Become a UC Master Gardener:
Share Your Passion for Gardening!
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Do you have a passion for gardening and a desire to share your knowledge with others? Become a UC Master Gardener!
Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, united by a love of horticulture, a commitment to the environment, and a desire to empower home gardeners. The UC Master Gardeners of Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties are a dedicated team of over 100 volunteers who create and deliver a wide array of educational programs in our community. We find joy in developing engaging activities, building camaraderie with fellow volunteers, and seeing the positive impact of our work as gardeners gain new skills and knowledge.
If you're looking for a rewarding way to give back to your community and deepen your own gardening expertise, we invite you to apply for our upcoming training program, starting in January 2026.
What it Means to be a UC Master Gardener
UC Master Gardeners are dedicated volunteers who share their gardening expertise through community outreach and educational programs. We ask our Master Gardeners to commit to:
- 50 volunteer hours on approved programs during your first year, and 25 hours annually thereafter.
- 12 hours of continuing horticultural education each year to stay up-to-date on best practices.
- In return for your commitment, you'll receive comprehensive training and the chance to connect with a passionate community of gardeners.
Comprehensive Training Program
Our rigorous training program prepares you to confidently share your knowledge. You'll delve into topics like:
- Botany
- Composting
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
- Soils
- Water Management
- Entomology
- Plant Pathology
- Fruit and Ornamental Tree Culture
- Sustainable Landscape Practices
Classes are held every other year, from January through May, on Saturdays (excluding holidays) from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM in Santa Cruz County or Salinas. Expect to dedicate an additional 3-4 hours per week outside of class for reading and homework.
Ready to Join Us? Apply Today!
The application period for our 2026 UC Master Gardener Training Cohort is open from August 1st to September 30th.
Application Requirements:
To be considered for the program, please ensure you meet the following criteria:
- Reside in Monterey, San Benito, or Santa Cruz County;
- Possess prior gardening experience and a passion for sharing your knowledge;
- Submit a complete application;
- Attend a mandatory 1-hour orientation session. You will receive an invitation to available sessions after submitting your application;
- Participate in a selection interview in October (if invited).
Program Requirements Upon Acceptance:
Successful applicants will be asked to complete the following:
- Pay a one-time class materials fee at the first class. (Limited scholarships are available);
- Pass a fingerprint background check;
- Attend all 15 weeks of classes, with no more than one unexcused absence;
- Complete all required reading, projects, and assignments;
- Successfully pass the final exam;
- We're a small but mighty all-volunteer group, making a real difference in our community.
We'd love for you to join us!
Questions or Scholarship Inquiries? Please contact our class management team at classmanagement@ucmgmb.org.