To become a Master Gardener, you need to complete the Master Gardener training class, successfully pass a written test, and fulfill the requirement for volunteer hours.
Shasta Master Gardener Training Class
The Shasta Master Gardener program is part of a statewide program under the direction of the University of California Cooperative Extension and is coordinated locally through Shasta College.
The training class covers integrated pest management, pruning, plant diseases, growing vegetables, native plants, plant identification, irrigation and more. You will learn a lot from this class whether you are new to gardening or have been gardening for many years.
The Shasta Master Gardener training class is taught during the Fall semester at Shasta College. The class starts in mid-August and continues through late November, meeting once per week in the evening, as well as a few Saturday sessions. There are no prerequisites for this course and it is currently optional to attend in-person or via Zoom. The class can fill up quickly, so it is important to register early.
You can register for the 3-unit course through the Shasta College website: https://www.shastacollege.edu/ Check with Shasta College to determine the current cost for the class.
When searching for the course using the online catalog, make sure to select the appropriate term (e.g., Fall 2026). The course number is AGEH-60, Master Gardener Training. (Under Courses and Sections, select the course code option-AGEH and in the next box type in the course number 60. Then hit the Search button at the bottom of the screen. If you plan to attend in-person at Shasta College, sign up for AGEH-60-F9074. If you plan to attend via Zoom, sign up for AGEH-60-F9075.)
For more information on registration, contact the Shasta College Admissions Office at: 530-242-7650 or admissions@shastacollege.edu or the course instructor: Leimone Waite at: (530) 242-2210.
Master Gardeners in Service
After completion of the training class, first year Master Gardener candidates must complete 50 hours of volunteer work. Maintaining the Master Gardener certification in subsequent years requires 25 hours of volunteer work, as well as 12 hours of continuing education per year.
Master Gardeners provide community service related to gardening through a variety of projects. Projects and volunteer needs are discussed during general membership meetings that are held monthly (except July and August). The general meetings typically feature guest speakers to discuss various garden topics. Volunteer projects include community workshops, gardening assistance to schools, responding to gardening questions from the community at the farmer’s market and helpline, and maintenance of various community gardens.
Continuing education hours can be obtained by attending presentations at the general meetings, Master Gardener trainings and workshops, and/or other appropriate training courses available in-person and online.