Become a Master Gardener
Applications for Master Gardener Training - WAITLIST
Are you passionate about the idea of serving your community as a garden educator? Reliable, accessible, and personalized gardening guidance is needed now more than ever!
OSU Extension Master Gardeners serve their community as on-the-ground researchers, with solid training in science-based, sustainable gardening and a love of lifelong learning.
There are no prerequisites to participate in this course, although a basic understanding of plants is helpful.
Read on to see if this opportunity would be a good fit for you
Master Gardener volunteers receive comprehensive, university-level gardening education. The training requires 40 hours of volunteer service in the first year then 20 hours volunteer service and 10 hours of continuing education per year, thereafter.
We’ve found that many applicants are so excited about joining the program that they don’t fully consider the number of hours that are required during the training year (80+ of class and volunteering hours between February 15 -October 31, 2025). It’s understandable - it’s an amazing program - but please think about what’s realistic given your own personal circumstances!
In addition, please note the following:
- You will need a desktop or laptop computer with internet access.
- You will need one of the following accounts to both register for and set up/log onto our online platform where online lessons are housed: Google or Microsoft.
- Our primary communication method is email. There may be multiple emails each week, so you should be able to check email on a regular and timely basis.
Can't commit to volunteering but want to expand your gardening knowledge? Explore other Oregon State University options.
Program capacity
Due to high demand and limited capacity, not all applicants can be accepted into the 2025 Master Gardener Training Program. There are 40 trainee slots available in 2025. If you are not accepted this year, please consider applying again next year.
Key dates for 2025
- Applications close: January 13
- Status email sent by: January 20
- Payment due: February 3
- In-person classes each Tuesday afternoon (1-4 pm) February 18 - April 15 (no class 3/25) in Salem
- Deadline to complete online course/take quizzes: April 30
- Deadline to complete 40 hours of community volunteer service: October 31
Training course components
The 2025 Master Gardener Training Program has three main components:
- In-person classes. These required in-person classes will encourage you to dive deeper and start getting connected with other program participants.
- Online learning modules are taught by OSU experts and provide fundamental horticulture knowledge. The modules include videos, readings, and quizzes on all aspects of sustainable gardening. There are 1-2 modules per week done at your own pace.
- Volunteer hours are the third key learning experience to become an OSU Master Gardener volunteer. We require 40 hours of volunteer service in your initial program year. All volunteer experiences are carefully selected to help you learn and connect with the community. The Marion County Master Gardener Association (MCMGA) is OSU’s partner in offering volunteer experiences in support of the Master Gardener Program.
PREVIEW THE CLASS AND VOLUNTEERING REQUIREMENTS
Cost
Payment is made via bank or credit card through a secure online payment system once your application for the program has been accepted. Payment options include:
- Regular price of $150
- Reduced fee of $100
- “Pay It Forward” of $200 (helps fund reduced fee applicants)
Fee covers: electronic version of the textbook, teaching supplies, hospitality supplies, and graduation swag. A printed version of the textbook can be purchased for an additional $40.
Refund Policy
100% refund before 2/10
75% refund starting 2/10
No refunds after 2/19
Eligibility requirements
Age
Applicants must be 18 years or older.
Residency
Applicants must reside in Marion County, Oregon.
Commitment to growing and belonging
OSU Extension serves the general public, consisting of diverse people (in terms of ethnicity, class, culture, language, sexual orientation and disabilities). To ensure equitable access to educational programs, becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer requires participation in training for creating an environment of belonging and growth. Learn more about the program including our mission, vision, values and program priorities.
Accommodations
If you need any accommodations for this course or if there is any way we can make this course more accessible to you, please reach out to Brooke Edmunds ([email protected]). She will be happy to discuss options with you and work to come up with a solution that is appropriate for you.
Questions about the program?
Brooke Edmunds, OSU Extension Horticulture Faculty,[email protected]
