Horticulture in Butte County

Gardening and horticulture

UI Extension, Butte County offers a variety of resources and programs to help you better understand horticulture and gardening issues. The Idaho Master Gardener Program trains citizens to share their gardening knowledge through community outreach. Contact the UI Extension, Butte County office at or butte@uidaho.edu 208-527-8587 for current class dates.

Master gardener program

Each year, hundreds of master gardeners share their gardening knowledge as they serve their communities and the environment.

What master gardeners do

  • Answer horticulture questions (by telephone and in person at the UI Extension office)
  • Promote environmental responsibility
  • Bring the joy of gardening to all ages
  • Teach classes for large groups: civic organizations, church groups, garden clubs, schools and others

Becoming an Idaho Master Gardener

If you are interested in being certified as an Idaho Master Gardener, contact the UI Extension, Butte County office at butte@uidaho.edu or 208-527-8587 to learn about upcoming classes (held roughly every other year) and request an application.

Participant are required to complete 36 hours of training and 30 hours of hands-on gardening and horticulture. They continue their service by helping with home horticulture issues, beautifying the community or assisting in community gardening.

Visit UI Extension's Idaho Master Gardener Program website for more information.

Arco community garden

The centerpiece of UI Extension, Butte County’s Idaho Master Gardener Program is the Arco Community Garden. The land was provided by the Butte County Fair Board and water is supplied by the City of Arco. Citizens can manage a private garden plot for a small fee. The community garden often supplies fresh vegetables to the local senior citizens center.

Related resources

Contact us in Butte County - butte@uidaho.edu