The Junior Master Gardener Program, (JMG), is a new and innovative 4-H youth gardening project. The program was developed by Texas A&M University. Currently, the Level I training program is designed for children in grades 3 to 5 and is modeled after the adult Master Gardener Program. Training materials are being developed for grades 6-8 (Level II) and grades 9-12 (Level III).

Each level will contain:
Plant growth and development
Soils and water
Insects and disease
Environmental horticulture and ecology
Vegetables and herbs
Fruits and nuts
Landscape horticulture
Life skills and career exploration

The JMG program includes both group and individual activities. The JMG youth handbook and teacher/leader guide are excellent resources to implement this program.

Who can be part of the JMG program?
Any school class, JMG club, after school program, home school group, or any group of interested young gardeners

What defines a JMG group?
Minimum of five youths with an adult leader using JMG materials and registering the group through JMG Kids

How can I use the JMG program?

If all sections are completed, youth can become Junior Master Gardeners. Complete one section and receive the "Golden Ray Series". Use JMB activities to make your existing program better.

The Duval County Extension Office has received grant funds from the Community Foundation are provided by the Harold K. Smith Charitable Fund and the Jacksonville Jaquars Foundation to work with selected schools implementing this program. If you are a school and are interested in participating in this program, please contact Terry DelValle.

Links of Interest:
National Gardening Assn., Gardening with Kids
Gardening For Kids
Florida School Garden Competition
EPA's Pesticide Bingo
Kindergarden
BugInfo
Junior Master Gardener Program