extension.gardening@maine.edu, 207.581.3188.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension:

As a trusted resource for over 100 years, University of Maine Cooperative Extension has supported UMaine’s land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension seeks to build thriving communities and grow the food-based economy, focusing on aspects from production and processing to nutrition, food safety and food security. Extension also conducts the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in Maine through 4-H which offers hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement and creates a positive environment where participants are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.