The Junior Master Gardener (JMG) program is a youth gardening program designed to help young people learn more about gardening. Five or more youth work under the guidance and leadership of an adult leader. Through Junior Master Gardener programs youth increase their knowledge of horticulture and nutrition. Junior Master Gardener projects also help youth develop their leadership and decision making skills. Groups are encouraged to identify local needs and become involved in community service activities.

The Junior Master Gardener program utilizes an outstanding curriculum that features hands-on activities. In addition to the broad-based basic curriculum, JMG has developed specialized curriculum in the areas of nutrition, wildlife gardening, and children’s literature. Youth enrolled in registered JMG groups can work toward certificates and pins based on their level of involvement.

The Junior Master Gardener program was developed by the Texas Cooperative Extension Service. The program is administered through the National JMG office and affiliated land-grant universities and cooperative extension programs.

To learn more about the JMG program see the Kansas JMG Website: www.4-h.k-state.edu/JMG OR contact the Kansas JMG Coordinator, Evelyn Neier, Associate Specialist, 4-H Youth Development, K-State Research & Extension, 9822 Harvest Court, Wichita, KS 67212, eneier@ksu.edu, 316-722-0932.