Apply to become a Master Gardener

Do you love to garden?

Interested in Becoming a Master Gardener?

If you love gardening and enjoy sharing your knowledge with others, the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR), Fresno County, Master Gardener program might be for you.

Master Gardeners are volunteers that have been trained to educate the public on science-based sustainable gardening practices.

We are a part of the University of California Cooperative Extension and provide a link between the University and our community.

We are committed to educating the public on best practices in home horticulture, sustainable landscaping and pest management.

Application process to become a Master Gardener

Master Gardener Training Classes are offered on odd numbered years. Preparations have begun for the 2025 Training Classes.
We will hold two informational meet and greet sessions for those interested in joining the program and becoming Master Gardener volunteers:

May 4, 2024 at Woodward Park Library (944 E Perrin Ave Fresno) from 10:00-11:30

June 1, 2024 at our demonstration garden-Garden of the Sun(1750 N Winery, Fresno) from 10:00-11:30

Registration link for these sessions

The application period will open June 1, 2024 and run through August 31, 2024.

If you have any questions about the application process contact our helpline:mgfresno@ucanr.edu.

This year's applicants will be invited to Meet the Master Gardeners, a mandatory meeting at the Garden of the Sun in September. Applicants will schedule interview appointments at that time.

Applicants must demonstrate effective communication skills, the ability to work with the public, willingness and ability to fulfill volunteer hours.

If you are accepted into the UC Master Gardener 2025 training class you will be enrolled in weekly training classes beginning January 2025 and running through April. There is a tuition fee of $250. Partial scholarships are available. For working with the public, the UC requires that trainees be fingerprinted and pass a background check.

New Master Gardeners are required to contribute 50 hours of hands on training during the first 18 months of service. In subsequent years, Master Gardeners are required to contribute 25 hours of volunteer service and 12 hours of continuing education. Continuing education opportunities are provided through the program.

Any other questions about the UC Master Gardener Program of Fresno County? Contact us by email at mgfresno@ucanr.edu

The Training Process

Prospective Master Gardeners complete a 16-week training course, pass a final exam, and complete a 50 hour requirement of hands-on training during the first 12 months.

Weekly classes are taught by University of California Cooperative Extension advisers, horticultural specialists, Master Gardeners and community experts.

Trainees are expected to attend all classes. Only one absence is permitted and it must be made up.

Topics will include plant science, soil and plant nutrition, water and fertilizer management, pest identification and management, vegetable gardening, plant disease and diagnosis, and much more.Trainees will be assigned a Master Gardener mentor who will support and assist them throughout the training.

Any other questions about the UC Master Gardener Program of Fresno County? Contact us by email at mgfresno@ucanr.edu

The Master Gardeners Program

The Master Gardener concept originated in 1972 in Washington State.

With a growing interest in home gardening and an increase in the volume of research-based information available, a group of university extension advisers sought a better way to disseminate information to the public. Thus, the Master Gardener Program was born. Introduced in California in 1979, with pilot programs in Riverside and Sacramento counties, there are now over 40 Master Gardener Programs in California.

If you have additional questions about the the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR) Master Gardener program in Fresno County, email the helpline at mgfresno@ucanr.edu.