Master Gardener Convention held again at BYU-Idaho

Gardening is a big passion in eastern Idaho, but with freezing temperatures, little rain and high winds, keeping your garden in tip-top shape is difficult. That’s why
That’s why the Master Gardener Convention may be the place for you.

“What’s wrong with my plant?” said Wayne Jones, who works for the University of Idaho as an extension coordinator for Bonneville County in horticulture.

Searching for the answer can be a challenge, but not if you attend the Master Gardener Convention.

More than 150 Idahoan gardeners headed to BYU-Idaho Today for one simple reason — to become a better gardener.

They’re going to prune trees, they’re going to diagnose plant problems, it’s all about hands on learning,” said Lance Ellis who works for the University of Idaho as an extension coordinator for Fremont and Madison County in horticulture.

Fourteen different classes were held today including composting, landscape concepts and home-grown flower arrangements.This is only the second annual Master Gardening Convention, but for Jones, a long-time horticulture professor for the University of Idaho, there’s nothing better than seeing people learn.

“Its just fascinating to watch the light bulb go on if you will, in the mind. They get excited and go home and do what they learn.” said Jones.

Not only are the classes intriguing, but BYU-Idaho is also home to the Jungle Greenroom, where tropical plants grow with nothing but natural sunlight.

“Nobody else really in the state of Idaho has a jungle greenhouse. with plants from the tropics, from the caribbean, and plants … plants you just never see them here.” said Ellis.

And everyone is welcome to attend the Master Gardener Convention next year.

Next year’s convention location is still to be determined. Some would like to give the western side of the state a chance to hold the convention, but BYU-Idaho is more than willing to host it again.