The Haywood County Master Gardener Volunteer Association is accepting applications for grants for horticultural projects in Haywood County.  The deadline for submissions is Monday, October 1.

The grant money must be used for research or educational purposes in the area of environment, gardening or horticulture.  Beautification projects will not qualify. “For example, in previous years several local schools have requested and received grants for greenhouses and gardens to teach students how to propagate and care for plants,” said Joe Smiley, Master Gardener Volunteer. “One year one of our county’s residents received a grant to expand her bee keeping business which she uses to educate groups on the important role bees play in the environment. We have also supported children’s gardens at a local church and a community group.”

Applications for grants over $200 should be accompanied by a detailed budget and timeline.  Each application must have a Master Gardener sponsor, who will review the application and budget, oversee funding and report to the MGVA on the progress of the project.

“To receive an application, or if you do not personally know a Master Gardener Volunteer,” continued Smiley, “please call the Haywood County Cooperative Extension Office at 456-3575.”