2019 ASHS Annual Conference

What initially began as a simple revision of the NC Master Gardener Manual has morphed into a multifaceted tool that serves as the platform for the entire NC Extension Gardener educational outreach program. This 728-page handbook is the text for programs ranging from Extension Master Gardener volunteers to prison inmates. It includes 1,067 color images, detailed graphics, 109 tables, a glossary and index, case studies, frequently asked questions, and specific management strategies for insects, diseases, weeds, and other pests. Written by a team of horticulture experts, it contains a wealth of information to support gardeners in creating and managing thriving gardens, lawns, and landscapes. It is available free online; as a hardback book for $60.00 and as an eBook for $50.00. The project required the development of a colossal team and benefitted from the contributions of 57 volunteers, 42 agents, and 42 faculty and staff. In 2018, 2,366 hard copies, and 27 eBooks were sold. In addition, 171,802 web users visited the site for a total of 233,363 unique page views.

The handbook inspired the creation of a teacher's guide with all the information that trainers need to "flip the classroom" replacing traditional lectures with hands-on interactive tasks requiring students to organize and use the information helping them own and understand the key concepts at a much deeper level. The Teacher's guide contains: pre-homework, an introductory PowerPoint to run before class while students are assembling, that has a review of the previous session, teasers for current session, and thought-provoking facts, quiz questions and quotes; a PowerPoint presentation and script; supply list, and directions for each interactive station; quiz, homework as well as field trip suggestions. Students are asked to read the chapter ahead of time and come to class for a brief review of key points before rotating through six interactive stations. Each station focuses on a separate objective offering opportunities to experiment, observe, organize and synthesize information through hands-on, role-play, and interactive activities and labs that drive home the objectives of each chapter. The facilitators' guide is full of customizable materials that help instructors easily create a tailored course. This is especially helpful to new agents or those just starting an Extension Master Gardener program in their county as well as public gardens, colleges, nurseries, and prisons that have horticulture training programs and need quality, research-based training materials.

The handbook is also the framework for the expanding Distance Education program