Join Us!
Applications are accepted annually, August 1 through October 1
- Learn research-based best practices
- Grow your horticulture skills
- Share your gardening knowledge with others
Would you like to be contacted when we begin accepting applications?
Who can be a Master Gardener Volunteer?
You can! We’re looking for volunteers who like to learn, grow and share. Master Gardener volunteers are committed to providing the highest quality, research-based horticultural information and educational activities that enhance our community’s environment and quality of life.
Master Gardeners come from all walks of life – we are artists, teachers, chemists and more!
How to join:
Applications are accepted from Aug. 1 through Oct. 1. Next, volunteers in Washington County interview candidates to explain the program and the registration process. Then, new members complete a core course online taught by University faculty and Extension educators. The online course is self-paced beginning in January and it ends in April.
During the “internship” year, new members are paired with a mentor and will volunteer a minimum of 50 hours of volunteering with garden and education activities.
Upon completing the internship year, volunteers contribute their time teaching research-based horticulture practices in their communities. Volunteers complete at least 25 hours of volunteering and must complete continuing education hours annually to maintain membership. Monthly meetings feature guest speakers for continuing education credit, followed by a brief business meeting.