Become a Master Gardener volunteer

Who are Master Gardener volunteers?

• Master Gardeners have diverse experiences and are in most Minnesota communities.
• They share gardening best practices that promote healthy landscapes, healthy foods and healthy lives.
• They receive extensive online training and have opportunities to engage with University of Minnesota Extension educators and faculty.

Important dates and deadlines

• August 1: Application available
• October 1: Application deadline
• January: Self-paced, online Horticulture Core Course begins
• December 31: Final day to complete the core course

Steps to become an Extension Master Gardener volunteer

1. Apply for a Master Gardener internship

• You must be at least 18 years old to be a Master Gardener volunteer.
• Complete and submit the online application by October 1.
• Meet with your county program leaders to discuss program details and expectations.
• Complete a background check and the University of Minnesota’s Safety of Minors training. Directions will be provided. 
• Upon completing the background check and Safety of Minors training, you will receive instructions to register for the Core Course. 
  • The Core Course fee is $340 (or $399 with an optional printed Companion Guide).
  • Limited funds are available for those who need financial help. See details in the application.
  • The fee includes the background check, a branded t-shirt and name badge, and Core Course access.
  • Registration is due by December 1.
  • If you cancel registration by December 15 a partial refund of $200 will be given. Refunds will not be given after this date.

2. Complete the online Extension Master Gardener Core Course

Core Course details:

• It takes 40-60 hours to complete and is offered annually.
• It is online and is available from January to December.
• Includes optional weekly live Zoom Q&A sessions on Tuesday evenings from January to April with University of Minnesota experts. Sessions are recorded.
• Taught by University of Minnesota Extension educators and faculty.
• You must have a personal email address and a reliable internet connection to access the materials and complete training.
• You must complete online quizzes for the final Master Gardener Volunteer certification.
• Topics:
  • inclusive volunteering
  • botany and horticulture
  • soils, composting and fertilizers
  • integrated pest management
  • plant pathology
  • entomology
  • growing fruits and vegetables
  • herbaceous and woody ornamental plants
  • lawns
  • weeds
  • indoor plants and propagation
  • living with wildlife
  • plant diagnostics
  • community engagement

3. Share your knowledge

During your internship year, complete 50 hours of volunteering as you share horticulture information and engage your community. 

4. Stay involved

To maintain your active status, you will complete at least 25 hours of volunteering and 5 hours of continuing education hours per year.

Questions?

Contact us at [email protected].

Having trouble with the online application? Contact [email protected].

Interested in the Horticulture Core Course, but unable to volunteer? 

A modified version of the course is available to the general public and may count toward continuing education for horticulture industry professionals. See the ProHort course page for more information and to register. Class fee: $695 (includes class materials).