How to Join
Quick facts about becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer
- Applications open: October 1st to December 3rd, 2019
- Investment: $150
- Class dates: Mar. 5 –Jun. 25, 2020 (about 70 hours).
- Volunteer service: 45 hours by Oct. 31, 2020
Curious but not sure what to expect?
- NEW! Compare courses and see 2020 schedule
- Read on for program overview.
- Sign up for The Valley Gardener free eNewsletter to find gardening resources that work for you and be notified when Master Gardener applications start.
- Join us for an event or class. Many are FREE or low cost.
- Find us on Facebook or Instagram to see what Master Gardeners do!
“I decided to become a Master Gardener because I have a passion for growing food and I want to teach people with limited access to fresh, organic produce the skills to grow their own. This process has been everything that I hoped Master Gardening would be.”
--Emily Herb, Master Gardener Volunteer.
Photo courtesy of Emily Herb
"Becoming a certified Master Gardener allows me to realize one of my values, community activism, which is built into the program."
-- Pashalle Johnson, Master Gardener Volunteer
Photo courtesy of Pashalle Johnson
“Being a part of the gardening community was like finding my way home. I have loved every minute of being a Master Gardener. Giving back to the community through public service is the core of the program and is personally rewarding.”
– Paula Lupcho, Master Gardener Volunteer
Courtesy of Paula Lupcho
Steps to becoming an Extension Master Gardener
- Be selected to participate in the Master Gardener course. Applications open: October 1st to December 3rd, 2019
- Complete the Extension Master Gardener course. Class dates: Mar. 5 –Jun. 25, 2020 (about 70 hours)
- Share your knowledge
- Volunteer service: 45 hours by Oct. 31, 2020
- Volunteer on projects and events that deliver horticulture education and information to the public.
- Volunteer and learn alongside experienced Extension Master Gardener volunteer mentors.
- Celebrate!
- When your time as a trainee is completed, you'll start the next calendar year as an active Oregon State University Extension Master Gardener in your community.
- Stay involved
- To maintain your active Extension Master Gardener volunteer status, complete requirements for volunteering and continuing education each year.
