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.
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.
- Therapeutic Horticulture – Providing experiences focusing the relationships between people and nature.
- 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.
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. You can also reference our Gardening & Community Resources page.
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.
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.
How can I become an Extension Master Gardener℠ 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.
Please note: The Extension Master Gardener℠ program is not just a gardening course, but rather a volunteer training program.
Initial Requirements (Year One)
- Complete the 50-hour initial training course
- Volunteer a minimum of 50 hours in approved service roles
Annual Ongoing Requirements
- Participate in at least 10 hours of continuing education
- Volunteer at least 25 hours in approved service roles
Failure to complete annual requirements may result in the loss of certification and the ability to participate in Extension Master Gardener volunteer activities.
For more information on how to become an Extension Master Gardener℠ volunteer, click the button below.
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 AM – 4 PM
- Contact: (910) 798-7680
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.
Do you have a list of landscapers or arborists?
We cannot make specific recommendations, but here are some resources to help you:
- View our Area Professionals, Garden Centers, and Supplies list — this list is ever changing and includes local options. Please contact the NHC Consumer Horticulture Agent if you wish to be added to this list.
- To find a licensed contractor, visit the NC Landscape Contractors Licensing Board and search for Wilmington, NC.
- To locate a licensed landscape architect, use the NC Board of Landscape Architects Licensee Lookup and search by Wilmington, NC.
- To find an ISA Certified Arborist, visit treesaregood.org and use their search tool by location.
Do you have a list of local garden clubs?
Yes! You can view our list of Cape Fear Area Garden Clubs here:Cape Fear Area Garden Clubs List.
Do you offer bee removal services?
We do not provide bee removal services, but the New Hanover County Beekeepers Association has several members who can help with the humane removal of “nuisance” honey bee swarms from your property. Visit their website for a list of local beekeepers who offer this service.
