Contact Us > Becoming a UC Master Gardener
This page provides information about applying for openings in the next Master Gardener initial training, which will take place January through May 2029. We welcome applicants from all walks of life, with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
To learn more about our program and our passion for sharing science-based, eco-friendly, sustainable gardening practices with the home gardening public, please visit Becoming a UC Master Gardener. We also welcome you to attend some of our talks and events.
Eligibility requirements
You must be a resident of Santa Clara County and at least 18 years of age.
Application process
The application process has 3 steps:
- Mandatory Information Session: You must attend an information session. These meetings provide detailed information on the application process, Master Gardener training, and program requirements.
- Application: Following your attendance at one of the information sessions, a link to the application will be emailed to you.
- Interview: We will review applications, interview candidates, and select people for the new class.
Please note: specific dates for the class beginning in January 2029 have not been finalized. Information sessions are typically held in late August, with applications due mid-September, and interviews in early October. Once details are available, we will update this page. Submit your contact information using the link at the bottom of the page to be notified when more information is available.
Acceptance into the program
If you are accepted into the UC Master Gardener Program, you will be enrolled in a weekly training class held via Zoom on Thursday evenings from January through May 2029. In addition to the weekly classes, there will be 8 in-person hands-on workshops at our various Demonstration Gardens. These classes will be held on Saturday mornings.
There is a tuition fee of approximately $300 due upon acceptance which covers training and resource materials. Need-based scholarships are available—applicants will not be turned away for lack of funds.
For work with the public, UC requires that trainees be fingerprinted and pass a background check. (Many places in the community offer this, including some UPS stores, some community centers, and some churches. See the list of Live Scan fingerprinting services.)
Volunteer responsibilities
After completing training, UC Master Gardener volunteers must complete 50 hours of volunteer service during the first year in the program. In subsequent years, 25 hours of volunteer service and 12 hours of continuing education.
Sign-up to be notified
Submit your contact information to be notified when there is more information.