Becoming a UCCE Master Gardener

HOW TO BECOME A MASTER GARDENER

Select your county, below on the right, to get more information on applying to their Master Gardener training program.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BEING A MASTER GARDENER?

• Contribute to your community — every year Master Gardeners 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.

WHAT TRAINING IS PROVIDED TO A MASTER GARDENER?

Master Gardeners are given an intensive 4 month, 60+ hour training program in horticulture. Instruction provides practical courses in

• plant science and horticulture
• soil and water management
• pest identification and management
• plant selection and care
• environmentally sound garden practices

Classes meet weekly, with outside study and training activities in addition to class time. A final examination reviews course materials and prepares the trainee to begin their first year.

WHO ARE THE INSTRUCTORS?

• Experts in their fields
• University of California faculty and staff
• Landscape and nursery professionals
• Knowledgeable local horticulture educators

WHAT KIND OF PEOPLE BECOME MASTER GARDENERS?

Any county resident with an interest in public service and horticulture may apply for the Master Gardener program in their county. Master Gardeners are all ages and from all walks of life. Some are new to the county, others have lived (and gardened) here for many, many years. They include

• professionals
• educators
• business people
• retirees
• homemakers
• students

All have some experience and knowledge of plants and gardening. Master Gardeners must be enthusiastic, willing to learn and help others, and able to communicate with diverse groups of people.