How to Become a UC Master Gardener
The first step is to fill out our interest form survey. Enter your contact information in our UC Master Gardener Training Interest Survey and we will contact you when the application process begins for the next training in your county. If you are in the Tahoe area, be sure to choose the El Dorado- Tahoe Basin Area for your county.
UC Master Gardener Training Interest Survey
What are the Benefits of Becoming a UC Master Gardener?
- Contribute to your community — every year UC 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 is Included in the UC Master Gardener Training?
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
Who Can Apply to Become a UC Master Gardener?
Any county resident with an interest in public service and horticulture may apply for the UC 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
- Businesspeople
- Retirees
- Homemakers
- Students
All have some experience and knowledge of plants and gardening. Master Gardener applicants must be enthusiastic, willing to learn and help others through volunteering, and able to communicate with diverse groups of people.
Want to Learn More about the UC Master Gardener Volunteer Position?
County Training Schedule
Master Gardener Training classes are taught in different counties each year throughout the Central Sierra region. Trainees may attend the training program in a different county than their home county. Classes for the four counties are tentatively scheduled as follows:
- Amador: 2026
- Calaveras:2025
- El Dorado: 2026
- Lake Tahoe: 2026
- Tuolumne: 2025