By Andi Anderson
Michigan State University Extension (MSU Extension) invites gardening enthusiasts to enroll in its winter 2026 Foundations of Gardening course, running from February 12 to April 16, 2026.
The 10-week online program is designed for both beginners and experienced gardeners seeking to deepen their understanding of plant science and sustainable gardening practices.
Live virtual sessions will be held every Thursday evening from 6 to 8:30 p.m., featuring lectures from MSU horticulture experts.
Participants will engage through a combination of videos, readings, webinars, and hands-on learning activities from the comfort of their homes.
The course explores topics such as plant science, soils, propagation, entomology, plant diseases and pests, lawncare, and environmental gardening.
Participants will also learn how to attract pollinators and create resilient, productive gardens.
Foundations of Gardening also serves as the prerequisite course for individuals who wish to apply to the MSU Extension Master Gardener Program®. To qualify, students must complete all units and achieve at least an 80% score on their assessments and final exam. Those who successfully finish receive a certificate of completion.
The course fee is $350, but MSU Extension is offering scholarships worth $150 to help reduce costs. Scholarship applications are open from October 14 to November 11, 2025, with recipients notified between November 12 and December 1.
Participants who do not plan to become Master Gardener Volunteers are also welcome. Many take the course to enhance their professional landscaping skills or simply improve their home and community gardens.
Past students praised the program’s comprehensive content and engaging instructors. One participant shared, “The weekly live sessions were done very well and each presenter was truly excited about their expertise and willing to share. I would highly recommend this class to anyone that enjoys working with plants and landscaping.”
With winter approaching, MSU Extension encourages gardeners to invest in their skills and join the Foundations of Gardening course to prepare for a smarter, healthier garden in spring. For more information, contact MSUE.FOG@msu.edu or visit the MSU Extension website.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension
Categories: Michigan, Education