We are Recruiting for Our 2025 New Volunteer Training Class!
Click here to sign up for one of our upcoming information sessions.
About the UC Master Gardener Training Program
The UC Master Gardener Training Program is not your typical gardening class. It’s a unique opportunity to become a trained volunteer dedicated to sharing research-based gardening knowledge with your community. While you’ll gain a deep understanding of horticulture and sustainable gardening practices, the focus is on outreach—helping others grow their gardening skills and fostering a love for nature. If you’re passionate about making a difference and connecting with your community through gardening, this program is for you!
Classes are taught by University advisers, local horticultural educators, and certified UC Master Gardeners. Topics include horticulture basics, integrated pest management/problem diagnosis, and growing and caring for edible and landscape plants. Gardening experience is helpful but not required.
Application Requirements:
- Be a current resident of Alameda County
- Be at least 18 years of age
Fees:
A $310 non-refundable tuition fee is due upon acceptance into the program. A limited number of needs-based scholarships are available.
Background Check:
As required by the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE), all volunteers must undergo a background check that includes Live Scan fingerprinting.
Volunteering as a UC Master Gardener
After completing the training program, UC Master Gardeners are required to perform 50 hours of volunteer work in their first year and then 25 hours each year after that. After their first year, they must complete 12 hours of continuing education annually.
Master Gardeners can be found volunteering on a number of projects including:
- Answering questions at our Help Desk or community events
- Mentoring and supporting school gardens
- Maintaining demonstration gardens
- Educating the public on gardening practices at demonstration gardens, community events, and libraries
- Promoting the UC Master Gardener program
- Creating educational content for the website and online channels
- And much more!
If you have any questions, you can contact us at MGPAlameda@ucanr.edu.