How the Master Gardener training works
The OSU Master Gardener Program trains volunteers to share research-based gardening information with their communities. If you love learning about plants and want to help others grow, this program offers a structured, hands-on pathway into volunteer service.
What the training includes
Master Gardener training has two core components:
1. Classroom learning
You’ll receive approximately 40 hours of instruction from OSU Extension faculty, specialists, and certified Master Gardeners. Topics typically include soils, composting, botany, insects and plant diseases, weed ID, vegetable and fruit gardening, pollinators, waterwise landscaping, Firewise gardening, and more.
2. Experiential learning / volunteer service
After classroom learning, trainees complete about 40 hours of hands-on volunteer service. This includes time at the OSU Demonstration Garden and a variety of community outreach activities. These experiences help you practice what you’ve learned while supporting the gardening needs of Central Oregon communities.
Becoming a Certified Master Gardener
To become certified, trainees complete both classroom learning and experiential volunteer hours. After certification, volunteers recertify annually to remain active in the program.
Who should apply
The program is ideal for people who:
- Enjoy learning about plants and sustainable gardening
- Want to volunteer in Crook, Deschutes, or Jefferson Counties
- Are able to commit to both the training and volunteer service
If you’re not able to volunteer at this time, OSU Extension also offers gardening classes and workshops open to the public throughout the year.
Stay informed
We offer training once per year. You can:
- Apply when applications are open, or
- Join our email list to be notified when the next training cycle begins.
