The Junior Master Gardener 4-H Club is an innovative 4-H youth gardening opportunity. It is modeled after the highly popular Master Gardener program, and offers horticulture and environmental science education through fun and creative activities. Curious youth ages 8–18 (as of Sept. 1, 2025) are invited to dig into the world of plants, science, and stewardship! This 4-H club meets for eight one-hour sessions and follows the nationally recognized Junior Master Gardener curriculum, exploring a little bit of everything, from plants and soil to insects, ecosystems, and caring for our environment.
Meetings will be in the Canton Giving Garden, and will be hands-on, engaging, and designed to spark curiosity at every age level.
Club members will also have the opportunity to participate in Canton Neighborhood Connections, a special community-driven day focused on doing kind things for our neighbors. Whether your child loves gardening, nature, or just getting their hands dirty, this 4-H Club is a fun way to learn, grow, and give back.
Club meeting dates and topics
April 23 – Plant Growth & Development
May 14 – Soils & Water
June 4 – Ecology & Environmental Horticulture
June 18 – Insects & Diseases
July 16 – Landscape Horticulture
July 30 – Fruits & Nuts
August 13 – Vegetables & Herbs
September 12 - Canton Neighborhood Connections Community Service Event
September 17 – Life Skills & Career Exploration
Register through 4-H zSuite online enrollment system.
There is a $5 annual 4-H enrollment fee.
To register, families can set up an account with the Illinois 4-H enrollment system, 4h.zsuite.org/, and select the 4-H club named Junior Master Gardener. If you have questions about the registration process more details are available on the Illinois 4-H website or by calling University of Illinois Extension at 309-547-3711.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact
Krista Gray
Also check out other Meetups in Canton.
