Charles County Environment & Natural Resources

Master Gardeners are volunteer representatives of the University of Maryland who are trained to educate citizens about effective and sustainable horticultural practices. Master Gardeners offer landscaping problem-solving through demonstration projects, partnerships with other organizations, and public outreach activities. For more information, visit the UME's Master Gardener webpage or learn how to become a Master Gardener.

Charles County Master Gardeners

• Master Gardener Projects of Charles County
• Upcoming Events Calendar
• Charles County Master Gardener Facebook Page
• Master Gardener Request Form

Charles County Master Gardener Page

Master Gardeners of Charles County traditionally hold plant clinics at the Waldorf and La Plata Farmer’s Markets on Saturdays, beginning in May and continuing through September. 

What Do Plant Clinics Offer?

We provide free, science-based advice on all your gardening challenges-plant problems, bug problems, soil problems, and much more.  Is there something eating your plant?  We encourage homeowners to bring plant stem cuttings and photos for identification or diagnosis. 

Master Gardeners can help identify the likely problem and suggest solutions to restore your plant, lawn, or garden to good health.  We also offer advice on pruning, vegetables, insects, lawns, trees, shrubs, and much more!  Please do not bring live animals.

You may also bring plant samples to the Extension Office, Monday-Friday, between 8:00 am and 4:30 pm.

So What Are Good and Bad Bugs?

How can you tell?  If your sample is identified as a pest, Master Gardeners will work with you to develop a management strategy.  If it’s a beneficial insect or plant, Master Gardener volunteers will help you figure out how to keep them around.

YouTube Video: Good and Bad Bugs in the Garden

Good and Bad Bugs in the Garden

Learn about Good and Bad Bugs in the Garden, presented by Tarrant Area Food Bank Community Garden

The Charles County Bay-Wise Program is a homeowner education program conducted by UME Master Gardeners that focuses on improving water quality through smarter gardening practices. 

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Master Gardeners utilize demonstration gardens for hands-on teaching and self-guided tours to showcase sustainable gardening practices in Maryland. The plants featured in these gardens vary from herbaceous annuals and perennials, shrubs, and trees to fruits and vegetables. Some focus on themes such as container or pollinator gardening. 

Find a Demonstration Garden

Grow It Eat It (GIEI) is an educational program that teaches county residents how to grow vegetables and address plant pests and fungal diseases.

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Charles County Resources

Composting

Charles County Master Gardeners join the Charles County government each year to host community workshops for county residents on composting and installing rain barrels.

Native Plants

Native plants support a healthier local environment. Once established, they require minimal water and thrive without fertilizers or synthetic chemicals—all while eliminating the need for routine lawn mowing.

Pollinators

Maryland has more than 430 bee species, 150 butterfly species, and countless other pollinator species that power our food system.

Request Assistance

If you or a Charles County organization would like help with planting techniques or design, or would like to request a gardening presentation, please complete this request form.

Charles County Master Gardeners Facebook Page

Extension Resources

• Ask an Extension Agent
• Home & Garden Information Center (HGIC) 
• Master Gardener Program
• Master Gardener Resources
• Maryland Grows Blog
• UME Gardening Resources
• Master Gardener Volunteer Resources

Aquaculture and Seafood Technology

UME educational programs that support sustainable aquaculture, seafood safety, ecosystem restoration, and Maryland's seafood industry. 

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Forestry and Natural Resources

The University of Maryland Extension ENR program offers resources on forest stewardship, wildlife habitat, conservation practices, renewable energy, and natural resource management. 

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Home Horticulture & Gardening Program

UMD Extension agents provide the community with science-based information on gardening, landscaping, integrated pest management, and sustainable landscape practices. 

• Ask an Extension Agent
• Home & Garden Information Center (HGIC) 
• Master Gardener Program
• UME Gardening Resources

Water and Climate

UME agents offer education on water quality, watershed protection, climate resilience, stormwater management, and the proper care of private wells and septic systems. 

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