Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – How Can the Consumer Horticulture Program Help You?
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Collapse ▲The Consumer Horticulture Program at N.C. Cooperative Extension, New Hanover County Center, provides science-based education and resources to help residents make informed gardening decisions. Whether you are a home gardener, educator, or community organizer, our goal is to support sustainable and environmentally responsible gardening practices.
To request a program, complete our Consumer Horticulture Programming Request Form.
1. What services does the Consumer Horticulture Program offer?
We provide educational resources and programming to support individuals, schools, and organizations in sustainable gardening and landscape management.
Key Services
- Plant Clinic – Free, research-based guidance on plant selection, pest identification, and soil health.
- Soil Testing & Analysis – Information on soil health, nutrient levels, and best practices for improvement.
- Gardening Workshops & Classes – Online and in-person training on a variety of horticultural topics.
- Nature at Home Program – Guidance on creating a wildlife-friendly habitat and certification opportunities.
- School & Community Garden Support – Resources for educators, volunteers, and community garden organizers.
- Small Farmer Resources – Assistance for new and beginning farmers looking to establish or expand their operations.
For more details, visit New Hanover County Cooperative Extension – Consumer Horticulture.
2. How can I request assistance for my home garden, school, or community project?
If you need educational support, workshops, or guidance on sustainable gardening practices, complete our Consumer Horticulture Programming Request Form:
Request Assistance
3. Can Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteers help maintain my garden?
While Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteers do not provide ongoing garden maintenance, we may be able to assist with educational support depending on volunteer availability.
On-Site Garden Consultation (Availability Dependent)
- If a volunteer is available, a one-time site visit may be arranged to assess the garden and provide recommendations.
- Consultations focus on best practices for soil health, plant selection, and sustainable garden management.
- This is an educational visit rather than an ongoing maintenance service.
Workshops for Groups, Schools, and Organizations
- If volunteer capacity allows, we may offer a garden planning and maintenance workshop tailored to your needs.
- Topics may include soil preparation, seasonal planting, raised bed management, and pest control.
- A hands-on work session may be possible if a volunteer is available to lead it.
Educational Resources and Local Connections
- We can provide NC State Extension gardening guides and fact sheets to support your project.
- If additional assistance is needed, we may be able to connect you with local gardening organizations or community groups.
4. What is the Plant Clinic, and how can it help me?
The Plant Clinic offers free, research-based advice on a range of gardening topics, including:
- Diagnosing plant diseases, pests, and weeds
- Selecting plants suited to your site conditions
- Avoiding the overuse of garden chemicals
- Submitting soil and water samples for analysis
Plant Clinic Information
- Location: Hutaff Building, New Hanover County Arboretum, 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC
- Hours: Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Contact: (910) 798-7680
For more information, visit New Hanover County Cooperative Extension – Plant Clinic.
5. How do I get my soil tested?
Soil testing services are available through the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
- April–November: Free soil testing
- December–March: $4 per sample
- Additional tests include nematode analysis, plant tissue analysis, and water analysis (fees vary)
Samples can be dropped off at our Plant Clinic, and volunteers or staff will guide you through the process.
6. How can I become a trained gardening volunteer?
The Extension Master Gardener℠ program trains and engages volunteers to serve as community educators. Volunteers receive training in horticulture and help share research-based gardening information with the public.
Requirements
- Complete 50 hours of initial horticultural training and meet annual recertification requirements
- Volunteer a minimum number of hours in approved service roles
- Participate in continuing education opportunities
For more information on how to become an Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteer, visit New Hanover County Extension Master Gardener℠ Program.