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Extension Master Gardener Volunteers (EMGV) offer a horticulture GrowLine through NC Cooperative Extension, Stanly County center office, where gardeners can ask for seasonal gardening help.

Questions could range from solving a pruning problem, identifying a plant disease or pest, finding out which plants flourish in the Piedmont, to fertilizing lawns or planting blueberries.

Stanly EMGVs are neighbors who have been trained and certified through North Carolina State University’s Extension program and the local horticulture agent. The initial program teaches a wide-range of horticultural topics with a focus on finding research-based information and sharing the science behind sustainable gardening practices.

EMGVs live in Stanly County and have similar garden issues such as soil health, irrigation, pests and diseases, compost, and garden design. EMGVs have varied interests such as horses, goats and chickens, some have different types of beehives, others specialize in native plants, pollinator gardens or orchards, while many prefer growing flowers, vegetables or grow fruit trees.

Some EMGVs live in the country while others live within city limits. But we all share a passion for talking about our gardens and helping other gardeners flourish.

How to Use the GrowLine: Call the Stanly County Extension Office at 704-983-3987 Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. and ask for the GrowLine. Leave your name, phone number and a detailed description of your problem (photos are helpful). Your message will be forwarded to a Certified Master Gardener Volunteer who will research your question then return your call usually within the week.

For more information on the GrowLine, call Lori Ivey or Lisa Forrest at 704-983-3987.