Master Gardener Program

What is a Master Gardener?

Master Gardeners receive intensive training provided by OSU Extension faculty, outside professionals and experienced Master Gardeners.

They then spend 66 hours of volunteer time in the extension office answering questions and at community gardening events.

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Training Topics

botany basics
soil management
plant nutrition
pest identification and control
diagnosis of plant problems
growing vegetables
lawns
fruit trees
...and more

How do I become a Master Gardener?

To become a Master Gardener, you must complete 66 hours of training and 66 hours of volunteer service. Training is one day each week for 11 consecutive weeks starting in January. We are no longer accepting applications for the 2013 Master Gardener Program. If you would like to apply for next year, please call the Extension Office of Benton County at 541-766-6750 or fill out our online interest form.

Applications are accepted from October until early-December. A required orientation session is held early December at the Benton County Extension office. Acceptance letters are mailed in mid December. After which time successful applicants pay for the class and pick up their training handbook.

This year doesn't work for me, What can I do while I wait?

We encourage all interested participants to attend gardening workshops and events to increase their knowledge while waiting for the class to be offered each year. View our gardening opportunities!

How long can I be a Master Gardener?

Master Gardeners can remain actively involved as long as they wish. Recertification is required if they participate in garden clinics, but is not required to participate in Master Gardener activities. To maintain the Certified Master Gardener title each Master Gardener volunteer must donate a minimum of 10 hours in educational outreach and complete 6 hours of advanced training annually.

More information

call 541-766-6750 or 1-800-365-0201.