What is the Master Gardener Program?

The Master Gardener Program was first started by the in the Washington State Cooperative Extension Service in 1972. It grew out of a need to meet an enormous increase in requests from home gardeners for horticultural information. Master Gardeners have become a vital part of Extension's ability to provide consumers with up-to-date, reliable information. Master Gardening has also given its participants a sense of community spirit, accomplishment and intellectual stimulation.




How does the program work?

Cooperative Extension staff, State Extension Specialists, and local gardening professionals teach a series of classes to train volunteers in research-based home horticulture practices. There are approximately 24 hours of class time over a several week period, with additional time spent studying on your own. Classroom participation enhances your educational experience as students are encouraged to network and share their own experiences, thereby also learning from each other. There is a fee to offset program operating expenses. Upon completion of your training, you will receive a certificate and be asked to volunteer community service time through the Montana State University Extension Service.

What is a "Volunteer Commitment"?

Upon completion of your training, you will meet with the program coordinator to discuss your talents and the needs of Cooperative Extension. You will choose a volunteer placement that will best utilize your knowledge and skills while helping Extension to meet community needs.

Montana's Master Gardeners are trained in the following areas:

Plant Nomenclature
Plant Growth and Development
Soil Science
Plant Nutrition
Lawns

In addition, you will get training in several of the following areas:

When can I use the title "Master Gardener"?

You will receive the title "Master Gardener" upon completion of the program.

What are some "Volunteer Placements"?

Return to regular view	Text-only	Updated: 4/23/08