For the second year in a row, CSU Extension’s Certified Colorado Gardener program has been moved to an online, virtual format, informally known as ‘Green School.’
“These courses were developed by CSU faculty and Extension staff to help Coloradans understand and overcome the challenges of cultivating landscapes and gardens in the West,” said Eric Hammond, CSU Horticulture Agent in Adams County. “The program can help you take your landscape to the next level or give you the skills to start a career in the green industry.”
Full or short course options
Choose from either the full course or multiple short course options. The full course includes 12 online, self-paced classes, two live webinars, weekly class reviews, and access to course content for one year. Some of the Green School topics include:
- Soils, Fertilizers & Amendments
- Botany: How Plants Grow
- The Science of Planting Trees and Care of Woody Plants
- Lawn Care and Turfgrass Management
- Weed Management
- Challenges of Colorado Gardening
- Growing Food: Vegetables & Fruits
Participants who complete the full Green School will become CSU Certified Colorado Gardeners.
Giving back to horticulture programming across Colorado
Green School not only educates avid and hobby gardeners across the state, but also supports horticulture programming in Colorado counties. Fifty percent of all revenue from the full course is donated back to gardening education and outreach initiatives.
“This program has been a great way for us to teach Coloradans about the nuances of gardening in our sometimes stubborn climate, while also giving back locally,” said Katie Dunker, the Colorado Master Gardener Statewide Coordinator.
Last year’s Green School helped fund programs like:
CSU employee discount
All CSU employees and county-based staff are eligible for 50% off Green School programs with promo code CGC50% and your CSU or County email address at checkout. Registration closes Sunday, August 15, 2021 with classes starting Monday, August 23, 2021.
No prior gardening experience is required. Learn more and register at certifiedcoloradogardener.org.
