The Extension Master Gardener program, which trained volunteers to provide their local communities with horticultural education and gardening assistance, was established in Washington state in 1972.The program became internationally acclaimed when it spread throughout the United States.Volunteers are trained to serve their local communities as gardeners, educators, and leaders.
Step 1: There is a certified Extension Master Gardener program near you.
Every state has an Extension Master Gardener program.Future master gardeners are educated about their region's climate and vegetation through each program.A complete list of programs can be found here.A state land-grant university or a university's Cooperative Extension Program runs every EMG program.Most counties have their own extension, so they can help introduce you to the program.There are other master gardener programs in Canada and the United States that are not affiliated with the EMG program.
Step 2: Request more info about the program.
The costs, curriculums, procedures, and requirements are slightly different for every program.It is always a good idea to contact the program's representative after selecting a program.The representative can give you more specific information.A phone number, email address, and a building address should be listed on each program's website.You can use this information to contact the program that interests you.
Step 3: You have to apply to the program.
The program doesn't have a deadline or universal application.Most applications can be downloaded or printed from the website.You can request an application if you don't have internet access.The application deadline will either be posted online, or listed on the application itself.If you want to see an example application, you can find it here.You may have to give more than one reference.You may have to answer a lot of questions.Acceptance into the Master Gardener program is not based on prior gardening knowledge or experience.A passion for teaching others about gardening and a sincere interest in learning about horticulture are the only requirements.The short answer portion of the application can be used to show your interest in expanding your knowledge and sharing it with others.You should proofread your application before you submit it.
Step 4: Receive acceptance into the program.
If you are accepted into the program, the staff at your local program will contact you.Additional instructions and information about the program will be included in your acceptance packet.You may have to pay the fee or fill out additional paperwork.Class sizes change a lot.Larger classes can be accepted by programs that meet in university cities and urban centers.Smaller class sizes are required for satellite programs that meet in rural counties or small towns.The program in Texas' Dallas County has an average class size of 54 students each year, but the program out of the state's Grayson County only has 10 students per class.Contact your local extension office to learn more about class size and retention rates.If you are accepted into the program, inquire about need-based scholarships.Contact your program's representative if you have any questions.If you want to reserve your spot, fill out the paperwork and pay the fee as soon as possible.
Step 5: Pass a background check.
You will be able to work with a lot of people as a Master Gardener.All of the accepted participants are required to complete a background check in order to ensure the safety of these individuals.You will be admitted to the program once you pass the background check.
Step 6: You should keep your absences to a minimum.
An intensive core course is the first part of the program that prepares Master Gardener candidates to volunteer in the field.While you are allowed a small number of absences, your presences at each core course is preferred.dismissal from the program is possible due to excessive absences.
Step 7: The core training needs to be completed.
The core training curriculum is shared by the programs across the nation.The content of each program is tailored to the climate and terrain of the state.Master Gardener candidates are expected to complete anywhere from 20 to 66 hours of core training.The subjects covered in these courses are lawn care plant nutrition pest identification and pesticides growing vegetables and fruits.
Step 8: You can volunteer in your local community.
Local communities are provided with gardening advice, assistance and information by Master Gardeners.To prepare Master Gardener candidates for their future roles within the community, there is a substantial volunteer component.It is possible to be required to record anywhere from 30 to 66 volunteer hours.Some states will allow you to fulfill the requirement by taking a Pro-hort course for a fee.Volunteer opportunities can include leading a child or adult educational program, answering gardening questions via hotline or email, organizing and running educational conferences, and working at a community garden.
Step 9: Become a volunteer master gardener.
You will receive a certificate of completion after you have fulfilled all of the program requirements.You must have your certification renewed every year.
Step 10: Continuing education classes and trainings are available.
Volunteer Master Gardeners must continue their education in order to remain certified.Depending on the program, the required number of classroom hours can be different.All of your classroom hours must be submitted to your local extension office by the end of the year.If you are renewing your certificate for the first time, you may have to complete additional educational hours.As your years of service increase, the amount of educational hours you are required to fulfill may decrease.
Step 11: Continue volunteering in your community.
Volunteer Master Gardeners are required to fulfill their primary role: community liaison.The number of volunteer hours varies from program to program.You must submit your volunteer hours to your local extension office by December 31 each year.
Step 12: Attend meetings.
There are many gardening conferences and Master Gardener meetings.Volunteer Master Gardeners can benefit from these events.Volunteer Master Gardeners are not required to attend garden conferences, but they are encouraged to do so.