National Garden Club Schools

In 2019, the FGCM will sponsor a series of Flower Show Schools to be held in the Columbia area. Since every year judges are lost (going emeritus, moving out of state, health issues, death), it is important to periodically hold a school series to obtain new judges. The new Handbook for Flower Shows now lists Course I as a prerequisite to obtaining credit for the remaining three courses so anyone who has an interest in becoming a judge should be sure to attend Course I. The dates are May 17-19, 2019.

By the end of 2019, two courses will have been held and students who successfully completed both courses are considered Student Exhibitors. This means they can begin to accumulate the blue ribbons needed. To do this, there must be flower shows so all clubs are urged when planning your activities for the year 2020 to consider holding a flower show. If a club does plan a flower show, under who may enter, please use the wording "and invitees" so that a student judge who is not a member of that club would be able to enter.

In addition to individuals attending a Flower Show School, clubs can support the schools by sponsoring members either by paying for their registration or by purchasing the required reading books.

(Paraphrased from Roni Pidgeon, Chair FGCM Flower Show School)

Overview

Helping members become accomplished landscape designers.

The Landscape Design Study Courses offer a series of four 10-hour courses. The courses cover the history of landscape design as well as instruction from landscape architects in a variety of design techniques used in home and municipal settings.

The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects: from landscape design history to landscape architecture in the year 2000 and beyond. Since its founding in 1958, professional instructors have maintained the high standards originally incorporated in the study program. Also offered are many optional programs, such as conferences, symposia and tours. Students acquire the tools for making their own gardens more beautiful and easier to maintain. Many students have been motivated to serve in political decision-making areas where awareness of the impact of a well-designed landscape can enhance the beauty and enjoyment of life in the public arena.

Check the National Garden Club site (NationalGardenClubs.org) for national schools. Registration for the March school in Missouri has closed.

A self-study course in basic gardening practices

The Horticulture Study Course provides instruction in basic gardening practices for those members who do not have the opportunity to attend the schools that NGC offers. Whether you're a novice or an "old hand" at gardening, you'll enjoy the down-to-earth information and activities presented.

The Horticulture Study Course is available 2 parts for $10.00 each plus shipping and handling. Click the following links to order online from the Official NGC store. Or, call NGC Headquarters toll-free at (800) 550-6007. Please have your credit card information available when ordering.

Overview

Helping members become accomplished environmental consultants.

The mission of the Environmental Studies Schools is to teach environmental literacy to cherish, protect and conserve the living earth. The courses teach participants environmental literacy, appreciation of the natural world, encourages action for sustainable development and appreciation for the interrelation of all natural things. Particular emphasis is presently placed on land conservation, water conservation and air quality.

Check the National Garden Club website (NationalGardenClubs.org) for future classes. None currently offered in Missouri.