Become a Master Gardener!

 Benefits of being a Master Gardener

• Contribute to your community -- every year UCCE Master Gardeners throughout the state contribute several thousand hours of volunteer service educating our communities about sustainable gardening.
• Gain excellent knowledge about the life of the garden.
• Put what you know into practice for the benefit of others and for our environment.
• Enjoy working together with a great group of gardening enthusiasts.

Who can apply?

Residents of Plumas & Sierra Counties are encouraged to apply.  Prior horticulture experience is encouraged but not required.  We are seeking applicants with a strong volunteer ethic and a desire to make a long-term commitment to the program and their community.

What does the training include?

Each UC Master Gardener will receive over 50 hours of training from University of California specialists, advisers and other professionals. Class topics include botany, composting, integrated pest management (IPM), soils, water management, entomology, plant pathology, fruit and ornamental tree culture and sustainable landscape practices.

What is the application process?

Interested individuals should contact us for information on the next Master Gardener training opportunity.

Is there a cost for the training?

The fee for the training and materials is $175. 

What are the responsibilities of Master Gardener Volunteers?

Master Gardener volunteers are charged with sharing research-based horticultural information with the public as agents of the University of California.  Volunteers can select from a variety of educational outreach activities including writing articles on home gardening, developing brochures, staffing booths at farmer's markets, assisting with workshops, developing demonstration gardens, and answering home gardening questions through the Help Line.

UCCE Master Gardeners are required to complete 50 volunteer hours the first year and 25 hours each year thereafter.  In addition, Master Gardeners are required to complete 12 hours of continuing education each year after the first year.

If you have additional questions, please contact us.