The Extension Master Gardener program was established in 1972 by a County Extension Agent in the state of Washington. He realized that by utilizing local gardening enthusiasts and their potential he could multiply his community’s education efforts. In Kansas this volunteer educational program is through Kansas State University and is sponsored by Kansas State Research & Extension.
The Pratt County Master Gardeners program began in 2019 under the Kansas State University Extension initiative. Anyone wishing to become a Master Gardener is welcome and must undergo extensive training, committing 40 to 50 hours of classroom or online instruction in subjects such as botany, soil science, turfgrass, vegetable gardening, landscaping, and several other subjects. The classes are taught by K-State specialists and require a similar number of volunteer hours to complete certification. After the first year the Extension Master Gardener is expected to complete 20 hours of educationally focused volunteer service within their communities.
“We meet in person or online through the K-State platform,” explained Master Gardener Donna Huff. “After training, we continue volunteering and take additional educational hours every year to keep our certification current.”
Beautifying Pratt, One Project at a Time
One of the most visible contributions of the Master Gardeners is their maintenance of South Main Street in Pratt. The group’s dedication ensures downtown remains vibrant and welcoming throughout every season. They are also responsible for a designated pollinator garden near the pond at the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Museum, designed to support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators essential to plant health and crop production.
Learning Never Ends: Lunch and Learns
The group hosts several educational events throughout the year, including the popular "Lunch and Learn" sessions through the Pratt County Extension Office. Topics vary from native plants to drip irrigation and garden ponds. There is a fee with some programs so you should call your local Extension Office for each session’s details or check their Facebook page. Local experts and passionate hobbyists—such as those who’ve maintained backyard ponds for years—often lead these workshops.
One recurring favorite is the holiday session led by well-known local floral designer Lou Lynne Moss, which regularly draws over 30 participants.
Floral Leadership at the Pratt County Fair
The Master Gardeners play an important role in organizing the floral department at the Pratt County Fair. They handle check-ins, judging support, and display logistics. The fair features open class entries and limited 4-H categories. Interested community members can register online or get a fair book from the Extension Office for more details. To ensure room for everyone’s beautiful creations, please make sure to get registered early.
Outreach Through Articles and Advice
In addition to their hands-on work, the Master Gardeners also share their expertise through monthly articles in the Pratt Tribune. These pieces offer seasonal gardening advice and updates on local projects.
They also field educational questions from the community—such as identifying pests or advising on plant care. However, as Diana Hemphill clarified, “We’re not a planting or landscaping service. We’re here to educate and guide.”
Annual Garden Tour: Inspiration for All
Each year, the group organizes a garden tour featuring a selection of local gardens. This year’s tour is set for
June 21st, with five gardens on display. Tickets are $10 and are available through the Extension Office or from a Master Gardener. The tour highlights a range of garden styles, themes, and skill levels, offering inspiration and advice from hosts.
How to Get Involved
Interested in joining? Prospective members can:
- Take K-State’s online training or join a nearby in-person course
- Contact the Pratt County Extension Office for upcoming opportunities. Pratt County Extension Office – (620) 672-6121
- Attend a quarterly meeting to learn more and connect with current members.
Membership is open to men and women, and the group welcomes anyone curious about gardening, regardless of skill level. As of now, there are 12 active members and several retirees who still support their mission.
Resources for the Community
The group encourages locals to sign up for K-State’s weekly garden newsletter and take part in the
First Wednesday Garden Hour, a free online session offered monthly at noon by K-State.
https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/consumer-horticulture/garden-hour/
